The City & Guilds textbook

SAMPLE
MATERIAL

Plastering
LEVEL 1 DIPLOMA (6708)
LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA (6708)
LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE (7908)

Mike Gashe
Kevin Byrne
Hodder Education is working alongside City & Guilds to produce
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The City & Guilds textbook: Plastering

LEVEL 1 DIPLOMA (6708)
LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE (7908) AND DIPLOMA (6708)

Help your learners embark on a career as a specialist plasterer in the

construction industry with this comprehensive new textbook published in
association with City & Guilds.
The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering Mike Gashe 9781398306479 August £34.99
Levels 1 and 2 (7908 and 6708) Kevin Byrne 2020
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The City & Guilds textbook: Painting and Decorating
LEVEL 1 DIPLOMA (6707)
LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE (7907) AND DIPLOMA (6707)

Help your learners brush up on the skills they will need to become a
decorator with this comprehensive new textbook published in association
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The City & Guilds Textbook: Painting and Barrie Yarde 9781398305779 August £34.99
Decorating Levels 1 and 2 (7907 and 6707) Steve Olsen 2020
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Contents
Acknowledgements/picture credits 000
About the authors 000
How to use this book 000

1 Principles of construction 000

2 Health and safety in construction 000

3 Internal plastering and fixing dry lining 000

4 Applying external plain rendering 000

5 Floor screed systems 000

6 Producing, fixing and finishing plain plaster mouldings to

match existing (“Fibrous”) 000

7 Metal frame systems 000

Test your knowledge answers 000

Glossary 000
Index 000

This sample contains selected material only from Chapter 3.

Student’s Book ISBN 9781398306479
© The City & Guilds of London Institute and Hodder & Stoughton Limited 2020
All rights reserved. Apart from any use permitted under UK copyright law, no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any
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system, without permission in writing from the publisher or under licence from the Copyright Licensing Agency Limited. Further details of such
licences (for reprographic reproduction) may be obtained from the Copyright Licensing Agency Limited, www.cla.co.uk
Cover photo © ahavelaar - stock.adobe.com
Table 3.1 1st © Dorling Kindersley Ltd/Alamy Stock Photo, 2nd © Bioraven/stock.adobe.com, 3rd © Gelpi/stock.adobe.com, 4th © City & Guilds,
5th © Stanley Black and Decker, 6th © Stanley Black and Decker, 7th © Alexander/stock.adobe.com, 8th © City & Guilds, 9th © City & Guilds,
10th © Studio Harmony/stock.adobe.com, 11th © ZOM ZOM/stock.adobe.com, 12th © Mike Gashe, 13th © City & Guilds, 14th © Coprid/stock.
adobe.com, 15th © Comugnero Silvana/stock.adobe.com, 16th © Bondarau/stock.adobe.com; Fig 3.2 © Faraktinov/stock.adobe.com; Fig 3.4 © Ros
Crosland/Alamy Stock Photo; Fig 3.5 © Colin Palmer Photography/Alamy Stock Photo; Fig 3.12 © Jfhp/stock.adobe.com; Fig 3.13 © Ungvar/stock.
adobe.com; Table 3.2 1st © City & Guilds, 2nd © pryzmat/Shutterstock.com, 3rd © City & Guilds, 4th © Paul Carstairs/Alamy Stock Photo, 5th
© kzww/Shutterstock.com, 6th © Mike Gashe, 7th © City & Guilds, 8th © Gaia Moments/Alamy Stock Photo; Fig 3.14 © City & Guilds; Fig 3.19 ©
City & Guilds; page 28 Steps 1–10 © City & Guilds; Fig 3.20 © City & Guilds; Fig 3.21 © City & Guilds; Fig 3.22 © Dimedrol68/stock.adobe.com;
page 35 Steps 1–15 © City & Guilds; Fig 3.23 © City & Guilds.

