Bubbling Plaster
Plaster developing bubbles, blisters, or a bumpy texture on the surface, sometimes with paint lifting over the top.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Moisture trapped behind the plaster
- 2Plaster applied over a damp wall
- 3Chemical reaction between plaster and contaminated substrate
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 remove the affected area, allow the wall to dry, treat the surface, and replaster. If the damp source has not been resolved, the problem will return.
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
Never plaster over damp walls. Allow walls to dry fully after a leak before replastering. Ensure rooms are well ventilated.
Related Problems
Plaster that sounds hollow when tapped, feels soft, or bulges away from the wall beneath.
A wet or discoloured area on plastered walls, often with a musty smell or salt crystals forming on the surface.
Paint flaking, bubbling, or peeling away from interior or exterior walls in sheets or patches.
Other Plasterer Problems
Cracks running through the plaster on an interior wall, from fine hairline cracks to wider splits.
Plaster that sounds hollow when tapped, feels soft, or bulges away from the wall beneath.
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.