FINISHING CONSTRUCTION WORK

SHORT TERM
Based on March 2022, Curriculum Version I

Module Title: - Applying Internal & External Plastering Surfaces and Edges
Module code: EIS FCW2 M02 1122
Nominal duration: 60Hour

Prepared by: Jigjiga Polytechnic College

November, 2022
Jigjiga, Ethiopia

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Contents
Introduction to the Module.............................................................................................................................................5
Unit one: Plan and prepare for work.................................................................................................................................6
1.1. Work instruction...............................................................................................................................................7
1.2. Material quantity requirements.......................................................................................................................7
1.5.1. Measurement plastering...........................................................................................................................7
1.6. Materials appropriate to the work application.............................................................................................13
1.6.1. Undercoat Plaster....................................................................................................................................13
1.6.2. Skimming.................................................................................................................................................14
1.6.3. Beads........................................................................................................................................................15
1.6.4. Cement render.........................................................................................................................................15
Unit two: Coat internal and external walls, ceilings, angles, reveals and joints.......................................................17
2.1. Materials and Tools........................................................................................................................................18
2.1.1. Plastering Materials................................................................................................................................18
2.2. Type of coating plasterwork to walls and ceilings........................................................................................27
2.2.1. Introduction.............................................................................................................................................27
2.2.2. Type plaster coat.....................................................................................................................................28
2.2.3. Surface Preparation.................................................................................................................................28
2.3. Internal and external plaster coat angles, reveals and expansion joints.....................................................39
2.3.1. Expansion Joint Plastering................................................................................................................39
2.3.2. Expansion joint.......................................................................................................................................39
2.3.3. Internal angles plastering.......................................................................................................................40
2.3.4. External angles........................................................................................................................................41
2.3.5. Door and window reveals.......................................................................................................................41
Self-check (unit one)...............................................................................................................................................44
Operation sheet 1: applying internal and external plastering and edge.................................................................45
LAP test................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Reference..................................................................................................................................................................... 48

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Acknowledgment

Ministry of Labor and Skills and Jigjiga polytechnic college wish to extend thanks and appreciation to the
many representatives of TVET instructors and respective industry experts who donated their time and
expertise to the development of this Teaching, Training and Learning Materials (TTLM).

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Acronym
PPE ----------- personal protective equipment
OHS----------- occupational health safety

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 Introduction to the Module
The
Applying Internal & External Plastering Surfaces and Edges helps to know the Plan and prepare for work,
Coat internal and external walls, ceilings, angles, reveals and joints and Clean up in finishing construction
field. The Module covers skills, knowledge and attitudes required to coating external &internal walls,
ceilings, edges and producing external rendering finishes.

This module is designed to meet the industry requirement under the finishing construction work
occupational standard, particularly for the unit of competency: Applying Internal & External Plastering
Surfaces and Edges

This module covers the units:

 Plan and prepare for work
 Coat internal and external walls, ceilings, angles, reveals and joints
 Clean up
Learning Objective of the Module
 Plan and prepare for work
 Coat internal and external walls, ceilings, angles, reveals and joints
 Clean up
Module Instruction
For effective use this modules trainees are expected to follow the following module instruction:
1. Read the information written in each unit
2. Accomplish the Self-checks at the end of each unit
3. Perform Operation Sheets which were provided at the end of units
4. Do the “LAP test” giver at the end of each unit and
5. Read the identified reference book for Examples and exercise

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Unit one: Plan and prepare for work
This unit is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content coverage
and topics:
 Work instructions
 OHS requirements
 Signage and barricade requirements
 Tools and equipment to carry out tasks
 Material quantity requirements
 Materials appropriate to the work application
 Environmental protection requirements
This unit will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes/unit/ stated in the coverage. Specifically,
upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Obtain, confirm and apply work instructions, including plans, specifications, quality
requirements and operational details from relevant information, to the range of plant, tools and
equipment use.
 Follow safety (OHS) requirements in accordance with safety plans and policies.
 Identify and implement signage and barricade requirements in accordance with quality
requirements.
 Select tools and equipment to carry out tasks are consistent with the requirements of the job,
check for serviceability and rectify or report any faults prior to commencement.
 calculate Material quantity requirements in accordance with plans and/or specifications
 identify, obtain, prepare, safely handle and locate Materials appropriate to the work application
ready for use
 Identify Environmental requirements for the project in accordance with environmental plans
and apply Statutory and legislative authority obligations

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 1.1. Work instruction
Safe work procedures relating to Internal & External Plastering

Plastering is the process of covering rough walls and uneven surfaces in the construction of houses and other
structures with a plastic material, called plaster, which is a mixture of lime or cement concrete and sand along
with the required quantity of water.
Process of Internal & External plastering work: -

 After this prepare the mortar mix

 Then put dots on the wall to make sure even layering of plasters on the wall.
 These dots are patch of plasters.
 This is patches are putted to do the even layering of plaster
 Then put the first layer of plaster coat on wall & then second layer.
 Then level the surface by flat wooden edges.
 The leave it for settle down, after that do the curing process.

Falling objects can cause injury to your head, body and feet, and to someone working in the area below
you, or members of the public passing close to the site. Make sure no debris could fall from height and
place objects in a safe place. Use a suitable Shute for materials going into a skip.

Make sure all necessary precautions are taken as follows:

 Brick guards kept in position on scaffold lifts.
 Waste materials removed from scaffolding and placed in skip.
 Protective foot wear (with steel toe caps & midsoles)
 Supplied and worn at all times.
 Safety helmets to be worn and chin strap used when required.
 Encourage other workers to wear safety hats, protective clothing and foot wear.

1.2. Material quantity requirements

1.5.1. Measurement plastering

The measurement of quantities involves measuring of lengths, calculations of areas, volumes, or counting the
no of pieces depending on the nature of work and items used.
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Linear measurement
Linear measurements are taken in perimeter computation. To calculate the area of sanding plaster plastering
surface and edge for both external and internal walls the perimeter of the building has to be computed first.
L1

L2 0.5 m

There are four approaches for computation of the perimeter

1. Separate (individual) wall method
In this method the out – to- out measure it taken for longer walls and into – to in measure for shorter walls.
For instance, L1 = 15 m
L2 = 12 m
t = 0.5 m
L1 = 15 m and l2 = 12- 2(0.5) = 11m
There four perimeter = 2 (L1 ) + 2 (l2 ) =2 (15) + 2 (11 ) = 52
This method is applicable when t is constant, i.e the thickness of walls are equal.
2. Center line method
In this method the perimeter is equal to the sum of total length of centerlines of booth longer and shorter
walls.
L1 = 15-2( ½ ) ( 0.5 ) = 14.5m
L2 = 12- 2( ½ ) ( 0.5 ) = 11.5m
There four perimeter =2(L1) + (L2) = 2(14.5)+ 2 (11.5) = 52 m
3. External length
The sum of all external dimensions less the thicknesses of all corners gives the perimeter
P = 2 (L1 + L2 ) -4( t ) = 2 (15+ 12 ) -4( 0.5 ) = 54 -2 = 52 m
4. Internal lengths
Perimeter equals to sum of internal dimensions plus the thicknesses of the corners
P = 2 ( l1 + l2 ) + 4 ( t ) = 2 ( 14 + 11) + 4 ( 0.5 ) = 50 + 2 = 52 m

Example 2 calculates the perimeter of the following figure using different methods.