3
Selected pages from Chapter 3

CHAPTER 3
INTERNAL PLASTERING AND FIXING DRY LINING

INTRODUCTION
This chapter covers methods of preparing backgrounds, fixing plasterboards, fixing beads, and mixing and
applying traditional and modern plasters to form and finish one-, two- and three-coat plastering to interior
surfaces ready for decoration, to fulfil the customer’s needs. You will learn about different techniques and
methods required to apply and install internal plastering materials and components to ensure surfaces are
ready for decoration. Learning about different types of plasters and plasterboards and their properties will
help you understand how the performance of modern buildings has evolved over the years to meet greater
demands for thermal, sound, fire, heat and moisture resistance.
You will also learn about traditional and sustainable plastering materials and methods in order to preserve our
heritage within historic buildings. Although modern materials and components are being manufactured, the
skills and techniques of the plasterer are generally still the same when installing and finishing different surfaces.
Before you start to apply plaster you will need to familiarise yourself with the necessary tools. These will be specific
to the job. Don’t forget that looking after your tools and keeping them safe and well-maintained will ensure they
last for a long time.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
The table below shows how the main headings in this chapter cover the learning outcomes for each
qualification specification.
Chapter section Level 1 Diploma in Level 2 Level 2 Apprenticeship
Plastering Diploma in Plastering Technical Certificate Standards for
(6708-13) (6708-23) in Plastering Plasterer (9086)
Units 121, 122, 123, Units 221 and 222 (7908-20) Module 11
124, 125 Unit 202
Tools and equipment Unit 221 Learning Unit 202 Topics 2.2,
outcomes 3 and 4 3.1
Unit 205 Topics 1.5,
3.1
Preparing the Unit 121 Unit 221 Learning Unit 202 Topics 2.1,
background for outcome 5.1 2.3
plastering
Preparing to fix Unit 123 Unit 221 Learning Unit 202 Topics 1.1,
plasterboard outcomes 1 and 2 1.2, 3.2
Unit 222 Learning Unit 205 Topics 1.1,
outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 1.2

4
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Fixing plasterboard by Unit 222 Learning Unit 205 Topics 1.3,

direct bond outcomes 5 and 6 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3
Preparing loose Unit 221 Learning Unit 202 Topic 3.3
plastering materials for outcome 5.2
mixing
Applying plastering Units 122, 124, 125 Unit 221 Learning Unit 202 Topic 3.4
systems outcomes 5.3, 5.4, Unit 205 Topic 3.2
5.5, 6

1 INTERNAL SOLID PLASTERING AND FIXING

DRY LINING
Tools and equipment
 Table 3.1 Tools and equipment

Tool Use

Hawk The plasterer’s hawk is used to hold and transfer a workable amount of plaster from the
spot board to the wall. The hawk is used in conjunction with the trowel to manipulate and
apply the plaster directly on to the background surface. Some plasterers prefer hawks
with detachable handles as they are easier to store.
Hawks were traditionally made from timber, but today modern hawks are made from
polyurethane or aluminium.

Gauging trowel This tool has many purposes and uses within the plastering trade. Its main purpose was
to gauge small quantities of plastering materials. Today, this trowel is used for reaching
into awkward areas where a normal trowel won’t reach.

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Features in the book

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

 Table 3.1 Tools and equipment (Continued)

Tool Use

Bucket trowel Used for cleaning the rim of buckets and can also be used for cleaning and removing
excess material off the straight edge and to clean plaster droppings by scraping the floor.
A bucket trowel is also used to transfer mixed material from the bucket onto the spot
board.

Comb scratcher A comb scratcher can be used to key the surface when you apply a scratch coat in
preparation for the floating coat.

Tin snips Tin snips are used for cutting various types of trims such as angle beads, stops and rolled
EML before it is fixed onto the wall plate. Always wear protective gloves when cutting EML
because it is very sharp.

Spirit level This can be used on its own or with a straight edge, which extends its length. It is used
for plumbing and levelling surfaces such as standard angle beads to window openings
and returns, or for plumbing dots to form accurate screeds when floating.

Float Used for consolidating undercoat surfaces to form either a plain smooth finish or a key,
preparing for the setting coat. These floats are generally made from polyurethane.

6
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

 Table 3.1 Tools and equipment (Continued)

Tool Use

Devil float A devil float is made by nailing tin tacks to one end of a float edge. It is used for devilling
or keying a surface. When making a devil float, space the tin tacks equally and start from
the middle, fixing every 15mm. Use fixings such as galvanised nails: screws will cause
damage and split the edge of the float.

Small tool Used in tight, difficult angles. The types shown here are leaf and square.

Mechanical drum mixer A mechanical mixer that is best used for mixing cement-based plasters. This type of
mixing is carried out outdoors, as it can be noisy and the materials used will cause high
dust levels.

