I sometimes get asked – Does plasterboard need to get skimmed? Can you paint directly onto plasterboard? and what happens if you don’t skim coat plasterboard? In this article, I’ll give a run down of why skim coating plasterboards is important, and it’s not just down to aesthetics, there are other, more important reason why we plaster over plasterboards.
Plasterboards, also known as drywall or gypsum board, are widely used in modern construction due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and fire-resistant properties. However, their porous and uneven surface requires a skim coat plaster before painting or wallpapering. In this article, we will discuss why skim coat plaster is necessary for plasterboards and its benefits.
Skim coat plaster is a thin layer of plaster that creates a smooth and even finish on the plasterboard surface. It fills in gaps and imperfections, creating a seamless and professional finish suitable for painting or wallpapering. Here are some reasons why plasterboards require a skim coat plaster:
- Smooth Surface: Skim coat plaster creates a smooth and even surface that is ideal for painting or wallpapering, as the surface of plasterboards is often uneven due to joints, screw holes, and other imperfections.
- Adhesion: Skim coat plaster provides an excellent base for paint or wallpaper to adhere to. Without a skim coat, paint or wallpaper may not stick properly to the surface of the plasterboard, leading to peeling or cracking over time.
- Durability: A skim coat plaster provides a protective layer over the surface of plasterboards, increasing their durability and lifespan. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens.
- Aesthetics: Skim coat plaster creates a professional, high-quality finish that enhances the aesthetics of a room. It can be painted or wallpapered in any colour or pattern, providing a versatile and customizable design solution.
- Moisture Resistance: Plasterboards can absorb moisture, leading to mould and mildew growth. Skim coat plaster helps prevent moisture from penetrating the surface of the plasterboard, reducing the risk of mould and mildew.
In conclusion, skim coat plaster is necessary for creating a smooth, even surface that is suitable for painting or wallpapering. It provides a durable and moisture-resistant layer that enhances the aesthetics of a room, ensuring a professional and long-lasting finish.
Further Reading
I’ve put some simple, but necessary, steps in order below to ensure you skim coat plasterboard correctly
Before skimming plasterboard, make sure you use scrim tape to reinforce the joint between the boards and prevent cracks appearing. Click the image to learn how to scrim tape…
You’ll also need to install anglebeads on all external corners of your plasterboard. Click the image to learn how to install angle beads…
Once you’ve completed the above steps, you’re ready to skim coat your plasterboards. Click the image to find out how to do this…
And finally, preparing the skim coat for painting is the last step in the process before you decorate. Click the image to learn how to prepare plaster, a must read…