How do I repair cracks in a old plaster wall?
+3
How do I repair cracks in a old plaster wall that has some pieces of plaster missing. I do not want to tear down all the old plaster. The house is 110 years old and I would like to keep it original.
Related Discussions
Suggested Project Book
Depends on how big the cracks are. You can use joint compound.
Here's a link on repairing plaster, Henry:
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-fix-damaged-plaster
The problem will be if the plaster is falling because it's getting so old it's integrity is failing. You need to have a good base to start from to make a repair. If the plaster around the edges of the holes is crumbly or sandy you'll need to tear back to places where the plaster is in good shape. If it's lathe and mortar or mortar and horse hair it will make a difference too.
Oberlinmon has all the correct info. Glad you are saving the plaster.
Here's a link to great info from "This Old House" TV series. Hope it helps you save your plaster walls.
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-plaster-walls
You can find a pre-mixed plaster patch (not drywall joint compound) at Walmart's and box stores like Lowe's. Here's a link to the product at Walmart's: https://www.walmart.com/ip/DAP-Patching-Plaster-32-oz/17243999. The product is called : DAP Patching Plaster, comes in 32 oz size, for about $5. It's real plaster and makes a nice patch. For large areas, you'll need to make multiple thin coats.