Drill and whisk A mechanical mixing tool used for mixing lightweight undercoat and setting plasters. It is
a fast and efficient way of mixing lightweight plasters.

Flat brush Used to apply water when finishing setting plaster.

➥
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Features in the book

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

 Table 3.1 Tools and equipment (Continued)

Tool Use

Small brushes Used to clean internal angles and frames.

External corner trowel Used to form rounded hard angles, e.g. in walls with window openings.

Plumb bob A heavy weight attached to a string line used to set out and transfer plumb points from
above.

Internal angle trowel Used to form wet internal angles of finishing plaster during the setting and finishing
process.

8
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Plastering materials,
additives and beads used Building
sand
with internal plastering
systems
Before you start to plan for carrying out plastering
work, you will need to familiarise yourself with the
necessary materials and components needed to Vermiculite Aggregates
Sharp/coarse
sand
complete various plastering activities. These are the
majority of materials you will need when preparing and
applying different plastering systems.

Hydraulic
lime Perlite

Lime p Figure 3.3 Aggregates

Gypsum
putty

Binders

Hydrated
Cement
lime

p Figure 3.1 Binders

p Figure 3.4 Building sand

p Figure 3.2 Cement

p Figure 3.5 Sharp/Coarse sand

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Features in the book

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

Standard
PVA square and
tapered edge

Thermal
laminate Fireline
Bonding
agents
Plasterboards

Grit SBR

p Figure 3.6 Bonding agents Moisture

Sound block
resistant

Standard
angle p Figure 3.10 Plasterboards
beads

Thin coat Dry

Expanded
angle wall
metal lath
beads screws
Beads and
reinforcements

Expansion
Stop beads
beads

Fixings
p Figure 3.7 Beads and reinforcements

Galvanised Nailable
nails plugs

p Figure 3.11 Fixings

p Figure 3.8 Standard angle beads

p Figure 3.9 Expansion beads p Figure 3.12 Dry wall screws

10
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Preparing the background for adheres well to the background surface. Before you
plastering start you will need to control the suction and ensure
that the background has adequate key to ensure
Building methods and materials are always evolving,
adhesion.
with many changes to the way we work and the
practices we use. Modern materials have been
developed and manufactured to improve the efficiency KEY TERMS
of mixing plaster and to ensure compatibility with Adheres: how well the plaster sticks to the
background. Key terms provide
different backgrounds, simplifying the plastering
process. Despite this, over time plastering surfaces can Key: referring to the background surface. A rough clear explanations for
still break down due to age, poor surface preparation or surface produces adequate key; smooth surfaces technical language.
bad workmanship (including poor mixing). have less or no key.

The key to creating a good plaster surface is to

identify and prepare the backgrounds beforehand. It
is important to understand that not all backgrounds
have the same properties. Some will be soft and weak,
some will be hard and dense, some backgrounds
could be timber studwork or joists or metal furrings.
Plasterboard fixed to old timber surfaces may be need
building out with a backing plaster depending on how
uneven the surface is. This is quite common in old
buildings that are being refurbished.

Different backgrounds need to be prepared for p Figure 3.13 Metal and timber backgrounds
plastering in different ways. There are several steps
that you need to follow to make sure the plaster

Practical task Practical tasks give

learners activities
Carry out a suction test by applying water on a solid background to see that will help them to
how much it absorbs cement their learning.
Checking the suction will tell you if the background is dry and porous. You can do this by splashing
water onto the background with a brush. The quicker the water is absorbed, the higher the background’s
suction.
No suction or low suction (when the splashed water stays on the background’s surface) will indicate that
the background is hard or dense.
High-suction backgrounds (when the splashed water soaks in quickly) will absorb moisture from the
plaster mix and may cause it to dry too quickly when applied.

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Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

Types of backgrounds
 Table 3.2 Types of background

Type of background Comment

Hollow and solid blocks Newly constructed buildings that have block walling need little preparation before
you apply plaster to their surface because they have medium to adequate key. The
surface is flat and can be plastered using traditional or modern pre-mixed plasters.
Block walling built to today’s specifications and standards needs only a backing
coat and finish, known as ‘float and set’.

