Do you have concrete & plaster walls? Although this material can last for a long time, it does not last forever either. It may need replastering eventually to prevent damaging your walls. If you’re wondering if your walls need replastering, worry not. This article will run you through the common signs that you need to get your walls replastered.
1 – Cracking or Chipping Paint
The paint on your walls is the first layer of protection your walls have, so you may want to look into replastering if the surface of your walls start to show signs of paint chipping and cracking. This is highly evident in exterior plaster and stucco, as they tend to be more exposed to the elements.
From time to time, you may notice the paint on your walls starts to chip or crack when you touch the wall’s surface. Eventually, these cracks and chips will crumble and erode.
When the paint is gone, you are left with bare walls exposed to dirt and the elements. In addition, paint that has started to chip off your walls may start to look unsightly and ugly.
2 – Uneven Surfaces
If the surface of your wall starts to become uneven or not smooth, you may need to replaster your walls to make them smooth again. However, if the uneven surface is due to a concrete wall no longer leaning straight, simply replastering may not solve your problem.
If you have a waving, bent, or curved wall, this will require repair work before getting your wall standing straight again. You can then replaster the wall and keep it smooth again.
3 – Water Damage
When your wall is exposed to water and dampness, it will start to degrade. This is especially common in external walls as when it rains. Moisture tends to splash against your walls and get into the structure.
For internal walls, water damage is usually due to a leaky roof, a power shower left running for some time, or a leaking pipe. Eventually, the water will start to seep through the walls.
In case of leaks, the source of the leak has to be fixed first, and the wall should be allowed to dry entirely before replastering. Otherwise, the plaster may not be as effective and may peel off. You may also have water damage due to flooding in your area.
Here are some tips when replastering a water damaged wall:
- Allow the wall to completely dry.
- Don’t delay the replastering, especially if you start seeing water damage stains on the wall.
- Consider applying a lime plaster to cover stubborn water damage stains.
4 – Mold Growth
Mold growth will appear as a black, green, or dark brown staining on your walls. Plaster walls are cleanable as they are not porous and not a food source for mold. However, mold may also penetrate the back of the plaster and reach the paper backing. The mold will feed on your paint, dust, and the paper backing in the plaster walls.
If you notice mold growth on your walls, you should not try to remove it on your own. This is because the spores from the mold are microscopic allergens that may cause you to get sick. You should leave the mold removal to professionals who have the right tools and knowledge to remove it safely. Replastering these walls can help minimize further damage.
Conclusion
These are just some of the most common reasons you should replaster your walls. Replastering your walls will not only give your home a facelift, but it will also protect your walls from further damage and make your home more attractive. You will save yourself the trouble of repairing your walls and spending money on painting your walls.
Are you thinking of getting your walls replastered? Give it a fresh new look with Venetian plastering in the Northern San Francisco Bay Area. One-Stop Plastering has over 60 years of experience in residential and commercial plastering services. Give us a call to learn more.
