Ready Mixed Plaster Skim & Repair is suitable for repairs on plaster and plasterboard prior to dec...Ready Mixed Plaster Skim & Repair is suitable for repairs on plaster and plasterboard prior to decorating. It has excellent wet adhesion making it easy to apply, will not slump on vertical surfaces and can be easily smoothed. It will cover holes up to 3mm deep but for larger cavities Ready to Use All Purpose Filler should be used followed by Plaster Skim & Repair.
Directions:
Surfaces should be sound, dry, clean and free from damp, dust and grease. Surfaces painted with gloss should be sanded to provide a key.
Nail heads in plasterboard should be knocked below the surface level and covered with an oil-based paint to prevent rusting.
Apply the plaster skim to the surface using a large brush, trowel or other suitable spreader.
After the initial setting the surface can be smoothed over using a wet trowel.
Alternatively, the surface can be allowed to dry thoroughly and smoothed down using fine sandpaper.
When the surface is dry, it can be painted or wallpapered over. Surfaces should be sealed with a plaster sealer or sealer/PVA mix before wallpapering.
The Bartoline Ready Mix Plaster Skim Repair is designed for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking to achieve a smooth finish on plaster and plasterboard surfaces before decorating. Its key benefit is excellent wet adhesion and non-slump properties, making application easy and neat on vertical surfaces. A key consideration is its depth limitation; it's best for holes up to 3mm, with larger cavities requiring a different product beforehand.
All features
Colour
White
Model Part Number
PL2502
Brand
Bartoline
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Can I use this for deep holes?
This product is designed for shallow repairs up to 3mm deep. For larger cavities, you should use a dedicated all-purpose filler first, and then apply the Bartoline Ready Mix Plaster Skim Repair over the cured filler for a smooth finish.
How long does it take to dry?
Drying time varies depending on application thickness, temperature, and humidity. Generally, it will be ready for light sanding or smoothing within a short period, and fully dry for decorating within a few hours. Always ensure it is completely dry before painting or wallpapering.
Do I need to prime before painting?
While not always strictly necessary, it is recommended to prime the repaired area, especially if using different paint types or colors, to ensure an even finish and good adhesion of the topcoat.
Can this be used on exterior surfaces?
The product description specifies suitability for plaster and plasterboard prior to decorating, implying interior use. It is not designed for exterior applications.
How should I store the product?
Store the Bartoline Ready Mix Plaster Skim Repair in its original, unopened container in a cool, dry place. Protect it from frost.
What is the best way to achieve a smooth finish?
You can smooth the plaster skim with a wet trowel immediately after application. For an even finer finish, allow it to dry completely and then sand it down with fine-grit sandpaper.
Troubleshooting
Plaster skim is not adhering well to the surface.
Ensure the surface was properly prepared: clean, dry, and free from dust or grease. Glossy surfaces should be sanded. For plasterboard, nail heads should be treated.
The filler is cracking after drying.
This usually indicates the fill was too deep. For cracks or holes over 3mm, use a deeper filler first before applying the skim coat. Ensure subsequent layers are not applied too thickly.
Difficulty in smoothing the surface.
Try smoothing with a wet trowel while the plaster skim is still wet. If dry, use fine-grit sandpaper. Ensure you are not overworking the area.
The product is drying too quickly.
Work in smaller sections and apply only what you can comfortably smooth within the working time. Ensure the ambient temperature is not excessively high.
Pros and Cons
Pros
No mixing required, saving preparation time.
Good adhesion to plaster and plasterboard.
Resists slumping on walls, leading to a neater finish.
Can be smoothed easily for a professional look.
Provides a suitable surface for subsequent decorating.
Cons
Limited to filling holes up to 3mm deep.
Larger repairs require a multi-step process.
Requires surface preparation for optimal adhesion.
May require sanding for a perfectly smooth finish.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Preparation is Key:
Surface Check: Ensure the surface is sound, dry, clean, and free from dust, grease, or dampness.
Glossy Surfaces: If painting with gloss, lightly sand the surface to create a better grip for the filler.
Nail Heads: For plasterboard, sink nail heads slightly below the surface and cover them with an oil-based paint to prevent rust marks.
Application:
Apply the ready-mixed plaster skim using a large brush, trowel, or spreader.
For holes up to 3mm deep, apply directly.
For larger cavities, use a suitable all-purpose filler first, then apply this product over the dried filler.
Finishing:
While the plaster skim is still wet, use a wet trowel to smooth the surface.
Alternatively, allow the product to dry completely and then smooth it down using fine sandpaper.
Compatibility:
Suitable for use on plaster and plasterboard.
Once dry, can be painted or wallpapered over.
Important: Before wallpapering, seal the surface with a plaster sealer or a sealer/PVA mix to ensure proper adhesion of the wallpaper.
Care:
Store in original, unopened container in a cool, dry place.