Lightweight aerated blocks These blocks are lightweight and weak with an adequate key but have high
suction levels. Cement-based mixes are not compatible with these backgrounds
because they are too strong for this surface. This type of block is best suited for
pre-mixed plasters that are weaker than the background direct bond dry lining.
Applying a solution of PVA (polyvinyl acetate - a water-based glue that is used for
preparing background surfaces by improving adhesion) diluted with water (to the
manufacturer’s instructions) will seal the surface and control the suction.

Plasterboard There are several different types of plasterboard, but they are all made with a
plaster core within an outer skin of paper. Plasterboard may have square or tapered
edges. Before applying plaster, both types need to be reinforced at their joints in
order to prevent cracking. Plasterboard has a flat surface with low suction and
only requires a finish coat, applied using a one-coat system that consists of two
passes of finishing plaster at an average thickness of 3mm. Fixing plasterboard
over uneven timber studwork may require filling out; this should be done using a
bonding-grade backing plaster that contains the aggregate vermiculite.

Timber lath Laths were traditionally used on timber backgrounds. They consist of thin strips
of wood over which plaster can be spread. It can be a time-consuming process
to prepare, fix and plaster this surface. This type of background is still used in the
restoration of listed buildings.

12
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Type of background Comment

Existing solid plaster This type of surface is common with solid walls that require a makeover due to poor
surface condition that has developed over the years. Over skim makeovers enhance
the appearance of a wall by re-skimming the surface without removing the old
plaster from the background.
When applying plaster to this type of surface, remember that it can only be as good
as the background you plaster over. The surface needs to be solid and sound with
no hollowness. Any flaking paint and surface grime or grease that could prevent
the new plaster from bonding should be removed.
This background has no key and if it is painted usually no suction, unless the
background has different properties that are hidden behind the decorated wall
surface. For example, if the wall has been re-plastered after having electrical
services installed, it may contain different plasters on the background, creating
different suction rates.
This background will need a bonding adhesive applied on its surface before it can
be re-plastered.
Existing plaster and plasterboard surface There are many different types of plaster surface that may need to be replaced or
that has decayed over time restored, whether due to poor workmanship or deterioration over time. This type of
surface may show signs of cracking, hollowness or a crumbling surface that cannot
be decorated due to its condition. You will have to remove any existing surface
finish before you are able to identify its background properties.

Clay bricks Clay bricks were very popular at one time and can be found in all types of
buildings. A common fault with clay bricks is that they would shell their face (the
outer surface would come apart), causing the plaster to ‘blow’ (come away from the
background).
This type of background is often uneven because the bricks were manufactured in
kilns at great heat, which made them all a slightly different shape. They were then
laid on a lime mortar bed, which is very weak.
Clay bricks and lime mortar joints have a high absorption rate that will cause high
suction levels. This surface will need to be treated with a bonding adhesive before
plastering. Raking out the joints will also improve the key.

Concrete common bricks These bricks are made from coarse aggregate mixed with cement. This surface
is smooth and hard, which means the key is poor and the suction is minimal. A
bonding slurry is best suited for this surface.

KEY TERM
Hollowness: Previously plastered walls that are loose, delaminated from the background

13
 Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

Removing old plasterwork from the

ACTIVITY
background
Make a list of hazards you may come across when
Removing old plaster from backgrounds is a process removing old lath and plaster.
known as hacking. It is important to remove all
loose plaster from the surface. This can be carried
out by hand or mechanically using various tools and Procedure for fixing plasterboard to
equipment, but before you start you need to protect a ceiling
certain areas to prevent damage that can be caused by The following steps show the staggered method for
this type of work. installing plasterboard to a timber joist ceiling that is
Plywood sheeting can be used to protect floors and 10 m². Before you start to fix plasterboard, set up a
openings such as windows and doors. Dust sheets and staging that allows you to install your plasterboard
tarpaulins are good for protecting furniture that might safely and efficiently to the ceiling.
be too heavy to move out of the building. Causing 1 Mark the wall to indicate the ceiling joists.
damage to the client’s property is unprofessional and
can be costly to replace!