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 2.60 3.8 2.6

0.3 m
6m

Solutions
1. perimeter = 2 (9) + 2 (5.4) + 2 (1.5) = 31.8 m
2. perimeter = 8.70 + 2 (5.7) + 2 (1.5) + 2(2.30) + 4.1 = 31.8 m
3. perimeter = 2 (9+ 6) + 2 (1.5) - 4 (0.3) = 31.8 m
4. perimeter = 2 (8.4 +5.4) + 2 (1.5) + 4 (0.3) = 31.8 m
Area measurement
In works like plaster finishing a real measurement is required. While measuring the area of the irregular plot
the irregular area is broken into a number off regular figures that best describe the irregular plot and the areas
of the regular figures is computed and summed to give the area of the irregular one.
B. General Formula for plastering

1. Lime Mortar Mix Ratio = 1:4

Let volume of Lime mortar = Y m3

Then

i. Lime = 1/5 x Y m3 x 1900Kg/ m3 x 1.2 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 479Kgs Y

= 0.25 m3 Y

ii. Sand = 4/5x Y m3 x 1840Kg/ m3x 1.2 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 1855Kgs Y

= 1855/1840 m3 Y

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 = 1.01 m3 Y

2. Cement Mortar Mix Ratio = 1:4

Let volume of Cement mortar = Wm3

Then a) Cement = 1/5 x W m3 x 1400Kg/ m3 x 1.25 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 368Kgs W

= 0.26 m3 W

b) Sand = 4/5x Wm3 x 1840Kg/ m3x 1.25 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 1932Kgs W

= 1932/1840 m3 W

= 1.05 m3 W

3. Compo Mortar Mix Ratio = 1:2:9

Let volume of Compo-mortar = Um3, Then

i. Cement = 1/12 x U m3 x 1400Kg/ m3 x 1.20 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 147Kgs U

= 0.105 m3 U

ii. Lime = 2/12 x U m3 x 1900Kg/ m3 x 1.20shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 399Kgs U

= 0.21 m3 U

iii. Sand = 9/12x Um3 x 1840Kg/ m3x 1.20 shrinkage x 1.05 Wastage

= 1739Kgs U

= 1739/1840 m3 U

= 0.95 m3 U

a) Cement mortar plaster on walls per 10 square meters

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Proportion 12mm thick with 15mm thick with 20mm thick with 25mm thick with
of Cement 20% wastage 15% wastage 12% wastage 10% wastage
Mortar 3 3 3 3
mortar=0.144m mortar=0.172m mortar=0.22m mortar=0.144m
Cement 3 Cement(kgs) Sand Cement Sand Cement Sand
Sand(m )
(kgs) 3 (kgs) 3 (kgs) 3
(m ) (m ) (m )
1:3 66.15 0.14 79.10 0.17 102.9 0.22 114.84 0.25
1:4 53.00 0.15 63.80 0.18 82.43 0.24 92.00 0.26
1:5 44.10 0.16 52.68 0.19 68.60 0.25 76.56 0.27
1:6 37.80 0.16 45.15 0.19 58.80 0.25 65.62 0.28

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 COST ESTIMATION AND UNIT RATE ANALYSIS FOR BUILDING July 2, 2010

b) Compo Mortar plastering on walls per 10 square meters.

12mm with 20% wastage 15mm with 15% wastage 20mm with 12% wastage 25mm with 10% wastage
Proportion of
mortar = 0.144m3 mortar = 0.172m3 mortar = 0.224m3 mortar = 0.25m3
compo-mortar
Cement Lime Sand Cement Lime Sand Cement Lime Sand Cement Lime Sand
(kgs) (Kgs) 3 (kgs) (Kgs) 3 (kgs) (Kgs) 3 (kgs) (Kgs) 3
(m ) (m ) (m ) (m )
1:1:6 31.75 43.09 0.14 37.93 51.47 0.16 49.39 67.03 0.21 55.13 74.81 0.24
1:1:8 25.40 34.47 0.15 30.34 41.18 0.17 39.51 53.63 0.23 44.10 59.85 0.25
1:2:9 21.17 57.46 0.14 25.28 68.63 0.16 32.93 89.38 0.21 36.75 99.75 0.24
½:2:6 14.94 81.13 0.13 17.85 96.89 0.15 23.24 126.18 0.20 25.94 140.82 0.22

c) Lime – Mortar Plastering on walls per 10 square meters

Proportion 5mm thick with 15% wastage mortar = 10mm thick with 15% 12mm thick with 15%
Of 3 3 3
0.0575m wastage mortar = 0.115m wastage mortar = 0.138m
Lime Mortar
Lime Sand Lime Sand Lime Sand
(Kgs) 3 (Kgs) 3 (Kgs) 3
(m ) (m ) (m )
1:2 45.88 0.048 91.77 0.097 110.12 0.116
1:3 25.36 0.054 50.72 0.109 69.86 0.130
1:4 27.54 0.058 55.09 0.116 66.10 0.139

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 1.5.2. Rendering

a) Cement mortar rendering on walls per 10 square meters with 20%

wastage mix proportion 1:3

3 2
1) Mortar = 0.06m /10m

1.1) Cement = 27.56 Kgs

1.2) Sand 3
= 0.06m
b) Cement mortar rendering on walls per 10 square meters with 20%

wastage mix proportion 1:4

3 2
1) Mortar = 0.06m /10m

1.1) Cement = 22.08 Kgs

1.2) Sand 3
= 0.06 m

1.6. Materials appropriate to the work application

1.6.1. Undercoat Plaster

When plastering walls, getting the undercoat plaster layer right is an important part of the process. This will
be the base onto which you will apply the finishing plaster and needs to properly applied and sound or all the
hard work you put into finishing the wall will be a waste of time. This guide will take you through the
process of applying undercoat plaster on the average-sized domestic wall step-by-step.

What is undercoat plaster used for?

