How To Fix A Falling Plaster Ceiling

Plastering is a nice way to give a textured look to the ceiling. Although it looks very beautiful with textured plaster, the ceiling treated this way becomes susceptible to cracks. In the worst case, the plaster may start falling from the ceiling, if it is not installed properly or if its grows old. It is suggested to repair the damaged plaster ceiling, as soon as you find a small portion falling from the ceiling. Small areas can be easily patched up with the help of a joint compound, tape and sheet rock. Learn how to fix a falling plaster ceiling in this article.

How To Repair Falling Plaster Ceiling

Things Required

Sheetrock
Sheet rock cutter
Tape
Mud (Joint Compound)
Putty Knife
Drywall Knife
Drywall Tape
Ladder
Drop Cloths
Gloves

Procedure

Before carrying out the repair, you should check for any leaks. Ensure that the ceiling is dry, because the past leaks or the old age of the plaster may be the factors making it fall. Before repairing falling plaster, fix the leak.
Climb up the ladder and inspect the affected area and the size of the damage. Check for any cracks or a gaping hole in the ceiling. Touch the damaged portion so that you know depth of the damage.
Remove the furniture directly placed under the damaged ceiling and cover the floor with drop cloths.
Remove the loosened and damaged plaster from the ceiling, making use of a putty knife for the purpose.
Strike the surface of the plaster, with the putty knife, deeply along a straightedge. This way, the old plaster will come off in a straight line. Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals of the plaster and the dust.
Cut a rectangular or square piece of the sheet rock, using the sheet rock cutter. Now, secure the sheet rock by screwing it into the ceiling joist. Make sure that you have purchased the sheet rock of appropriate thickness. A 3/8-inch thick sheet rock will be the right choice in this case.
Add strips of drywall tape to it, so that the sheet rock remains stable on the ceiling joist.
With the help of a six-inch drywall knife, apply a layer of mud along the seams of the ceiling. Press the drywall tape firmly into the mud, using the drywall knife. Cover the screws dimple with the tape.
Wait for 24 hours, so that the mud dries completely.
Apply a thin coat of the joint compound (mud) over the seams once again. This time, make use of a 10-inch drywall knife to smoothen the seams.
Wait for another four to eight hours, so that the layer of mud dries completely.
Apply the mud to the portions surrounding the repaired area of the ceiling as well. This will give a uniform appearance.
Repaint the entire ceiling.

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