Images and diagrams

help learners absorb
information and
recognise materials.

p Figure 3.14 Hacking a surface

p Figure 3.15 Marked lines for the ceiling joists

HEALTH AND SAFETY 2 Mark the width of the plasterboard, allowing an

When you carry out this type of work, you need to be extra 5 mm on the joists at each end of the ceiling,
aware of the risks caused by high dust levels and the
and snap a chalk line. This will give you a guide
build-up of debris. Building sites can be dangerous
places with many hidden hazards. Reading the risk line on the ceiling against which to install the
assessments will make you aware of the hazards plasterboard edge.
involved with this type of work and identify the type
of personal protective equipment (PPE) that you
need to wear. You also need to follow the method Width
Health and safety
905mm

905mm

of board
statement, which will give you a safe means of work. plus 5mm
boxes flag important
It is important to dispose of the loose rubble
points to keep removed from the surface before it builds up around
yourself, colleagues you. Using a shovel, brush and wheelbarrow is a
and clients safe in the good way of removing and transporting your rubble
– using a wheelbarrow will be less strenuous on your
workplace.
body than using buckets and will reduce the risk of
injury. 1.8m x 0.9m plasterboard

14
 Illustrations help
learners visualise
tricky steps in a
procedure.

Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

905mm Chalk line width of board plasterboard first, followed by a full plasterboard.
You have now completed the layout of the
staggered ceiling.

905mm

Staggered
joints on
adjacent run

p Figure 3.18 Completed layout of staggered ceiling

p Figure 3.16 Marked width of the plasterboard
3 Measure and cut the first board to the centre of the KEY TERMS
furthest joist.
Plasterboard strut: used to prop the plasterboard
4 Rasp the cut edge. This side will be positioned to the
in position prior to securing with screws.
wall.
Dead man prop: a useful piece of equipment when
5 Using struts or a dead man prop, position the working on your own. It is a telescopic pole with
plasterboard along the chalk line, making sure the pads on each end; the pole is adjusted to hold
end of the board sits on the centre of the joist. an item above your head just like an extra pair of
hands.

Preparing loose plastering materials

for mixing
Struts Before setting up the mixing area you need to protect
the floor area by placing tarpaulin or timber sheets on
it to protect it from splashes and spillages that may
occur when mixing. Dust sheets and cling film can be
used to protect walkways and furniture.
It is extremely important to follow the specification
when gauging plastering mixes and to gauge the
materials accurately. Inaccurate mixing or gauging can
p Figure 3.17 Using struts lead to weakened mixes or mixes that are too strong.
Gauging boxes were traditionally used to measure
6 Once the board is correctly positioned it can be quantities of materials. Today, plastic buckets are
fixed to the correct fixing centres using nails at preferred as they are lighter and have handles, which
150 mm or screws at 230 mm. makes the job easier.
7 Continue and fit the next board, leaving a small gap
of about 2 mm after butting up to the previous board. To measure quantities and volumes of materials
Make sure you install the board to the chalk line. accurately, fill the bucket or box to the top and then
8 On the adjacent run you will need to stagger ‘flatten off’ with a piece of timber. This will ensure that
the joints. You can do this by fixing a shorter the correct proportion of each material is added to
make your mix.

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 Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

Cement-based ratios for dubbing out and scratch

Ratio of mixes Use
coats can vary depending on the characteristics of the
background. In some cases, the background may have Ratio (written as 6:1:1) of: These ratios of mix would be
penetrating or rising damp, which is quite common in 6 sand preferred on severe uneven
backgrounds, such as stone
old housing. This will mean that the ratio of the mix 1 cement
or old brickwork. In some
will be different compared with walls that have no 1 lime cases, less lime is added;
damp issues but may have poor adhesion and key. The plus plasticiser however, this will depend on
Ratio (7:1:1) of: the specification.
following table shows the ratio of mixes for scratch
coats and dubbing out. 7 sand
Improve your maths and 1 cement
English activities help
learners to practise skills IMPROVE YOUR MATHS 1 lime
plus plasticiser
Ratios are used to show the proportions of a mixture.
they will regularly have to
You can increase the amount of each part, but it Ratio (3:1) of: These ratios of mix would be
use in the workplace. must be in the same ratio. For example, if you need preferred when dubbing out
3 sand
to order sugar and coffee in a ratio of 1:5, you need 1 cement
and applying scratch coats
1 kg of sugar for every 5 kg of coffee. to backgrounds that have
plus waterproofer been treated for rising or
You could double (× 2) the amount of sugar and penetrating damp.
Ratio (4:1) of:
change 1 kg to 2 kg, but if you do, you should
4 sand
also double the amount of coffee, i.e. 5 kg should
become 10 kg. 1 cement
plus waterproofer

Ratio (4:1) of: This ratio is preferred when

4 sand applying scratch coats to
slurry surfaces.
1 cement

Ratio (5:1) of: This mix would be used on

5 sand uneven surfaces that have
good key and only require
1 cement
preparing with water or PVA.

