Should I seal new plaster with PVA?

You’ve just had a room in your house newly plastered and you’re wondering, should I seal new plaster with PVA?  Is this a good idea? Keep reading to find out.

Can I seal new plaster with PVA glue?

The simple answer is no. It’s not a good idea to seal new plaster with PVA glue.

If you do, the PVA glue will start to flake off in just a few months. This will cause damage to the final layers of paint, and you will need to redecorate.

How should I seal new plaster?

The best way to seal new plaster, once it is completely dry, is to use a watered-down coat of good quality emulsion paint.

This will provide an adequate seal to the plaster and then you can finish it off with two coats of pure emulsion for the best results.

Want tips for sealing new plaster with paint? Check out our guide on how to paint on new plaster.

When is PVA used in plastering and decoration?

You would typically apply PVA to a wall around 24 hours before plastering. You can then apply a second coat of PVA just before plastering.

This second coat of PVA should be left to go tacky but not dry before plastering.

Using this method improves the plasters adhesion and helps to create a more durable finish.

Can I plaster a room myself?

If you’re a confident DIYer, you may want to try plastering a room. Plastering, however, is a highly skilled trade and requires a good level of strength and fitness.

At Checkatrade, we always recommend using a trained professional for the best results.

To find qualified and vetted plasterers in your area, simply enter your postcode into the box below.