An internal base coat plaster used to build up a suitable thickness of plaster before skim finishing with a
Thistle skim finish plaster. Suitable for use on a wide range of internal backgrounds, including brick,
blockwork and most smooth or low-suction backgrounds.
What’s the Difference Between Plastering and Skimming?

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Plastering
Contrary to popular belief, plastering is the term offered to the whole trade. This means that skimming is
really a method that a plasterer utilizes, rather than plastering and skimming being totally separate terms.
Plasterers perform great deals of different types of plastering and need to be very well-informed in their
trade. For example, some materials need more coats of plaster than others, and there are lots of different
methods associated with doing a good job.

There are different kinds of plasters that plasterers must understand how to use:

 Cement plaster: Made from cement, sand and water and generally used on walls where masonry
work has been done

 Lime plaster: Made from lime and water

 Gypsum plaster: Made with water and calcium sulphate

1.6.2. Skimming

Skimming is the name provided to a plastering method where a wall is plastered with a layer of thin coat. It
is usually applied to an existing plaster to smooth the surface area The white layer of lime which is used to
rough cement is called a skim coat.

The plasterer uses various methods to make the surface area smooth, and it might depend on the tradesman’s
proficiency. So overall, skimming is a subset of plastering. They are both used to decorate structures and
increase the durability of a wall, but skimming is done to update an old building whereas plastering is done
to a new one. Another difference between skim and plaster is that plaster surface areas are constantly rough
whereas a skimmed surface area is smooth.

Finishing plaster, the same as skimming plaster?

They are both used to decorate structures and increase the durability of a wall, but skimming is done to
update an old building whereas plastering is done to a new one. Another difference between skim and plaster
is that plaster surface areas are constantly rough whereas a skimmed surface area is smooth.
1.6.3. Beads

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Plasterers’ beads have become an indispensable part of plastering operations. Use of the appropriate beads
greatly reduces the time taken in forming sharp corner joints, ends stops and other details. Moreover, they
offer protection and reinforcement to vulnerable plaster edges.

1.6.4. Cement render

Cement rendering is the application of a premixed layer of sand and cement to brick, concrete, stone, or mud
brick. It is often textured, colored, or painted after application. It is generally used on exterior walls but can
be used to feature an interior wall.

Preparing the Wall

Check the wall to make sure that there is no sign of damp or mold. If there is, this should be treated before
you start to plaster.
Applying Undercoat Plaster
Applying undercoat plaster evenly over a large area can be difficult so it is usually a good idea to divide the
wall up into sections using battens nailed to the block or brickwork. As long as the battens are all the same
thickness, they can also be used as a guide for the plaster depth.
Self-check (Unit one)

Part 1: choose the best answer

1. ------- an unplanned, non-controlled, and an undesirable event or a sudden mishap which interrupts
an activity or a function.

A. Accident C. Unsafe Act

B. Injury D. All

2. ---------is the bodily hurt sustained as the result of the accident.

A. Accident C. Unsafe Act

B. Injury D. All

3. -----------a departure from an accepted, normal or correct procedure or practice, an unnecessary

exposure to a hazard, or conduct minimizing the degree of safety normally present.

A. Accident B. Injury

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 C. Unsafe Act D. All

4. it is the least effective method for protecting workers from hazards.

A. Accident C. First aid box

B. Injury D. PPE

5. -------is the name provided to a plastering method where a wall is plastered with a layer of thin coat.

A. Skimming C. Coating
B. Beading D. All

Part2: write the short answer

1. Write the difference between Barricading and safety signage?

2. List plastering tools and equipment and their purpose?
3. How many type of plastering?

Unit two: Coat internal and external walls, ceilings, angles, reveals and joints
This unit is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content coverage
and topics:
 Tools and materials
 Type of coating plasterwork to walls and ceilings
 Internal and external plaster coat angles, reveals and expansion joints
 Coat internal, external angle and joints
This unit will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the coverage. Specifically, upon
completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 select and identify tools and materials
 Apply One-, two- and three-coat plasterwork to walls and ceilings are finishing (vertical,
horizontal, inclined and curved) to solid backgrounds and board backgrounds
 Apply Internal and external angles, reveals and expansion joints to contractor’s working

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 instructions

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 2.1. Materials and Tools
2.1.1. Plastering Materials
The properties of plaster in both fresh and hardened states depend to a large extent on the properties of the
materials used. This section gives guidance on selecting materials.
Plastering material
A. Cement
B. Lime
C. Sand
D. Bonding aids
E. Water
F. Plastering reinforcement (Lath and bead)
A. Cement
What is cement?
 Material with adhesive and cohesive properties
 Any material that binds or unites essentially like glue
Function of cement
 to bind the sand and coarse aggregate together
 to fill voids in between sand and coarse aggregate particle
 to form a compact mass
The Following are the different types of cement used in construction works
1. Rapid Hardening Cement
Composition- Increased Lime content
Purpose: Attains high strength in early days it is used in concrete where form work are removed at an early
stage.
2. Quick setting cement
Composition: Small percentage of aluminum sulphate as an accelerator and reducing percentage of Gypsum
with fine grinding
Purpose: Used in works is to be completed in very short period and concreting in static and running water
3. Low Heat Cement

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Composition: Manufactured by reducing tricalcium aluminate
Purpose: It is used in massive concrete construction like gravity dams
4. Sulphates resisting Cement
Composition: It is prepared by maintaining the percentage of tricalcium aluminate below 6% which
increases power against sulphates.
Purpose: It is used in construction exposed to severe sulphate action by water and soil in places like canals
linings, culverts, retaining walls, siphons etc.
5. Blast Furnace Slag Cement
Composition: It is obtained by grinding the clinkers with about 60% slag and resembles more or less in
properties of Portland cement
Purpose: It can use for works economic considerations is predominant.
6. High Alumina Cement
Composition: It is obtained by melting mixture of bauxite and lime and grinding with the clinker it is rapid
hardening cement with initial and final setting time of about 3.5 and 5 hours respectively
Purpose: It is used in works where concrete is subjected to high temperatures, frost, and acidic action.
7. White Cement
Composition: It is prepared from raw materials free from Iron oxide.
Purpose: It is costlier and is used for architectural purposes such as precast curtain wall and facing panels,
terrazzo surface etc.
8. Colored cement
Composition: It is produced by mixing mineral pigments with ordinary cement.
Purpose: They are widely used for decorative works in floors
9. Pozzolanic Cement
Composition: It is prepared by grinding pozzolanic clinker with Portland cement
Purpose: It is used in marine structures, sewage works, sewage works and for laying concrete under water
such as bridges, piers, dams etc.
10. Air Entraining Cement
Composition: It is produced by adding indigenous air entraining agents such as resins, glues, sodium salts
of Sulphates etc. during the grinding of clinker.