Ratio (5:2) of: Used for training purposes in

5 sand colleges.
2 lime

IMPROVE YOUR MATHS

When gauging loose plastering materials for
mixing, work out and calculate how many buckets of
cement and lime you require when preparing to mix
with 48 buckets of sand, if the ratio is 6:1:1 (sand,
cement and lime).

INDUSTRY TIP
p Figure 3.19 Mixing with a drum mixer Adding too much water will make the plaster slide down the
wall, while not enough water will make it difficult to spread.

16
Industry tips provide
expert advice on best
practice for plastering.
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Mixing traditional cement- This will allow the additive time to make the mix
workable and easier to use when applying the
based plastering materials plaster.
using machinery l Mixing should be carried out for at least five minutes,
allowing the materials to fully mix together.
Traditional sand, lime and cement materials are best
l Don’t forget to wear gloves/barrier cream, goggles/
mixed with a mechanical drum mixer, which will
glasses and boots to protect from splashes from the
thoroughly mix the different materials that make the
turning drum of the mixer.
plaster mix.
l Clean water and any specified additive such as

plasticiser should be added to the mixer first. This

Mixing by hand
will prevent materials sticking to the back of the There are some instances where smaller amounts of
drum. mix are required. This can be mixed loose on a flat
l The consistency of the mixed material should be
surface or in a bucket. The following steps show how to
drier, rather than wet, when mixing is in progress. mix cement-based plasters by hand.

Step-by-step
instructions
STEP 1 First, gauge the materials. STEP 2 Next, place the materials into STEP 3 Mix the materials dry (without demonstrate how to
a single pile. adding water).
do tasks with clear
explanations and real-
life examples.

STEP 4 Once the materials are mixed, STEP 5 Measure the correct amount of STEP 6 Mix the plasticiser into the water.
make a dip in the middle of the pile. plasticiser needed to improve workability.
Add the plasticiser to the water.

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Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

STEP 7 Pour the water into the middle STEP 8 Using a shovel, pull the dry material STEP 9 Mix and turn the material. The
of the pile of materials. slowly towards the centre, into the water. longer you turn, the better the mix.

Pre-blended plasters
Pre-blended gypsum-based plasters can be mixed either
by hand with a plunger or mechanically with a drill
and whisk. When mixing, it is important to follow the
manufacturer’s technical instructions; these are normally
printed on the back of the bag. Irregular setting can
occur if you do not follow the rules of using clean water,
tools and equipment when mixing this type of plaster.
Pre-blended plasters used to be mixed in baths with a
rake or shovel, until a modern powerful motorised drill
was developed with a whisk attachment. This tool can
STEP 10 The finished mix. mix pre-blended plaster with ease.

INDUSTRY TIP
Don’t add too much water or the mix will become too heavy,
unworkable and difficult to use.

ACTIVITY
In groups of two or three, follow the procedure for
mixing lime and sand mortar to a ratio of 3:1, plus
plasticiser.

p Figure 3.20 Mixing with a plunger

18
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

of plastering material to obtain the desired finish.

However, some severely uneven backgrounds may need
more than one scratch coat to build the surface out.

Two coat work

Two coat work is applied on flatter backgrounds, such as
block and brick surfaces, which can be completed using a
floating and setting coat. This has an approximate overall
thickness of 13 mm; however, this may vary on uneven
backgrounds. This surface does not require a scratch coat.

One coat work

One coat work is generally related to applying the
finishing coat, this is carried out by applying two passes
of finishing plaster on to plasterboard or devil floated
backing coats. The first pass is applied approximately
2–3 mm thick and left to pull in before the second pass
is applied and trowelled up to the desired finish.
p Figure 3.21 Mixing with a drill and whisk One coat work also relates to applying one coat
universal plaster approximately 10 mm thick and
finished in one process, which replaces the two coat
process of float and set.

