Author: Matt Morgan
A plasterer is someone who works with their hands, and one
who works in this field should generally like to work with
people and in the outdoors. A plasterer will mix and apply
many different types of plaster to walls, floors and
ceilings in the preparation for decorating. A plasterer
works either alone or in part of a team in dealing with
three types of plastering work in the field.
Solid Plastering- This type of plastering is where the
plasterer would apply wet finishes to whatever surface they
are working on. They would then apply protective coverings
to the surface.
Fibrous Plastering- Using a mixture of plaster and short
fibers, the plasterer creates ornamental plasterwork. This
might include the creation of ceiling roses, columns and
archways.
Dry Lining- This part of the job is for fixing the internal
plasterboard or wallboard partitions. To do this, the
plasterer fastens them together on a timber or metal frame.
They would then be ready for decorating.
A plasterer uses a variety of tools and trowels to apply
the plaster they are working with. Those who are working on
fibrous plastering would be following a design that was
created by an architect or interior designer. A plasterer
can work on many different types of jobs; form a small
residential home to large scale buildings. They may also
work on repairs and restorations of old buildings and
structures.
A plasterer applies the plaster by using many different
types of tools, including different sized-trowels,
depending on the surface area they are working with. With
fibrous plastering, one would follow the designs that have
been created by an architect, artist or interior designer.
As a plasterer, you may be employed on big commercial
developments, or you could work on small-scale domestic
jobs, repairs and restoration.
Work Environment
Those who choose plastering as a career can expect to work
mainly indoors on their jobs. Some may work outside
applying decorative exterior finishes. A plasterer may use
scaffolds to work high off of the ground. Plastering can be
a demanding and physical job. It will require much
standing, lifting, bending and reaching. Plasterers
sometimes complain of neck, back and shoulder cramps and
muscle strains. A plasterer should always use protective
coverings for their eyes, nose and mouth, and wear gloves
as well. Plastering can cause much dust, and it is
imperative to protect ones skin and lungs.
Education and training
Some schools offer technical schools or vocational schools
which may or may not offer courses that can help in this
field.
Most plasterers start out their career by working with a
contractor who can give them training on the job. Workers
can start out as helpers or laborers, and may start out by
being what is sometimes known as a "go-fer". Some
employers, if happy with a person's work, may send them to
a vocational school or college classes to further their
occupation. A formal way of on the job training is called
an apprenticeship.
Employment
Those who choose the career as a plasterer can expect it to
be a fast growing one. The job prospect outlook is
excellent, as there will always be building and developing
underway, making a plasterer a necessary job. A career in
the job of a plaster can be profitable, busy and rewarding.
About the Author:
For complete information on plastering courses and other
plastering qualifications available, visit Able Skills
Construction Training:
http://www.ableskills.co.uk