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Purpose: This type of cement is especially suited to improve the workability with smaller water cement
ratio and to improve frost resistance of concrete.
11. Hydrographic cement
Composition: It is prepared by mixing water repelling chemicals
Purpose: This cement has high workability and strength

B. Lime

Building lime is produced by burning a naturally occurring form of calcium carbonate (such as limestone,
chalk or sea shells) to form quicklime by driving off carbon dioxide. This is done using a kiln and the
process was once commonplace across Scotland. Currently building lime is supplied in bag form. The
quicklime is mixed with water (this can produce a vigorous reaction which generates heat) to form lime
putty in a process known as slaking. This is a skilled procedure requiring specialist training.

To differentiate between how lime mortars work, they can be classified as either non-hydraulic or hydraulic.

Non-hydraulic lime comes in two forms – a dry powder or putty. Lime putty is most commonly used for
internal plastering, and the dry powder (more commonly known as builder’s lime) is used as an additive to
cement mortars to improve workability.

Hydraulic lime is produced from a limestone which contains clay-based minerals. Hydraulic lime is
available as a dry powder. It is commonly used for external work as it can withstand more aggressive
conditions on buildings.

C. Sand

Sand is by far the major constituent of plaster and has a significant influence on its performance and material
cost.

In Ethiopian, natural sands i.e. pit, river and dune sands, are almost invariably used. An important
requirement is that sand should be free of organic matter such as roots, seeds, twigs and humus. This is an
absolutely essential requirement in the case of white or pigmented plasters.

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If sand includes lumps that are not easily broken between the fingers, it is not ideal for use in plaster; if such
sand is to be used, then such lumps should be removed by sieving. Crusher sands are not generally suitable
for use in plaster due to their angular particle shape. However, crusher sands have been used successfully in
rich mixes for special applications such as plastering of squash court walls and pipe linings, and limestone or
marble crusher sands are commonly used, with white cement, for plastering swimming pool shells.

The use of ash as aggregate is also not recommended unless the ash has been thoroughly tested and proven
to be sound.

Important physical properties of sands are:

A. Clay content
B. Grading
C. Maximum particle size
D. Particle shape
A. Clay content

Only a small proportion of clay can be tolerated in sand used in plaster. Clay normally causes a high water
requirement and high drying shrinkage.

 Sands with high clay content may generally be recognized as follows:

 The fraction that passes a 0.075-mm sieve* can, after being moistened, be rolled into a thread about 3
mm or less in diameter.
 Plaster mixes made with such sands:
 Are very “fatty” and tend to cling to a trowel
 Have a high water requirement.

B. Grading

Ideally, the sand should have a continuous grading, from dust up to the largest particles. The fractions
passing the 0.150mm and 0.075mm sieves* (“fines”) are important because they significantly influence the
water requirement, workability and water retentively of the mix *Such sieves are expensive and normally

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found only in laboratories. For a field test, place a few handfuls of dry sand in the foot of a nylon stocking
and tie it closed. Shake the sand and collect the dust in a bowl.

Increasing these fractions results in increased water requirement (with consequent lower strength and higher
shrinkage), but improved workability and water retentively. The optimum fines content is therefore a
compromise between these properties. For plasters, a sand lacking in fines may be used with hydrated
builder’s lime, mortar plasticizer, or masonry cement, or it may be blended with a fine filler sand.

Sand with excessive fines may be improved by washing or by blending with suitable coarser sand. The
coarser sand could be crusher sand provided that the resulting plaster is suitable for the application, and it
gives acceptable results.

C. Maximum particle size

For conventional smooth plaster, all the sand should pass through a sieve with 2.36mm openings. For
coarsely textured decorative work, the corresponding sieve size is 4.75 mm. Oversize particles (and lumps)
should be removed by sieving.

D. Particle shape

Ideally, for good workability, the particle shape should be nicely rounded and the particle surface texture
should be smooth.

The particle shape of natural sands tends to be rounded due to weathering whereas that of crusher sands
tends to be angular or flaky. Some river sands, however, contain newly weathered particles with a rough
surface texture and angular particle shape. These particles are normally in the coarser fraction of the sand
and should be screened out.

D. Chemical Admixtures

Chemical admixtures are sometimes used in plaster mixes to improve workability and water retentively. The
use of all admixtures must be properly controlled in order to avoid adverse consequences.

The most commonly used admixtures are so-called “mortar plasticizers” which are in fact air-entraining
agents. On no account should they be used with masonry cements.

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 Bonding aids

Bonding aids (or bonding liquids) are often used in plaster mixes, and in spatter dash for bonding plasters to
their substrates. These must be used strictly in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

They can be very effective in improving bond but only if the substrate has been properly prepared. By no
means are they a substitute for a good surface preparation and workmanship.

They also impart good workability to the mix but overdosing can lead to low strength.

E. Water

Water fit for drinking is generally suitable for making mortar. Substances in water that, if present in water
that, if presenting large amounts, may be harmful are: salt, oil, industrial wastes, alkalis, sulphates, Organic,
Matter, silt sewage etc.

Water-used in mortar mixes has two functions. The first is to react chemically with the cement which will
finding set and harden, and the second function is to lubricate all other materials and make the mortar
workable.

F. Plastering reinforcement
I. Lath
II. bead
I. Lathing: lath is adopted to provide foundation for plastering work. Laths are also providing for
plastering thin partition walls and for plastering ceilings

Metal Lath

Metal lath is perhaps the most versatile of all plaster bases. Essentially a metal screen, the bond is created by
keys formed by plaster forced through the openings. As the plaster hardens, it becomes rigidly interlocked
with the metal lath.

Three types of metal lath are commonly used:

 Diamond mesh (expanded metal),

 Expanded rib, and

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  Wire meshes (woven wire).

Diamonds mesh

The terms “diamond mesh” and “expanded metal” refer to the same type of lath. It is manufactured by first cutting
staggered slits in a sheet and then expanding or stretching the sheet to form the screen openings. The standard
diamond mesh lath has a mesh size of 0.8cm by 1.5cm. Lath is made in sheets of 68.6cm by 2.44m and is packed
10 sheets to a bundle (16.7square meters). Diamond mesh lath is also made in a large mesh.

This lath may be nailed to smooth concrete or masonry surfaces. It is widely used when re-plastering old walls
and ceilings when the removal of the old plaster is not desired. Another lath form is paper-backed where the lath
has a waterproof or Kraft paper glued to the back of the sheet. The paper acts as a moisture barrier and plaster
saver.