Plumb dot and screed method

The plumb dot and screed process is the most accurate
method of applying a floating coat and also the most
time-consuming. If the client is prepared to pay for this
method then they will benefit from having accurate,
plumb plastered walls.
Timber dots are used to set out accurate plumb walls
p Figure 3.22 Plastering an uneven background and also used to form horizontal or vertical screeds
(strips of plaster). The screeds are left to set before being
Applying plastering systems used as guides, allowing the plasterer to fill in between
The type of plastering carried out on internal walls within and accurately rule the surface to obtain a flat plumb
buildings will be restricted by the background’s surface. wall. The surface is later consolidated and lightly keyed
Internal plastering can be completed using several using a devil float once the material has pulled in.
plastering application process or systems, for example: This system may well be used today in areas such as
l Plasterboard backgrounds require just one bathrooms or kitchens due to the accuracy required
application known as one coat. to fit and fix units and sanitary tiles or where fibrous
l New blockwork would require two coat application. plaster is to be installed.
This is known as float and set.
l Severely uneven surfaces may require three coat

application, called scratch float and set. INDUSTRY TIP

Three coat work The plumb dot and screed method was used a lot in early
Three coat work is generally applied on uneven industry.
backgrounds, building up the surface in three layers
19
Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

STEP 1 Apply a dab of plaster approximately STEP 2 Set the dot into it. The distance STEP 3 Directly below the top dot, set
150–300 mm from the ceiling and adjacent from the wall surface to the face of the dot another dot approximately 300 mm from
wall. will be the thickness of the floating coat. the floor.

STEP 4 Check that the dots are plumb. STEP 5 When the dots have stiffened, apply STEP 6 Using the floating rule or feather
plaster material between them to form the edge, rule off the excess plaster between
screeds. the dots. Remember to wear a hard hat
when using a hop-up.

STEP 7 Fill any hollows. Repeat Steps 6 and STEP 8 When the screeds have stiffened STEP 9 Apply plaster between the screeds,
7 until the screed is flush with the dots and sufficiently, consolidate the surface with starting at the top of the wall and working
free from hollows. a float and form key with a devil float. heel to toe.
Remember to remove the dots and fill in with
stiffening floating material.
20
 Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

STEP 10 Repeat until you reach the bottom STEP 11 Place the thinner edge of the rule STEP 12 Any excess plaster will gather on the
screed. across both screeds and, using a side-to- edge of the rule. This should be cleaned off
side motion, draw the edge up the screeds, the edge and returned to the spot board.
ensuring that the edge remains in contact
with both screeds at all times.

STEP 13 Fill any hollows until the plaster STEP 14 Repeat Steps 9 to 13 until the area STEP 15 The finished floating coat.
is flush with the screeds and all hollows between the screeds is completely covered
are filled. and ruled off.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITY
After reading this chapter in groups, discuss and plan
how to plaster a modern two-bedroom house built
of standard blockwork containing timber partitions
and ceiling joists. Decide on a two coat lightweight
plastering system, performance plasterboard, fixings
and fixing different types of beads.

WORKSHOP ACTIVITY 1
Working with a partner, set out a scaffold staging
in a bay and fix plasterboards to a ceiling. Ensure
the boards stagger on the second run then reinforce
with self-adhesive scrim and apply finishing plaster
p Figure 3.23 Plasterboarded wall in preparation for decoration.

