If you are doing any type of remodeling in your home, you have probably run across plaster and plywood. These two items are a common sight in construction, and play an important role in building a wide array of structures. A common question that do-it-yourselfers ask is “can you put plaster over plywood? (how to)” Let’s take a look at whether or not plaster can be applied over plywood.
Plaster doesn’t stick well to a wide array of surfaces, and plywood is one of them. Because wood has a somewhat smooth surface, there is nothing for the plaster to grasp onto. Plaster sticks better to surfaces that are textured or rougher.
Instead, a plasterboard will need to be applied over the plywood and then skim plaster over that. Plasterboard is a common construction and building material. It is a panel that is made from gypsum that is often pressed between a backer and facer.
Some people often wonder if priming the plywood beforehand would work as an alternative to installing plasterboard. Unfortunately, it won’t. Even if you prime the plywood with primer, the plaster will still not stick to the plywood, or any other wood surfaces for that matter.
If you want to correctly complete your project, you will have to install plasterboard over the plywood. You can then put plaster over the plywood.
Should You Put Plaster Over Plywood?
Whether or not you should put plaster over plywood is an important question to ask yourself before you begin the plastering process. Once you have already started the task, you may find yourself trying to scrap off the plaster.
Plaster shouldn’t be put over plywood since it cannot properly adhere to the wood surface. If you do try to plaster a piece of plywood, the material will simply start to fall off the wood. Instead, you will need to cover the plywood with plasterboard first.
Even though experts recommend not putting plaster over plywood, there are still some that refuse to listen and decide they don’t need to take the extra time to install plasterboard. Unfortunately, not heeding their advice will waste your time and possibly your money.
What Tools Do You Need To Put Plaster Over Plywood?
Plaster should never be applied directly over plywood. Because of this, you will need a few additional tools to help you properly get the job done right.
The tools to apply plaster over plywood include plasterboard, plaster hawk, trowel, plaster screws, screwdriver, and speckle knife. You may also need a utility knife and safety goggles. Remember, you cannot apply plaster directly over plywood, which means the plasterboard must first be installed.
Most of these tools are readily available at your local hardware store. They can also be found online from various merchants. You may even have some of these tools in your garage right at this moment.
What Preparations Do You Need To Put Plaster Over Plywood?
Unfortunately, you simply cannot slap some plaster on plywood and call it a day. Instead, you will need to do a bit of preparation if you want to successfully put plaster over plywood.
Before the plaster can be applied to plywood, you must first cover the plywood with plasterboard. Without the plasterboard, the plaster would simply fall off the wood surface. Thankfully, installing plasterboard is a relatively simple task.
If you’re not comfortable installing plasterboard, consider reaching out to a friend or family member who may be able to assist you.
Once the plasterboard has been installed, the plaster can be skimmed onto the surface. Without the plasterboard, the plaster would fall or slide off the plywood.
How To Put Plaster Over Plywood
Applying plaster isn’t a difficult job, but it can be time-consuming. You should also be at least a little familiar with some common building tools. If not, you may want to seek the help of a friend who has installed plasterboard or plywood in the past.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on November 17, 2022.
If you are going to put plaster over plywood, you will first need to cover the plywood with plasterboard. Once the plasterboard has been installed, countersink the screw heads in the plasterboard and then fill the joints. Use metal angle beads around all external corners to create a crisp finish.
Once the plasterboard has been installed and prepped, you can apply the plaster. Use a trowel to lightly apply the plaster to the plasterboard. This is called skimming and you want to cover the entire plasterboard with a light layer of plaster. Refrain from applying the plaster too thick. Use the trowel to help make the plaster layer as smooth as possible.
Once the entire plasterboard is covered, allow the plaster to dry completely before continuing. It can take 1 to 2 weeks for plaster to completely dry. However, this timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including how thick the plaster is and the temperature and humidity of the room.
The plaster can be sanded by hand with sandpaper or with an electrical sander to help make the entire surface smooth. After sanding, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and let dry once again. Keep in mind that sanding will create an abundance of dust. Plaster dust can cause irritation to your respiratory system. Because of this, it is recommended to wear a dust mask when sanding.
Seal the entire plaster surface with plaster sealant. Plaster sealant will create an ideal surface for tile adhesives, paint, and other decorative finishes to adhere to properly. Make sure to read and follow the application instructions found on the plaster sealant label.
While it may be tempting to forgo the “installing plasterboard” step, this is an extremely important part of putting plaster over plywood. Plaster cannot adhere to plywood, which means you are wasting your time and good plaster for nothing. Plaster can, however, stick to the plasterboard. Installing the plasterboard over the plywood beforehand will ensure the plaster properly adheres to the surface.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on November 17, 2022.