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Above, a restored medallion and cornice in a Clinton Hill parlor.
HOW TO SKIM COAT PLASTER
A skilled plasterer can smooth cracked or peeling
plaster walls with a process known as skim coating.
“Preserving nice plaster work, if possible, is always
worth it,” according to Themis Haralabides, president
of design-build firm reBUILD Workshop. “After all, it is
usually one of the reasons people like older houses in
the first place.”
Plasterers typically begin by applying a thin layer of
bonding material such as pink-colored Plaster-Weld,
then a layer of fiberglass mesh, followed by three or
more very thin layers of plaster. The layer of mesh
ensures the plaster does not crack months later.
Prices vary considerably, but typically start at
about what you would pay for an extensive paint
job. A plaster (not drywall) expert can ensure a
fine, smooth, level and durable finish that will
easily take paint or wallpaper.
—C.C.
Photos by Susan De Vries.