plasterer

Plasterer is a tradesperson who applies plaster to interior and exterior surfaces, shaping walls, ceilings, and decorative moldings. Plasterers prepare substrates, mix plaster, and apply it in coats to create smooth or textured finishes. They work in new construction, renovations, and restoration projects, often coordinating with carpenters, painters, and masons. Traditional lime plaster remains in use for heritage work, while most contemporary jobs use cement-based or gypsum plasters. Exterior plastering is commonly called stucco in some regions.

Typical techniques include scratch coats, brown coats, and finish coats, as well as skim finishing for ultra-smooth surfaces. Proper curing is essential to minimize cracking. Substrates can include masonry, plasterboard, wood lath, or metal lath, and preparation often requires dampening, cleaning, and applying bonding agents or metal lath.

Tools commonly used are a hawk, trowels (hand and steel), darby, floats, mixer, buckets, and mixing paddles. The plaster is mixed to specific ratios and worked while workable, with the plasterer smoothing and feathering edges to achieve a uniform surface.

Training typically occurs through apprenticeships or vocational programs, with on-the-job instruction and classroom time. Qualifications vary by country; experienced plasterers may specialize in interior plastering, exterior stucco, ornamental plasterwork, or plaster repairs. Union membership or professional associations may provide certifications and continued education.

Safety considerations include respiratory protection when mixing powders, eye protection, gloves, and fall protection when working at height. Handling lime and cement requires knowledge of proper curing, moisture management, and skin and eye safety.