21
 Selected pages from Chapter 3

The City & Guilds Textbook: Plastering

WORKSHOP ACTIVITY 2 WORKSHOP ACTIVITY 3

Direct bond around a pillar with plasterboard, fix Fix standard angle beads to a window wall, apply
thin coat angle beads to the corners and apply two lightweight backing plaster to the wall face including
passes of finishing plaster. the window returns and soffit, cut back at beads and
devil float then apply two passes of finishing plaster.
Scenarios provide
learners with
examples of the kind Case study: Megan ceilings. He suggests replacing the old ceiling with
fire line plasterboard to increase the fire rating
of briefs they can Megan’s first house was a mid-1850s Victorian performance in line with building regulations. This
expect to receive. terrace, which she purchased in the city. She should then be plastered with two passes of thistle
preferred to purchase an older property rather than board finish between 2–3 mm thick and polished
a newly built house. Read her story to learn how flat and smooth to receive redecoration.
she got on.
After carrying out a thorough check on the deep
I recently purchased a Victorian house that crack on the wall, his advice is to remove all old
requires some renovation work in order to plasterwork from the defected wall surface, mix
modernise and upgrade it. When I bought the coarse sand and cement and fill the crevice flush
house there were several plastering defects with the face of the wall and then leave it to set
identified that were highlighted in the surveyor’s and become hard. Once set, he has suggested
recommendation report. The plaster on the ceiling fixing expanded metal lath over the cracked area
is loose and there are widespread cracks on the with mechanical fixings as this will reinforce the
surface and the living room wall has a large deep weak area. The wall will need to be plastered using
crack running from the ceiling line down to the a lightweight plaster system and this will require
floor. I am eager to get these defects corrected three coats: scratch, float and set.
and have been given the name and telephone
The plasterer’s advice on rectifying the work is
number of a qualified plasterer to contact; he has
knowledgeable and precise, therefore I’m going
been highly recommended after completing some
to ask him for a written quotation for the work.
renovation work for a family member.
This will ensure the work he carries out will be
The plastering contractor has recently called completed with a guarantee and to the required
by my property to give me advice on replacing industry standards.
and renewing the ceilings and making good the
Megan’s advice
defected wall surface.
It is important to find someone reliable and
He has stipulated in his estimate that the rooms
reputable to advise and carry out the renovation
will need to be clear of furniture with adequate
work as repairs and remedial work can be costly if
protection and the need to hire a portable
not calculated before you purchase an older house.
ventilation appliance to remove the hazardous
dust when taking down the lath and plaster

22
 Test Your Knowledge
sections help to make
sure learners can
recall and apply their
knowledge.

Chapter 3 Internal Plastering and Fixing Dry Lining

Test your knowledge 7 When fixing plasterboard to block background,

which of these is carried out by using the
1 What aggregate is added during manufacture following fixing procedures?
to lightweight backing plaster to improve A Direct bond with drywall adhesive
adhesion?
B Mechanically fixed with screws
A Vermiculite
C Using a dry wall self-feeder
B Perlite
D Fixing with galvanized nails
C Cement
8 When fixing plasterboard to ceilings, what are
D Lime the recommended fixing centres of the screws?
2 What term is given to measuring loose materials A 260 mm
when mixing plaster backing coats?
B 300 mm
A Batching
C 230 mm
B Gauging
D 350 mm
C Adding
9 What is the recommended thickness
D Raking when applying finishing plaster to floated
3 What is the term given to the hardening process backgrounds?
of cement and sand mixed for plastering? A 8–9 mm
A Drying B 6–7 mm
B Setting C 4–5 mm
C Curing D 2–3 mm
D Shrinkage 10 After ruling a floating coat, the next process in
4 What type of defect is caused when preparation before applying the finishing coat is
applying finishing plaster over a high suction to:
background? A Devil float the surface
A Grinning B Key with a comb scratcher
B Shrinkage C Fix angle beads with plaster
C Blistering D Apply scrim to the joints
D Crazing
11 What type of bead is used on returns built of
5 What reinforcement is fixed over timber wall
blockwork background?
plates before plastering?
A Stop bead
A Expanded metal lath
B Standard angle bead
B Self-adhesive scrim
C Expansion bead
C Scrim cloth
D Mini mesh bead
D Mesh matting
12 Cutting back is a process carried out after:
6 What type of plasterboard is best used on
bathroom walls? A Devil floating
A Fire line B Applying finishing plaster
B Vapour check C Fixing plasterboard
C Moisture resistant D Mixing backing plaster
D Sound block

23
 The City & Guilds textbook

Plastering
LEVEL 1 DIPLOMA (6708)
LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA (6708)
LEVEL 2 TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE (7908)
SAMPLE
Mike Gashe MATERIAL
Kevin Byrne

Build up the skills you’ll need for your career with this comprehensive new
textbook published in association with City & Guilds and covering the 7908 and
6708 Plastering qualifications at Levels 1 and 2. Topic coverage includes areas
such as internal plastering, applying external rendering, floor screed systems,
mouldings and interior systems.
❚● Test yourself and prepare for assessment with end of chapter questions and
practical scenarios.
❚● Build the skills you’ll need to use regularly in the workplace with the ‘Improve your
maths’ and ‘Improve your English’ tasks.
❚● Get ready for the workplace with Industry Tips; Health and Safety reminders; and
guidance on values and behaviours.
❚● Develop core skills with expert authors Mike Gashe and Kevin Byrne, who draw on
their extensive teaching and industry experience.

Dynamic Learning
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