Idebtifying Plaster

[LindsayO]

I've started to strip the wallpaper off all the walls in my flat. And I'm left wondering what is underneath. Is there anyway to find out what kind of plaster I've got.

The flat was built in 1895 and is sandstone, so could the plaster be lime-based? If so how do I tell?

I'm asking because some paints say "Not usitable for lime-based plaster" others say "Not suitable for gypsum-based"

 

[Deluks]

If you don't want it to look sheet, then get it reskimmed or covered with lining paper before painting.

Probably best moved to the deccy forum. *mods*

 

[LindsayO]

Thanks for the reply, and sorry I posted in the wrong forum. I was trying to post it in Decorating and Painting.

 

[joe-90]

Personally, I've never had any problem with any plaster type, so I don't see the problem. Your biggest potential problem is the old paste on the wall that will cause the paint to crack.

 

[54aardvark]

Ditto Joe-90,

I work on a lot of 1800's buldings in Montrose and have never had any probs with plaster.......... painting wise that is!

Some of the old lath & plaster can be a pain to prep though, what with decades of cobbled repairs, once you're through a very elderly finish coat and hit sand - deep joy, out with the Carlite, Easifil & lining paper!

Any probs, give us a shout.