Lime plaster's durability is perhaps the number one reason homeowners and builders use it on ceilings. With proper care, a lime plaster ceiling can last many decades and still perform efficiently. However, as a plaster ceiling ages and wears over time, repairs become necessary, mainly because complete replacement is quite expensive. This article highlights techniques that builders use to salvage and reattach worn-out plaster ceilings.

Patch Repairs -- Plaster ceiling damage leading to aesthetic flaws or cracks is best addressed with patch repairs. Often, the movement of ceiling components is to blame for patch damages. Notably, patch repairs involve the application of filler on affected spots of ceiling plasterboard. However, you must evaluate whether you can achieve a smooth and consistent finish before beginning patch repairs. The reason is that some damage might call for re-skimming the entire plasterboard. Most importantly, choose a patch repair system that allows you to consolidate lime-lath plaster and the aging lime plaster.

Re-Skimming -- As mentioned earlier, plaster ceilings lose their aesthetics over time due to prolonged exposure to moisture, dust and dirt. When it happens, it is time to give your ceiling some TLC by re-skimming. Notably, skimming or skim plastering is considered the ultimate makeover for a worn-out ceiling, and it does an excellent job at concealing lumps and bumps. When done correctly, re-skimming restores a ceiling's smooth and even surface for subsequent decoration. That said, you must select the correct primer to ensure that the new plaster bonds well with the old one. Besides, the primer you choose must also match the old plaster for optimal performance. For example, if your ceiling is made of lime plaster, stay away from an acrylic primer because it deprives a ceiling of its breathability.

Ceiling Keys Repair -- Imagine sitting in your living room only for the plaster ceiling to come crashing down unexpectedly. It is precisely what happens when the lath and plasterboard gradually detach from the wooden or hessian supports. Unfortunately, most homeowners fail to act on time after noticing signs of a detached lath and plasterboard. Notably, professional roofers advise homeowners to watch out for sagging plasterboard ceilings since it is one of the most apparent signs of a detached lath. In this case, it is mandatory to repair the keys, which involves reinforcing and stabilising the wooden support structure. Reinforcement of the hidden support structure is followed by re-bonding the plasterwork.

Reach out to a professional for plaster ceiling repairs.