How To Choose The Right Plastering Services For Your Project
Plastering is an essential part of any construction or renovation project. It provides a smooth, even surface for painting or wallpapering and also helps to insulate your home. But with so many plastering services available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming—how do you know who you can trust to get the job done properly? To help you make an informed decision when choosing a plastering service, we’ve put together a few key things to look for.
The Importance of Quality Plastering
Plastering is a craft that requires skill, precision, and a deep understanding of materials and techniques. Quality plastering creates a solid foundation for your interior or exterior finishes, ensuring that your walls and ceilings are smooth, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Poor plastering can lead to a whole host of issues down the line, such as cracks, uneven surfaces, and a generally unsightly appearance.
If you're experiencing moisture leaks through your exterior walls, it could be a sign of failing plaster or render which can lead to mould growth, structural damage, and compromised indoor air quality. Getting the experts in to get your external plastering sorted can dramatically improve any weather-tightness issues, sealing up any leaks and leaving you and your family with a warm, dry, and cosy home.
Plastering also plays an important role in the overall insulation and soundproofing of your home. A well-plastered wall can help regulate the temperature inside, making it more energy-efficient and comfortable—something that’s particularly important in Auckland, where the weather can be unpredictable.
Plastering vs Rendering vs GIB Stopping
When it comes to finishing walls and ceilings, it's important to understand the differences between plastering, rendering, and GIB stopping.
Plastering and Rendering
Plastering and rendering are both techniques that are used to create a smooth, finished surface on exterior walls. However, there are some key differences between the two:
Plastering: This process involves applying a thinner, pre-mixed coat over a base layer, typically mesh or a proprietary cladding system. It offers a wider range of colours and finishes and can be more flexible for creating decorative effects.
Rendering: This involves applying a multi-layered, sand and cement-based mix directly onto the building's structural elements like brick, block, or concrete. It provides a solid, durable finish and can be customised with a variety of textures.
GIB Stopping
GIB stopping involves applying a compound to create a smooth surface, ready for plastering. For a high-end finish, you can GIB stop joints and then give them a full skim with plaster. Whether you're renovating, building new, or simply refreshing your space, GIB stopping and plastering will give your walls a professional, smooth appearance that you’ll love.
Finishing Levels
"Levels of finish" is a guide to the quality of plasterboard installation and finishing. Levels 4 and 5 are the most commonly used in home renovations and builds.
Level 4: This is a good choice for most homes. It works well with regular paint (not shiny) and lighting that isn't super bright or harsh.
Level 5: You'd want this if you're using high-gloss paint (very shiny) or dark colours, or if your room has very bright light that will show any imperfections.
Level Six Finishing
Level Six Finishing is a high-end service offered by only a handful of skilled building practitioners in New Zealand. This niche service is perfect for critical lighting areas like staircases, creating the smoothest surface available, adding the 'wow' factor to your home.
It’s a complicated process that requires a high level of skill but the team at West & Sons Construction has solid experience with this level of finish. We reinforce the wall with a mesh coat, making it 70% stronger than a conventional GIB finish, that keeps your walls smooth years to come.
When You Might Need Plastering Services
Before we dive into choosing a plastering service, let’s take a closer look at when you might need plastering completed and why.
Cracks and Damage
Over time, walls can develop cracks due to settling, weather exposure, or slight movements in the foundation. These cracks can become easy entry points for moisture, allowing dust and noise to travel and impacting thermal insulation and heat efficiency.
Faded or Deteriorated Exterior Plastering
Is your existing plaster or render looking dull, discoloured, or flaking? This could indicate a breakdown of the material, and reduced protection for your walls. External plastering is key to improving the weather-tightness of your home and keeping the exterior protected for years to come.
Leaky Walls
If you're experiencing moisture leaks through your walls, it could be a sign of failing external plaster. This can lead to mould growth, structural damage, and compromised indoor air quality.
Outdated Appearance
If everything is A-okay with your walls but you’re ready for an update, plastering can instantly breathe new life into your property's exterior, giving your home an entirely new look. Plastering a dated brick home can modernise and bring your home into this century.
What to Look for in a Plastering Service
Once you’ve decided that plastering is the way to go for your project, let's take a look at how you can choose the right plastering services.