Fig.2.1.1.diamond mash

Expanded rib

Expanded rib lath (fig. 7-4) is like diamond mesh lath except that various size ribs are formed in the lath to
stiffen it. Ribs run lengthwise of the lath and are made for plastering use in 0.32, 0.95, and 1.9cm rib height.
The sheet sizes are 68.6cm to 2.44m in width, and 12.7, 25.4, and 3.66m lengths for the 1.9cm rib lath.

Fig.2.1.2.Expanded rib

Wire mesh
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 Woven wire lath (fig. 7-4) is made of galvanized wire of various gauges woven or twisted together to form
either squares or hexagons. It is commonly used as a stucco mesh where it is placed over tar paper on open-
stud construction or over various sheathing.

Fig.2.1.3. Woven wire

II. Bead

Plasterers’ beads have become an indispensable part of plastering operations. Use of the appropriate beads
greatly reduces the time taken in forming sharp corner joints, ends stops and other details. Moreover, they
offer protection and reinforcement to vulnerable plaster edges.

General installation information

 Beads should be fixed using plaster or render dabs or a suitable mechanical fixing at a maximum of
600mm canters
 Beads may be wire tied to the face of metal lathing backgrounds
 Use tin snips or shears to cut to size
 When jointing angle beads use a dowel inserted in the nose to ensure continuity and alignment
 Avoid damage to beads when towelling plaster or render
 Stainless steel beads are specifically designed for cement-based renders and should not be used with
gypsum-based plasters unless they are specified with an approved protective finish
 Epoxy/polyester coated galvanized steel beads, with PVC nosing, are designed for external use only in
sheltered or moderate environments. Similar usage restrictions also apply to the Expamet 570 Render
Stop.
 Joints in Plaster Over Building Movement Control Joints:

Method 1
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Fix one stop bead down the side of the building movement joint, levelling with the timber grounds.

When this bead is set, fix the second bead into position using timber inserts to control the required gap. Also
levelling to the timber grounds.

When both beads are set, remove timber inserts and complete the plastering. Fill the gap with flexible
sealant.

Method 2

Plaster stop beads used with insert to make a bead for building movement control joint. Use timber batten
wired to beads to set up gap width. On removal of the timber batten flexible sealant can be used as required.
Width of gap determined by the flexible nature of sealant and expected masonry movement. Metal bead for
internal use only

The colors shown on this page are representative of the actual colour and will vary slightly to the product
due to the printing process.

Movement bead

Used where the underlying substrate changes, or where minor movement in the structure beneath the render
is expected. Movement beads can also be used where changes in render colour are specified. Movement
beads should NOT be used over structural movement joints (see page 4, Joints in Plaster over Building
Movement Control Joints).

Fig.2.1.4.Movement bead

Angle bead

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For use on all plastered or rendered corners where a true, sharp corner is required. Protects and reinforces
plaster where it is most vulnerable.

Fig.2.1.5. Angle bead

Note: Plastering tool refer content 1.4

2.2. Type of coating plasterwork to walls and ceilings

2.2.1. Introduction
Plastering is the process of covering rough surface of walls, columns,ceilings and other building components 
with thin coat of plastic mortars toform a smooth durable surface. 
The coating of plastic materials (i.e. mortar) is termed as plaster.
Purpose of Plastering:
1. Plastering is done to achieve the following purpose
2. To protect the external surface against penetration of rain water and other atmospheric agencies.
3. To give the smooth surface in which dust and dirt cannot lodge.
4. To give decorative effect.
5. Conceals inferior quality materials and defective workmanship,
6. To protect surface against varmint.

2.2.2. Type plaster coat

Plastering consists of three separate coats of plaster.
1. First coat/ rendering coat/ /scratch coat
2. Second coat/ floating/ brown coat
3. Third coat/ finish coat
The first two, called the brown or floating and scratch or rendering coats, are coarse, often with sand,
horsehair, and other binders added to the mix.

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The third or finish coat is a smoother blend, made of water and finely ground lime and plaster
Plaster thickness
Recommended thicknesses are:
 First undercoat/scratch coat/rendering/: 10-15 mm
 Second undercoat/brown coat/floating/: (if any): 5-8mm
 Finish coat/set coat/: 3-5 mm
If plaster is applied in a single coat, thickness should be 10-15 mm. A single
coat should not be thicker than 15 mm.
2.2.3. Surface Preparation
This section deals with the preparation of the surface to which the plaster isapplied, i.e. the substrate. Aspects 
discussed are substrate properties;
 techniques of surface preparation; and 
 methods of preparing different types of surface.

Surface properties required for successful plastering
The surface to be plastered should be accurately positioned overall andzones should not deviate excessively fr
om a plane (or curved) surface.Ideally, the substrate should be rough; absorbent to a limited extent; strongand 
clean, i.e. free from any film, such as dust, oil or paint that could impairbond between plaster and substrate.
The more accurate the substrate the easier it is to meet these requirements.
Roughness improves adhesion by providing a positive “key” for plaster togrip. 
Absorption removes the water film, between substrate and plasterthat would tend to weaken adhesion.
Excessive absorption will however dry out the plaster.The strength of the substrate material should be greate
r than,or equal to, that of the hardened plaster.Before any plastering commences, all chases should be comple
ted and allelectrical and plumbing conduits, boxes, etc, should be fixed in position.
Techniques of preparing surfaces

I. Accuracy

In a new work, surface preparation starts with accurate setting out andconstruction of walls and soffits
The aim should be to provide a surface that can be plastered to therequired lines and levels by applying a coa
t (or coats) of uniform thickness. Excessively thick plaster or plaster of uneven thickness should not be relied

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 on to hide inaccurate work.
Where zones of the substrate surface deviate from the required plane (orcurved) surface by more than about 
10 mm, the first option is to removehigh areas by hacking or cutting. 

II. Strength
For new work, masonry units strong enough to survive handling andtransport prior to being built in should be 
strong enough to hold plaster. Similarly, in situ concrete should have ample strength. In some 
cases, it is necessary to plaster existing walls of soft clay brick.
III. Roughness
Background surfaces should ideally be at least as rough as coarse sandpaper or rough-sawn timber.
Surface roughness can be achieved in one of the following ways:
 Using formwork with a rough surface, e.g. sawn timber, for substrate concrete
 Stripping formwork early and wire brushing concrete
 Hacking
 Abrasive blasting (e.g. sand blasting)
 Raking out mortar joints in masonry substrates to provide a key. 
 A depth of about 10 mm is normally adequate.
 Applying a spatter dash layer
Spatter dash is a mixture of one part of cement to one and a half parts ofcoarse sand with enough water for a 
sluggishly pourable consistence. 
IV. Cleanliness
Surfaces must be free of loose material, such as dust, and films that caninterfere with bonding, such as curin
g compounds.
Substrate surfaces may be cleaned by:
 Water jetting
 Blowing with (oil-free) compressed air
 Vacuum cleaning
 Brushing
Solvents should not be used to remove films formed by curing compounds.(Such films must be removed by 
mechanical means.)

