Is skimming plaster the thing to use when depth is too shallow for diy fillers?

Question

I've had to peel away loose paint off a wall and have ended up taking off several layers going back years. Now I have a one foot square patch 1mm deep to 'fill'. Tetrion and the like only recommnd themselves where the depth is at least 3mm. Therefore my question, is skimming plaster the answer and can I can a small bag of the stuff?

Or perhaps a ready mixed fine surface product?

So much disagreement!

Answer 1

without actually seeing it I would say yes on the information you have given and most small DIY shpos will sell you a small bag

Answer 2

Don't use finishing plaster, it won't stick to paint with using PVA, and if you have gone back to plaster it will set as soon as it hits the wall, giving you no chance to finish it. Use something like "One Coat".

Make sure the edges are clean and kept clean during the filling. Let it dry then rub a wet sponge over it before trowelling it smooth.
Always scrape the filler flat around the edge so that can always see the surrounding paint edge. Don't worry about the finish until after it has gone off.

Answer 3

You can use a top coat plaster and you can buy it in small bags. Make sure you wet the wall first before putting it up and mix it to the consistency of runny ice cream (seriously).

An alternative is to use Polycell deep gap filler (UK). To apply, put a small amount into the holes, spray with water then spread with a plastering float. This has the same effect as plaster in filling the area you are trying to fill.

Answer 4

Yes skim finishing plaster.
Its easy to do.
Don't bother with the diy fillers etc. you will never get a good finish.

Buy a 25kg bag of finishing plaster (£3.40) you will have loads left over, but might need it if your first try or two is not good.
you need a mixing bucket and a mixing paddle that connects to your drill. a plastering trowel an old board to dump the mixed plaster onto (spot in the trade) and water.

Have fun.

Answer 5

No offense but I'll assume you might not be in the "States"?

"Spackle" or similar in brand name of substance is fine up to a depth of 1/2 inch. The problem with any water based material isn't in the application; it's in the drying process. At certain thicknesses substances such as those tend to crack in the final stages of drying; if applied too heavily.

I'd suggest a pre-mix in any case; and sanding certainly; if neccesary.

Steven Wolf

It's possible there are poly blended substances sold; that are less prone to any OOOPS.

Answer 6

Any professional plasterer should be able to do this even if they need to sand it afterwards
Skim coating is the way to go

Answer 7

No unless you want all the wall done.

Answer 8

Yes to both questions.It wont work using anything else.