FAQ
Q - I am planning a new kitchen/bathroom/fitted bedroom etc. When should I have the plastering carried out?
A - It is crucial that we programme the plastering around your installation. The existing fittings (if any) should be removed and the plaster work carried out while the room is empty. This ensures the best possible finish and elimiates the possibility of damage to your new installation. If you haven't finalised a contractor for your installation works please contact us and we can arrange this through our network of suppliers.
Q - I have textured coatings on my walls/ceilings. How do I remove these?
A - Artex or textured coatings are easily rectified. Artex installed pre 1985 may have a minimal Asbestos content. It is standard practice for most plasterers to scrape the rough bits off prior to plastering. This can only be done if there is no Asbestos present. Ayrshire Plastering Services can easily arrange to have a sample taken and tested for Asbestos. If it is negative then we may scrape it if necessary and apply 2 to 3 coats of plaster to achieve the desired finish. Should it contain Asbestos then it cannot be disturbed in any way or the Asbestos fibres may become airborne and potentially harmful. In this instance we can simply plaster over the Artex without disturbing it (additional coats may be required) or overboard it with plasterboard (where suitable). Please contact us to arrange an estimate and discuss your requirements.
Q - Once my plastering has been completed, when can I paint it?
A - This depends on a variety of factors - ambient temperature, air flow, ventilation etc. Skim coats generally dry within days. Backing coats and renovating plasters take much longer, some of which may appear dry on the surface but are still wet underneath. Please contact us for best advice.
Q - Now that my plastering is complete, I can see metal/plastic profiles around my external corners. Can these be painted?
A - Yes. The metal/plastic profiles you can see are simply corner beads that are used to form a rigid external corner. They are easily painted over.
Q - When I'm ready to paint my plasterwork, do I have to prime it prior to painting?
A - There are primer products available but these can often be expensive and unnecessary (depends on the application). In general, a good quality emulsion used neat is sufficient to cover the plaster in 2 to 3 coats. Please contact us for best advice on your application.
Q - Do I have to empty the room prior to plastering or can you work round my furniture?
A - It is imperative that rooms are completely clear prior to work commencing. This ensures a better finish and eliminates the risk of damage to your property.
Q - Can you plaster around my central heating radiators?
A - Although it is possible to do this it is not best practice. Radiators should be removed prior to work commencing, thus ensuring a better finish and if the radiator is relocated at a later date then no further plastering will be required, saving you money in the process. We can also arrange to have your radiators removed and re-installed. Please contact us for details.
Q - Can you plaster around my sockets and switch plates?
A - Although it is possible to do this it is not best practice as it poses a health and safety risk, not to mention that it is much more awkward to work around these and may compromise the finish. It is best to have all the sockets and switch plates etc. removed prior to plastering commencing and re-fitted once decorating is complete. Please contact us and we can arrange for a qualified electrician to carry this out on your behalf.
Q - Do I have to lift my carpet(s) in order to have the room plastered?
A - Whilst it is beneficial that the carpet is removed it is not necessary. Ayrshire Plastering Services prides itself on our attention to detail. We will ensure that any floor coverings are very well protected using waterproof coverings prior to work commencing and upon completion the room will be left spotless.
Q - I think I may have dampness in my property. What should I do?
A - Dampness may be caused by several factors. Simply contact us to arrange to have a survey carried out by a fully qualified CSRT Surveyor (Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatment). This also applies for timber treatment, basement and cellar conversions.
Q - What is Polished Plaster , Stucco Plaster?
A - Polished Plaster is a smooth shiny plaster made from Lime putty and Carrara marble powders. It is a natural Lime based plaster that requires a specialist application.
Q - Where does Polished Plaster, Stucco come from?
A - The Polished Plaster that Goldtrowel supplies comes from Stucco Italiano in Italy. This is now a global brand supplying Polished Finishes to homes and businesses all over the world.
Q - Why are there different terms for Polished Plasters?
A - Many refer to it as Marmorino, Venetian Plaster, Stucco, Lucidato, Spatulata, Veneziano plus others. These terms can mean the same style of product or something very different depending on how companies brand their product. Always request a sample to ensure you know which Polished Plaster you are getting.
Q - What do Polished Plasters look like?
A - The finest Polished Plaster ( Classic Marmorino ) is very smooth and cold to the touch. It has a reflective sheen. The textures vary greatly depending on the product and style you require. Our Carrara Marmorino has a matt like shine while the Intonachino and Dilavato have textured surfaces. The Chamois / Velvet Marmorino is truly unique with a gentle soft sheen while being very fine in texture.
Q - What colours can you provide?
A - We have a standard colour range and can custom colour the products.
Q - Where can I use Polished Plasters?
A - Polished Plaster works well in both domestic and commercial settings. In domestic setting we use our finishes on feature walls, bathrooms and kitchens. In commercial projects we use them in boardrooms, reception areas, restaurants, bars and hotels.
Q - Can we create something unique?
A - Yes, we specialise in working with customers to create bespoke finishes. We can even use stencils to imprint designs into or raised out on the surface of the finishes. Please contact us with your ideas as we love a challenge.
Q - Can you apply Polished Plaster to my Ceilings Walls and Bathrooms?
A - We can apply the Venetian Marble Polished Plaster, Stucco on most Bathrooms, Walls and Ceilings. However, all traces of wall paper need to be removed.
Q - How long will Polished Plaster Last?
A - In Italy there are many examples of Marmorino on the exterior of the buildings. Therefore in modern buildings if the substrate is suitable the finish should out live the applicator.