Plastering Walls Faster: The Power of Plaster Accelerators

Plastering walls can take longer than you'd like and slow down your workflow. By using a plaster accelerator, you can control setting times to match the needs of your project.

According to a 2022 construction industry survey by Cornerstone Projects LTD, 91% of respondents had been part of a project that experienced delays.

Many professional plasterers and DIYers find delays frustrating. Improving plastering efficiency with solutions like a plaster accelerator will help you complete more projects quickly.

What Are the 7 Stages of Plastering?

Plastering may seem like a single step, but it involves several stages. Each plays a big role in ensuring the wall is smooth and ready for paint or decoration.

1. Wall Preparation and Priming

All plastering projects start with good preparation.

The surface should be clean and dust-free. Remove loose plaster, fix damp, make good any defects.

Bonding plaster should also be used to fill out any areas to create a flat smooth surface to be plastered with finish plaster.

Fit beads, tape joints and protect floors/fittings.

Applying a pre-grit, SBR or PVA to the substrate will help to control suction and ensure the finished plastered wall is to a high professional standard.

Skipping preparation can cause issues with the finished plastered surface.

2. Mixing

Mix the chosen finish plaster to the manufacturer’s water ratio and mixing guidance. Use small, workable loads and follow stated pot and setting times.

If using additives such as Halftime Plaster Accelerator mix the additives thoroughly in clean water before mixing in the plaster. Mix until the plaster is smooth and creamy in consistency.

3. First Coat

Apply the first coat to create a sound, even base and to embed tape/angle beads. This is generally the thicker undercoat that brings the wall up to near final level. It is generally recommended to mix for each coat, however for some fast-setting finishes a single mix for both coats is recommended (see manufacture’s product guidance).

4. Second Coat (finish coat / smoothing)

Apply the finishing coat to achieve the final surface—thin, trowel-applied, ruled off and filled as required. Work times depend on the product and conditions; finish while the plaster is firm but not fully dry.

5. Floating / polishing / final finish

When the plaster firms, smooth and polish the surface to the required finish (trowel or sponge technique depending on the product). Some finishing plasters are designed for a single skim or a two-coat approach — follow the specific installation guide.

6. Troweling and Polishing

After applying both skim coats, start the trowelling and polishing process. Glide over the wall, pressing lightly to smooth out lines and prepare your wall for painting.

7. Curing, inspection & cleaning

Allow appropriate setting/drying times before decorating. Clean tools and equipment immediately after use (Manufacturers highlight cleaning as part of best practice). Inspect for pinholes, hollows or imperfections and make good if necessary.

How Many Days After Plastering Can I Paint?

Most common plasters need about four to six days to fully dry or cure before painting, however the specific timeline depends on various factors such as:

• Thickness of the plaster

• Room temperature

• Ventilation

  
  

Using plaster accelerators will reduce your waiting times significantly. You'll enjoy faster turnarounds from your professional plastering jobs without compromising quality.

Achieve Accelerated Setting Time With Halftime Plaster Accelerator

Eazymix offers an outstanding solution to help experts and DIY plasterers be more efficient. Halftime Plaster Accelerator shortens the setting time by up to 60 minutes.

The exact results you'll get may vary depending on the relative humidity of your working environment.

Halftime Plaster Accelerator delivers faster results without affecting plaster quality. It can help you reduce downtimes and manage a tight work schedule.

The product is also easy to mix since it comes in premeasured sachets. You'll get reliable results with every batch, and you can use the accelerator with any standard finishing plaster.

The Benefits of Plastering Walls Faster

Managing how quickly plaster sets improves your workflow, but it also has other unique benefits. Here are some reasons to use a plaster accelerator during your projects.

Fewer Defects in Your Wall Finish

When plaster dries too fast or too slow, cracks and rough spots may appear. Using solutions like the Halftime Plaster Accelerator gives you more control over your project. You can reduce surface flaws and achieve a smoother, professional-looking wall finish.

Increased Profitability

If you're a professional plasterer, time is money. The faster you finish one project, the sooner you can start another. The Halftime Plaster Accelerator cuts drying times significantly, allowing you to take on more projects and make more money.

Faster Turnaround for Homeowners

If you're doing a DIY project at home, waiting for plaster to set can be frustrating. By using the Halftime Plaster Accelerator, you'll be able to complete the job within a shorter period.

You can resume using your space quickly to avoid extended inconveniences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Paint Directly Onto Fresh Plaster?

No. Painting onto plaster that hasn't dried fully traps moisture and ruins the look of your finished wall. After a while, you may need to scrape off the paint and redo the job.

The safest approach is to let the plaster dry completely before painting. Besides, always check the plaster's colour before moving on to the next step.

Once it turns from a dark shade to a light even one, it's safe to start painting. Taking this precaution will help you avoid wasting money and time redoing your plastering projects.

How Long Does Plaster Last on Walls?

Plaster can last up to 50 years. It is among the most durable wall finishes.

It lasts much longer than many other wall coverings, like wallpaper, which may need refreshing every few years. The long lifespan of plaster comes from its strength and the way it bonds tightly to the wall surface.

Still, the durability will depend on:

• The quality of materials

• Plastering technique used

• Environmental conditions

  
  

Caring for plastered walls also extends their lifespan. Avoid drilling too many holes or exposing walls to heavy moisture.

Does Using an Accelerator Weaken Plaster?

No. If you use professional-grade solutions like Halftime Plaster Accelerator, you won't have to worry about plaster becoming weaker or less durable. The product only improves the setting speed and doesn't affect the strength of the plaster itself.

Take Control of Your Plastering Projects With Eazymix

Plastering walls doesn't have to feel like a battle against time. Get a plaster accelerator to speed up the setting time to match your workflow. Achieve professional-looking results by following each stage of plastering and using high-quality products.

Eazymix offers plastering solutions designed and approved by the trade. All our products are tested by UKAS-accredited laboratories and recommended by City & Guilds.#

Shop today to master your craft and complete projects with confidence.