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 V. Absorption
First assess absorptiveness by throwing about a cupful of water against the surface. 
The surface will fall into one of three categories:
a. No water is absorbed.
b. Some water is absorbed but most runs off.
c. Most of the water is absorbed.
Category A. Surfaces, which would include hardburnt clay face bricks,
glazed bricks and very dense highstrength concrete, should be prepared byapplying a spatter dash coat that i
ncludes a polymer emulsion. Such surfaces must not be rewetted.

Category B. Surfaces should not require any treatment to control suction.

Category C. Surfaces should be wetted thoroughly for at least one hour andthen allowed to become saturate
d surface dry before the plaster is applied.

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Types of Mortars for plastering:
The selection of type of plaster depends up on the following factors. Availability of binding materials,
durability, finishing requirements and weather conditions.
1. Lime mortar:
The line used for plastering may be either fat line or hydraulic line. However, fat line is preferred
since it yields good putty after slaking. Hydraulic line Contains particles which slake very slowly
as it comes in contact with atmospheric moisture; such slaking may even continue for 6 to 8
months.
If un slaked particles remain in such a plaster, blisters are formed during the process of slow
slaking. Thus, the plastered surface gets damaged.
Hydraulic line yields harder and stronger surface
The mix proportion (i.e. lime: sand) varies from 1:3 to 1:4 for fat line and 1:2 for hydraulic line.
2. Cement mortar
Is the best mortar for external plastering work an as it is practical nonabsorbent? Much stronger
than lime mortar. The mix proportion (cement: sand) may Vary from 1:4 to 1:6
The sand used for plastering should be clean, Coarse and angular. Before mixing water, dry
mixing is thoroughly done. When water is mixed, the mortar should be used with 30 minutes of
mixing, well before initial setting takes place.
3. Lime- Cement mortar:
 Have both the properties of lime mortar as well as cement mortar.
 Addition of lime to cement imparts adequate plasticity resulting in smooth plastered
surface.
 Mix proportions (cement: lime: sand) generally used are: 1:1:6, 1:1:8 or 1:2:8
 Number of coats of plaster.
 The back ground over which plastering is to be done depend up on the type of wall
construction, such as random rubble (R.R) masonry, brick masonry, and cement block
work etc. Different thickness of plaster is required for different types of back grounds.
 Plastering is, therefore, can be applied in one, two, or three coats.
 Plaster in one coat is applied only for inferior work, since it causes heavy shrinkage and
Consequent cracking. Generally, line plaster is applied in three coats while cement plaster
is applied in two coats.
  The first coat (under-coat or rendering coat) provide means of Leveling uneven surface. 10
to15 mm thick.
 The second coat (floating coat) serve as an intermediate coat. Average thickness is 6 to
9mm.
 The third coat (setting or finishing coat) provider smooth surface and is about 2 to 3 mm
thick.
 If plastering is done in a single coat only, its thickness should lie between 6 and 12mm.
Batching
Batching sand by loose volume is satisfactory. Batches based on whole bagsof cement are preferabl
e. The size of the batch should, however, be smallenough for it to be used up 
within about two hours.
Mixing the plaster
This may be done by machine or by hand. Machine mixing is preferable andhighly recommended.H
and mixing should be done on a smooth concrete floor or steel sheet. 
 All mixing equipment should be cleaned before use to prevent contamination.
 Pour the required amount of water into the mixing bucket (see selector chart for details).
Only add clean water and do not use any additives.
 First spread out the sand about 100 mm thick. 
 Spread the cement uniformly overthe sand. 
 Mix sand and cement until the colour is uniform. 
 Then gradually add water while mixing until the right consistence is reached.

2.2.4. Application of plastering in different coat

First coat: has to provide sufficient bonding. Stipple or spatter dash can be used on all
backgrounds, but especially on impervious and smooth background. Leave these coats rough to
provide a key.
Second coat: To be applied two days (or more, depending on weather conditions) after
completion of first coat. Its strength should be less than the first coat.
Third Coating: Apply a nice, even coat, working perpendicular to the wall. Straighten it all up
in clean strokes. Keep your body horizontal to the wall while you work vertically, up and down
across the ceiling. Try to move in a uniform manner so that you don’t miss any areas
A. Lime plaster:
After preparing the back ground, lime plastering can be applied in three or two coats.
Three coat plaster:
a) Application of rendering coat or scratch coat
 The mortar is forcibly applied with mason’s trowel and pressed well in to the joints and
over the surface.
 The thickness of coats should be such as to cover all inequalities of the surface. The
normal thickness is 12mm.
 This surface is allowed to slightly harden and then scratched crisscross with the edge of
trowel. Then, the surface is allowed to set for at least 7 days.

b) Application of floating coat or brown coat:

 The rendering coat is cleaned of all dirt, dust and other loose mortar droppings.
 It is lightly wetted.
 The mortar is then thrown with mason’s trowel, spread and rubbed to the required plain
surface with wooden float.
c) Application of finishing:
 Consists of cream of lime applied with steel trowel, rubbed and then smooth finished.
 Applied immediately after the floating coat.
Two coat plaster:
 In case of two coat plaster, the rendering coat is a combination of the rendering and
floating coat of the “three coat plaster” and is done under one continuous operation except
that the scratching of rendering coat as specified in three coat plaster is not done.
 The total thickness may be about 12mm
 Finishing is applied in a manner Similar to three coat plaster.

B. Cement plaster and Cement-lime plaster

a) Two- Coat plaster
  Backing ground is prepared by racking the joints, cleaning the surface and well-watering
it.
 If the surface to be plastered is very Uneven, a preliminary coat is applied to fill up the
hollows before the first coat.
 Then the first coat or rendering coat of plaster is applied. In order to maintain uniform
thickness of plaster screed are formed of plaster on wall surface by fixing dots of 15cm
size of 2m interval.
 The rendering is kept wet for at least 2 days, and then allowed to dry completely.
 Before applying the final coat, the rendering coat is damped evenly.
b) Three coat plaster:
 The procedure similar to two-coat plaster except that an intermediate coat known as
floating coat is applied. It provides even surface.
c) Single-coat plaster:
 Used only in inferior quality work.
 Special materials are used in plastering or over the plastered surface to meet some specific
requirements of the finished surface; such as to increase durability, for better appearance,
fire proofing, sound insulation etc

Applying the plaster

When sequencing building activities, it is highly recommended that the roof is clad before
plastering starts. Never work in direct sun. Plastering should be protected from the sun and drying
winds. If it is necessary to plaster walls exposed to the sun, especially in hot or windy conditions,
then special precautions may be needed to protect the plaster on the wall from sun and wind to
reduce the risk of cracks in the plaster.
The plaster should be used up within two hours of being mixed and never be retendered by mixing
in additional water.
Ensure that plaster is not continuous across the line of a damp proof course. Plaster should be cut
through to the substrate where different substrate materials meet, e.g. masonry and concrete.

