Blown Plaster
Plaster that sounds hollow when tapped, feels soft, or bulges away from the wall beneath.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Damp weakening the bond between plaster and wall
- 2Plaster applied to a dusty or poorly prepared surface
- 3Age-related deterioration of lime plaster
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A plasterer will hack off the blown area back to solid material, apply a bonding coat, and skim to a smooth finish. Any underlying damp must be addressed first.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £188 – £513 | Materials: £53 – £185
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Fix damp problems before replastering. Ensure walls are clean and treated with PVA or bonding agent before new plaster is applied.
Related Problems
Cracks running through the plaster on an interior wall, from fine hairline cracks to wider splits.
A wet or discoloured area on plastered walls, often with a musty smell or salt crystals forming on the surface.
Plaster developing bubbles, blisters, or a bumpy texture on the surface, sometimes with paint lifting over the top.
Other Plasterer Problems
Cracks running through the plaster on an interior wall, from fine hairline cracks to wider splits.
A wet or discoloured area on plastered walls, often with a musty smell or salt crystals forming on the surface.
Textured Artex coating on the ceiling that you want removed for a smooth, modern finish.
Plaster developing bubbles, blisters, or a bumpy texture on the surface, sometimes with paint lifting over the top.