flaking plaster on a ceiling Ask your questions and find answers on many subjects relating to plastering and dry lining

[tcj]

I have a ceiling that has been papered. Taking some paper off, the plaster underneath has lots of cracks, so that the plaster looks as if it is "flaking" off. The cracks are running in straight lines, possibly along where plasterboard sheets join.

Is the answer to replace the ceiling or can we fill / replaster the ceiling??

Tim

[kbrownie]

You can replaster it, the boards have started to sag which has caused the cracks, this is not unusual as ceilings used to be nailed up and the weight of the board + plaster would force nails to pull away. You now need to find all you timber joist and screw (not nail) the ceiling back up tight, then tape over all cracks. Then it can be replastered, alternative if ceiling is not fit to replaster. Is board over the hole ceiling this will mean you will not need pull it down (messy Job) and plaster over that or joint fill.
KB

[TheDoctor5]

Last year 64% of the questions asked in our forum were answered within our DIY project pages at www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects.htm The project pages are now separated alphabetically and your answers are accompanied by diagrams and the ability to see, and buy, the tools and/or required to complete your project. Use our search box to look for your answer and save a great deal of time and money!