Experience and Expertise
A plastering service with years of experience is likely to have worked on a wide range of projects and challenges. This experience means that they’re able to complete your plastering more efficiently and with a higher quality of workmanship. To make sure your plastering project is completed to the highest standard, look for a company with a proven track record and a portfolio of successful projects.
At West & Sons Construction, our family-run business has been perfecting the art of plastering for generations, bringing experience and precision to every project.
Qualifications and Certifications
Plastering is a skilled trade, and it's important to choose a plasterer who is properly trained and qualified to meet industry standards. Plasterers who have completed relevant training courses and hold certifications in plastering are your best bet as they have the technical knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality work.
Our plastering specialists are fully qualified Licensed Building Practitioners and are committed to continuous professional development, ensuring that we stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices.
Range of Services
Different projects need different types of plastering services. Some plasterers specialise in interior plastering, while others may focus on exterior rendering or decorative finishes. For best results, choose a plasterer who offers the specific services you need for your project.
West & Sons Construction offers a comprehensive range of plastering services, including interior and exterior plastering, rendering, and decorative finishes. Whether you're looking to create a smooth, even surface or add a unique touch to your space, we've got you covered.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients is a great way to gauge a plastering service's reputation. A good plastering service should be able to provide a portfolio of their previous work that showcases their skills and the quality of their craftsmanship. This will give you a better idea of their style and the types of projects they have experience with.
At West & Sons Construction, we’re committed to putting people first and delivering results for our clients on time, every time. But don’t just take our word for it, take a look at what our valued clients are saying about us.
Communication and Project Management
Good communication is essential for any successful construction project. Choose a plasterer who is responsive, easy to communicate with, and willing to listen to your needs and preferences. A professional plasterer will provide clear, detailed quotes, keep you informed throughout the project, and make sure that any issues are sorted right away.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the plastering process, from the initial consultation to the final finish. We manage your project from end-to-end, saving you valuable time and providing a hassle-free experience.
Cost and Value
While it's important to find a plasterer who offers competitive pricing, especially if you’re on a tight budget, remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. Quality plastering requires skill, experience, and attention to detail, and it's worth investing in a plasterer who can deliver a high-quality finish. When comparing quotes, consider the plasterer's experience, qualifications, and the quality of their previous work, not just the price.
West & Sons Construction offers fair and transparent pricing so that you receive the best value for your investment without compromising on quality.
We also have a team of house painters in Auckland offering professional, cost-effective painting services for all of your painting needs. Our roof painting services in particular are ideal for protecting your exterior from the elements. After applying the external plaster, we use low toxicity paint that’s suitable for your roofing to provide a protective and appealing finish—we can even colour match for the best results possible.
Expert Plastering Services from West & Sons Construction
We understand that choosing the right plastering service is essential to the success of your project. That's why we're committed to providing exceptional plastering services that meet the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Here's why you should choose us:
Family Values: As a family-owned business, we take pride in our work and treat every project as if it were our own. Our commitment to family values means that we prioritise honesty, integrity, and client satisfaction in everything we do.
Exceptional Craftsmanship: Our team of skilled plastering specialists is dedicated to delivering only the best results. With years of experience and a passion for quality, we take pride in our craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Comprehensive Services: Whether you need interior plastering, exterior rendering, or decorative finishes, we've got the experience and expertise to meet your needs. We offer a full range of plastering services for properties throughout Auckland.
Client Satisfaction: We believe that our success is built on the satisfaction of our clients. That's why we're committed to providing excellent service and completing every project to the highest standards.
Local Expertise: As a local Auckland construction company, we understand the unique needs and challenges of our community. We're here to provide the internal and external plastering services you need to make your project a success.
Time to Get Your Plastering Sorted?
Choosing the right plastering service for your project is so important for achieving the perfect finish for your property. By considering factors such as experience, qualifications, attention to detail, and reputation, you can find a plasterer who will deliver high-quality results that meet your needs and expectations.
At West & Sons, we're proud to offer top-quality plastering services throughout Auckland. Whether you're working on a new build, renovation, or repair, our team of skilled plastering specialists is here to help. With our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, you can trust us to deliver the best possible results for your project.
Contact us today to discuss your plastering needs and find out how we can help you achieve the perfect finish for your project. We're here to make your plastering experience as smooth and stress-free as possible, from start to finish.