Plastering seems simple—until it goes wrong. Uneven surfaces, cracks, or crumbling walls can turn a quick job into a full redo. Whether you’re patching up a rental or renovating your forever home, a clean plaster finish is key.
At Total Renovations, we handle plastering in Hawke’s Bay every week—and we’ve seen the most common mistakes firsthand. Here’s what to avoid if you want a smooth, durable finish that lasts.
1. Not Prepping the Surface
The mistake: Plastering straight over dust, paint flakes, or greasy walls.
Why it matters: Poor surface prep means poor adhesion. Your plaster might not bond and can start cracking or lifting.
Pro tip: Clean, dry, and seal the wall before plastering. For old brick or concrete, dampen the surface so it doesn’t suck the moisture out of the mix.
2. Mixing It Wrong
The mistake: Guessing your mix ratios.
Why it matters: Too thick and it’s impossible to spread. Too thin and it slides right off. Either way, it’s wasted time and effort.
Pro tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s ratios. If you’re doing your own plastering in Hawke’s Bay, avoid mixing too much at once. Smaller batches give you more control.
3. Over-Troweling
The mistake: Working the same area too much.
Why it matters: You break the surface tension, over-polish it, or worse—end up with gouges.
Pro tip: Let the plaster set slightly before smoothing. Work in passes. Timing is just as important as technique.
4. Using Cheap Tools
The mistake: Trying to do a pro job with a $10 trowel.
Why it matters: Poor tools leave lines, rough spots, and can actually damage your finish.
Pro tip: Use a good quality steel trowel, clean hawk, and reliable mixing paddle. If you’re serious about DIY plastering in Hawke’s Bay, invest in tools once, not twice.
5. Painting Too Soon
The mistake: Rushing to get colour on the walls.
Why it matters: Painting before the plaster fully cures traps moisture, which can lead to bubbling, peeling, or mould.
Pro tip: Let the plaster dry completely—usually 5 to 7 days. Then start with a mist coat before applying your final colour.
6. Not Calling a Pro When You Should
The mistake: Taking on a large or detailed job without the skills.
Why it matters: You’ll waste time, materials, and possibly lower the value of your home.
Pro tip: Know your limits. For larger renovations or if you’re after a flawless finish, hire a qualified team. At Total Renovations, we offer high-quality plastering services across Hawke’s Bay, and we’re used to fixing DIY jobs that didn’t go to plan.
Why Hawke’s Bay Homeowners Choose Us
We know the unique challenges of plastering in Hawke’s Bay—from older villa walls to modern GIB systems. Whether it’s a fresh skim coat, repairs, or prep for painting, we handle it all with precision and care.
If you want it done right the first time, give us a call. We’ll leave your walls smooth, straight, and ready for anything.
Need a quote for plastering in Hawke’s Bay?
Contact Total Renovations today—we’re here to help.