The general procedure for applying plaster is as follows:

For accurate work, apply screed strips before the wall is plastered. These are narrow strips of plaster
along the perimeter of the wall, or at suitable intervals on the wall, that act as guides for the striker
board.
Using a rectangular plasterer’s trowel, apply plaster onto the wall or ceiling using heavy pressure to
compact the plaster and ensure full contact with the substrate. The plaster should be slightly proud
of the intended surface.

Once the plaster starts to stiffen It should be struck off to a plane (or curved) surface using a light
striker board. Material removed in this way should be discarded.
If plaster is to be applied in more than one coat, the undercoat(s) should be scored with roughly
parallel lines about 20 mm apart and 5 mm deep. The purpose of scoring is two-fold; to provide a
key for the next coat and to distribute cracking so that it is less noticeable.

For the final coat, use a wood float to remove ridges made by the striker board. At the same time
fill in any depressions and float flush with the surrounding plaster.
If a very smooth texture is required, a steel trowel may be used on the surface. Very smooth
surfaces are, however, not generally recommended because they tend to craze and show
imperfections.
Various decorative finishes are also possible. Techniques include brushing, flicking plaster onto
the surface and lightly floating, etc.
In the special case of soft burnt clay brickwork, plaster should be applied as follows:

If mesh reinforcement or metal lathing is to be used, nail it to the wall using galvanized nails
driven through the spatter dash coat and use spacers to keep it away from the wall. Apply the first
coat of plaster again
This first coat is used to achieve a plane surface. (In some cases it is necessary to use two coats to
achieve this).
It must be well scratched, cured for at least two days and allowed to dry.
The scratching, followed by the drying period, distributes shrinkage cracks.
Apply the final coat of plaster, using the same mix or preferably a slightly leaner mix. Striking off
and finishing are done as described previously.
Preparation
1. Brush down the background to remove all loose materials and dust etc. to give a good sound
background.
2. Remove all mortar snots from joints, internal and external angles.
3. Make a key, if needed to the background.
4. Test the background for suction (splash some water on the surface and see how quickly it gets
sucked into the background).
5. Treat if necessary.
6. Place drop boards at bottom of wall to catch any material that is dropped. This can then be re
used.
7. Fix any timber wall and sole plates as necessary. This stops the plaster cracking and falling off
the wood.
8. Fix any angle beads that are required.
9. Set up the spot board and stand.

Method of working

 BROAD SCREEDS.
 Use on small areas.
 Does not give the highest standard of work but better than freehand.
 Apply screed to corner of wall and rule off.
 Keep depth of material to no more than 11mm.
 Place another vertical screed in other corner and rule off.
 Fig.2.1. screed
DOT AND SCREED
 Can be used on long or high walls.
 Use if the finished work has to be absolutely plumb.
 Gives the highest standard for tolerance purposes

Fig.2.2. screed

1. Place a dot of material near an internal angle, place a lath in the dot.
Dot should be about 300mm away from adjoining wall.
 2. Place a second dot at the bottom of the wall, place a lath into the dot.
Dots should be about 2.5m apart.
3. Plumb in the two dots using a floating rule.
4. Either tap in or bring the wood out until the two dots are in line

Plaster Base Testing

General Testing of Plaster Bases
The wipe and scratch tests serve to assess the properties of the plaster base as to whether there are
foreign materials present or surface areas that flake, peel or dust.
Making spot checks, the wipe test is performed with a flat hand whereas a hard, pointy object is
required for the scratch test. With the help of the wetting test, it is possible to find out about the
absorbency and moisture content of the plaster base.
The wetting test is performed by sprinkling several spots with pure water. If it is desirable to take
accurate measurements of the remnant moisture, a sample can either be tested by a material
testing laboratory with CM equipment or by the drying test. The sample needs to be taken from a
depth of at least 2 cm (0.78 in). A crown drill with a minimum diameter of 25 mm (0.98 in) needs
to be operated at very low rpm in order to take the sample without heating the material too much.
2.3. Internal and external plaster coat angles, reveals and expansion joints

2.3.1. Expansion Joint Plastering

What is a plaster expansion joint?

Expansion joints are incorporated in a building to allow movement in the structure which
the plasterboard is fixed to. Plasterboard surfaces should be isolated from structural
elements by installing

2.3.2. Expansion joint

Expansion Joints when; Plaster surface abuts any structural element or different wall
type.
Expansion joints are incorporated in a building to allow movement in the structure which
the plasterboard is fixed to. Plasterboard surfaces should be isolated from structural
elements by installing Expansion Joints when;

 Plasterboard surface abuts any structural element or different wall type

 Long partition or wall runs

 In continuous ceiling areas

Applying plaster to walls may seem like a daunting task, but you will have seen from earlier
articles that, providing the right techniques are practised and used, professional-quality finishes
can be quite easily obtained on both exposed brick and plasterboard surfaces.

In these earlier articles, plastering was confined to flat, uninterrupted surfaces, but, in practice
there will usually be a certain amount of finishing off needed at internal and external corners, and
around door and window openings. You will need to learn a few more techniques to deal with
these, although the method of applying the plaster, and the tools for doing so, are basically the
same as those detailed previously with a few exceptions.

2.3.3. Internal angles plastering

You are likely to meet two types of internal angle when plastering. The first is where your newly-
plastered wall meets an existing hard plaster surface on the adjacent wall, and the second is where
both adjacent walls are being plastered simultaneously.

Where you have a hard surface to work to. Apply your floating coat to the wall in the normal
manner. Then rule the plaster outwards from the corner, using the wooden rules vertically instead
of horizontally. Key the plaster well with a devilling float and then cut out the internal angle. This
is done by laying the trowel flat against the finished surface so that it is at an angle of 30 to 40° to
the vertical and then moving it into the corner until the tip of the toe cuts into the fresh plaster.
Move the trowel up and down the angle and then repeat the procedure with the trowel flat against
the floated surface and its tip against the hard plaster. This will cut out the corner cleanly. Leave it
to harden.

