Featured
Plastering Tips
·
10 May 2026
How to Spot Poor Plastering Before It Becomes a Costly Problem
Bad plastering doesn't always announce itself immediately. A substandard finish can look acceptable on day one — only to crack, bubble or crumble months later. Knowing what to look for early can save you thousands.
The most common red flags include hairline cracks running diagonally from window corners (a sign of improper setting compound), a hollow sound when tapped (indicating delamination from the substrate), uneven sheen under raking light (missed sanding between coats), and visible joins through a painted finish (poor taping technique). Any one of these warrants a closer look from a licensed plasterer before you proceed with painting or tiling.
In Melbourne's climate — with significant temperature swings between seasons — poorly bonded plaster is especially vulnerable. If you're purchasing a property or accepting a builder handover, always check walls in natural raking light, ideally early morning when sunlight angles across the surface.
The most common red flags include hairline cracks running diagonally from window corners (a sign of improper setting compound), a hollow sound when tapped (indicating delamination from the substrate), uneven sheen under raking light (missed sanding between coats), and visible joins through a painted finish (poor taping technique). Any one of these warrants a closer look from a licensed plasterer before you proceed with painting or tiling.
In Melbourne's climate — with significant temperature swings between seasons — poorly bonded plaster is especially vulnerable. If you're purchasing a property or accepting a builder handover, always check walls in natural raking light, ideally early morning when sunlight angles across the surface.