2.3.4. External angles

Although it is possible to finish off external corners freehand, considerable skill would be needed;
for the do-it-yourself there are two simple methods which will produce successful results without
too much trouble. Probably the easiest of these is to use a metal angle bead, which has the added
advantages of allowing simultaneous plastering of both walls and providing an extremely durable
corner. The other method is to use a timber rule to form first one side of the angle and then the
other.

The metal angle bead will provide a true, straight arras that will not chip. It comprises a hollow
bead, flanked by two bands of perforated or expanded metal lath. Two versions are available: one
that will take the full thickness of a floating and finishing coat of plaster, and another that is
shallower for use with plasterboard. The latter is called a ‘thin coat’ bead.

2.3.5. Door and window reveals

The narrow strips of wall at door and window openings, which are normally at right angles to the
main wall surfaces, are known as reveals. They may also be found at the sides of a chimney breast
or on a plain pier.

Actually forming the corner in this is straightforward, using the methods described previously.
However, there are two points which require special attention. These are the depth of the reveals
and the thickness of plaster, or ‘margin’, at the frame or back wall. It is essential that the depth of
the reveal is the same all the way round the opening and that the plaster is the same thickness
across the reveal. This will ensure that a uniform amount of frame remains visible.
Trowelling internal plaster corners is a great plastering skill to learn. It’s important to know if you
want to plaster a room yourself. We’ll teach you how to fill and reinforce the gaps. You’ll also
learn how to give the plaster a smooth finish and get it ready for painting.

How to plaster internal corner

 Check your wall is straight.

 Cut the external angle.
 Attach the external angle using a staple gun.
 Attach the external angle with a hammer.
 Mix up the plaster for your base coat.
 Apply the base coat of plaster.
 Smooth the surface and apply the second coat.
 Apply plaster to the face of your wall.

How to plaster External corner

 Fill the gaps in the internal plaster corner.

 Mix some plaster base coat in a bucket until it has the consistency of toothpaste.
 Reinforce the internal plaster corner with paper tape.
 Cut a piece of paper tape to the height of your wall.
 Apply a top coat to the internal plaster corner.

In building construction, an expansion joint is a mid-structure separation designed to relieve stress

on building materials caused by building movement induced by: thermal expansion and
contraction caused by temperature changes, sway caused by wind, seismic events, etc.

Expansion joint systems are used to bridge the gap and restore building assembly functions while
accommodating expected movements.

The term “movement joint” has been widely adopted in preference to “expansion joint” as it more
appropriately encompasses the fact that building movement results in both compression and
expansion of the material installed.
For example, when a structure heats up, the building materials from which it is built expand. This
causes the “expansion joint” to close down, thereby compressing the expansion joint system
installed in the gap.

In an effort to sculpture the mass of a building in an unrestricted manner, designers in the recent
past eliminated as many joints as they possibly could. Today this design error is obvious:
unsightly cracking of both exterior and interior surfaces constructed of cementitious products.

An expansion joints with expanded webbing abutting the joint ensures secure embedment and
gives the installer the option of using either wire ties or nails to secure the joint to the basic
supporting frame. A return lip eliminates shrinkage separation between the surface material and
the joint.

Plastering Corners

Any wall that has an external corner needs to have an angle bead fixed in place before plastering
can commence. If you have a wall with no external corners, then have a go at plastering this one
first.

Then when you have got to grips with the basics the angle bead will be fairly straightforward.
Self-check (unit one)
Part 1: choose the best answer

1. Which one of the following incorrect about cement?

A. to bind the sand and coarse aggregate together
B. to fill voids in between sand and coarse aggregate
C. fill the open space of course aggregate
D. All
2. ---------is the process of covering rough surface of the wall, columns, ceilings and other
building components with thin coat of plastic mortars to from a smooth durability surface.
 A. Panting C. Pointing
B. Plastering D. Skimming

3. Which one of the following is the purpose of plastering?

A. To Unprotect the external surface against penetration of rain water
B. To give the smooth surface in which dust and dirt cannot lodge.
C. To give decorative effect.
D. B and C
4. ----------the process of measuring the amount of sand?

A. Mixing
B. Batching
C. Measuring
D. All
Part 2: write short answer
1. Mention and explain the types of metal lath?
2. List type of plastering coats and their purpose?
3. List and describe the techniques of preparing surfaces?
4. Describe types of Mortars for plastering?
5. How to testing of plaster bases?
Operation sheet 1: applying internal and external plastering and edge

 Operation title: applying internal and external plastering and edge

 Purpose: To practice and demonstrate the skill, knowledge and attitude required to applying
internal and external plastering and edge
 Instruction: Use the given tools and equipment to applying internal and external plastering and
edge. For this operation you have given 8Hour.
 Tools and requirement
1. trowel 7. float
2. chisel 8. bucket
3. hammer 9. spade/shovel/
4. builder square 10. string
5. straight edge 11. plumb bob
6. meter
  Precautions: when applying internal and external plastering and edge take precaution
against weather and use correct procedure.
Procedures in doing the task

1. Preparing back ground

2. Broad screeds(fasha)
3. Use on small areas.
4. Does not give the highest standard of work but better than freehand.
5. Apply screed to corner of wall and rule off.
6. Keep depth of material to no more than 11mm.
7. Place another vertical screed in other corner and rule off.

Fig.2.1. screed

DOT AND SCREED

1. Can be used on long or high walls.
2. Use if the finished work has to be absolutely plumb.
3. Gives the highest standard for tolerance purposes
4. Place a dot of material near an internal angle, place a lath in the dot.
Dot should be about 200mm away from adjoining wall.
5. Place a second dot at the bottom of the wall, place a lath into the dot.
Dots should be about 2.5m apart.
6. Plumb in the two dots using a floating rule.
7. Either tap in or bring the wood out until the two dots are in line
 Fig.2.4. screed
LAP test

Name: _____________________________ Date: ________________

Time started: ________________________ Time finished: ________________

Instructions: Given necessary templates, tools and materials you are required to perform the
following tasks within 8hours.
Task 1: Applying internal and external plastering and edge
Reference
 Barricading and Signage Document Number – OHS-PROC-134
 Corrosion of Steel in Concrete: Understanding, Investigation and Repair, Taylor &
Francis, New York, NY, USA, 2nd edition, 2007.
 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION HANDBOOK Tenth edition Roy Chudley and Roger
Greeno
 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION HANDBOOK Seventh Edition R. Chudley MCIOB and
R. Greeno BA (Hons) FCIOB FIPHE FRSA
 Construction Materials Third Edition Edited by J.M. Illston and P.L.J. Domone
 Building construction (part 1 by Getachew Yimer)
 Building construction (by Dr B.C.Punmia)
 Building construction (by Sushil Kumar)
 Text book of Building construction (by Abebe Dinku)