Cost Guide to Plastering for New Zealand Homes (2023)

In the ever-evolving world of home design and construction, the finish of a home’s interior and exterior can significantly influence its overall appeal and value. Plastering, an age-old technique, remains at the forefront of achieving sleek, durable, and sophisticated surfaces in New Zealand homes.

But as we step into 2023, with economic shifts, material availability, and the continuous push towards sustainable practices, homeowners are keen to understand the financial implications of choosing plastering for their abodes. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner looking to add a touch of elegance to your new space or a seasoned property developer keeping up with the latest cost trends in the industry, our comprehensive guide delves deep into the current cost landscape of plastering in New Zealand.

From labour rates to material choices and regional cost variations, we aim to equip you with a clear and concise understanding of what to budget for in the coming year. Dive in as we unpack the insights and factors influencing plastering costs in NZ.

What is Plaster?

Plaster, a versatile and ancient building material, has adorned and protected structures for thousands of years. At its core, plaster is a mixture of lime or gypsum, sand, and water. When applied wet, it hardens upon drying, creating a smooth, durable, and seamless surface ideal for both interiors and exteriors.

But plaster isn’t just about its functional properties; it’s also about aesthetics. It provides an elegant finish and creates a canvas ready for painting or other decorative treatments. The beauty of plaster lies in its adaptability. It can be used to craft intricate decorative mouldings, cover brick or blockwork, or serve as a base for artistic frescoes.

Modern plasters incorporate various elements to improve workability and durability. While the essence of plaster remains consistent, its composition can vary based on the desired finish and the specific needs of a project. As we delve deeper into the intricacies of plastering in New Zealand homes, it’s essential to appreciate the foundational role plaster plays in crafting beautiful and resilient homes.

What Type Of Plaster Is Best For My Needs?

There are different types of plasters for homes. The choice largely depends on the specific needs of your walls and what you aim to achieve with the finish.

Traditional Sand And Cement Plaster

Starting with one of the most conventional methods, the traditional sand and cement plaster is a time-tested solution that provides a robust and sturdy finish to walls. It is primarily a mix of sand, cement, and water, sometimes combined with lime to increase its workability and durability. This type of plaster is particularly known for its strength and is generally applied on exterior walls, which need to withstand the harsh weather conditions of New Zealand. It also acts as a decent insulator, making homes warmer during the colder months.

Plastering Over Most Substrates

For those unfamiliar with the term, a substrate in plastering refers to the surface or material underneath the plaster, such as brick, wood, or even previously painted walls. Plastering over various substrates requires a keen understanding of the materials involved. Some substrates might need a bonding agent or a primer before plastering to ensure proper adhesion. New Zealand homes, with their varied construction styles, might require specialised plasters to get that perfect finish. So, when in doubt, consulting a professional plasterer can provide clarity on what plaster would best suit the existing substrate of your home.

Dry Plaster

Dry plaster or dry lining refers to the process of attaching a plasterboard or wallboard to the interiors of a home, followed by a finishing skim of plaster. This method is significantly faster than the traditional wet plaster methods and is ideal for those who are looking to get the job done quickly. Dry plaster provides a smooth finish, is ready for decorating, and is highly favoured in many modern New Zealand homes. Moreover, it offers additional insulation and soundproofing benefits, making it a good choice for internal partition walls.

Cost Of Plastering

One of the primary concerns homeowners in New Zealand often grapple with is understanding the costs associated with plastering. Navigating through various plastering rates in NZ, from materials to labour, can be a challenging task, especially for those new to the process. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing:

Material Cost

The cost of plastering materials can vary based on the type of plaster being used, and the quality of the materials. Traditional sand and cement plaster might be relatively less expensive than specialised plastering materials meant for specific substrates. Additives, primers, or bonding agents that might be needed for certain surfaces will also add to the cost.

For homeowners wanting to get a rough estimate of the plastering cost for their property, there are tools like the plaster cost calculator that factor in the type of plaster, square footage, and other details to provide a ballpark figure.

Labour Cost

Labour costs can often be the more significant part of the plastering budget. The plasterer hourly rate in NZ can vary based on experience, expertise, and the complexity of the job. While some plasterers might charge a fixed rate, others might have plastering prices per m2. On average, considering the diverse range of projects and complexities, the plasterer hourly rate in NZ ranges from $20 to $60. Speaking of area, one could expect to pay $35 to $55 plastering prices per m2. But remember, the cheapest isn’t always the best. It’s essential to ensure that the plasterer you’re hiring is skilled and comes with good recommendations.

Another factor that influences labour costs is the location of the property. Rates might be higher in bustling city centres compared to suburban or rural areas. It’s also worth noting that intricate designs, high ceilings, or challenging wall conditions might push the labour costs higher.

What Factors Influence The Cost Of Plastering?

The process of plastering involves more than just the application of plaster to walls. While the raw material and labour costs contribute to the primary expenses, several other elements can influence the overall price you might end up paying for a plastering project. Being aware of these factors can help you understand the quotations provided by plasterers, ensuring that you’re getting value for your money.

1. Removal of existing plaster or wallpaper:

Before plastering can commence, it’s essential that the walls are prepared appropriately. If a wall already has plaster or wallpaper on it, it needs to be removed to ensure a smooth and efficient application of the new plaster. This removal can sometimes be labour-intensive and time-consuming, especially if the existing plaster is old and adhering firmly to the wall. This initial step can add to the overall cost, depending on the extent and difficulty of the removal process.

2. Wall size:

The dimensions of the wall or walls to be plastered are a significant factor in determining the cost. Plastering on large surfaces requires morebb and longer hours of labour. Additionally, it’s not just about the height and width of the walls; the overall square footage, including any nooks, crannies, or irregular shapes, can increase the amount of plaster needed and the complexity of the task.

3. Detailing:

A plain wall without many intricacies is easier and faster to plaster than one with multiple fixtures, fittings, or intricate designs. Walls with a lot of detailing, like ornate mouldings, recessed windows, or built-in shelves, demand extra attention and precision. The intricate work can be time-consuming, requiring skilled craftsmanship, which can elevate labour costs.

Furthermore, other considerations can also influence the pricing. The choice of plaster, the accessibility of the location, the season, and even regional variations can play roles in determining costs.

How To Plaster A Wall Yourself (DIY)

Plastering a wall or ceiling can seem daunting, especially if you’re tackling it for the first time. Before diving into the nitty-gritty of How To Plaster A Wall Yourself (DIY), it’s essential to understand the basics.

Plastering involves preparing your wall surface, mixing the plaster to the right consistency, and applying it evenly for a smooth finish. The tools you’ll need include a trowel, mixing bucket, plaster, and possibly a hawk for holding the plaster as you work. The key is to ensure the wall is clean, free of dust, and primed for the plaster. While this overview touches on the preliminary steps, we’ll delve deeper into the full process, providing a step-by-step guide to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Step-To-Step Guide to Plastering a Wall

With the right tools, knowledge, and a bit of patience, you can plaster your walls. This easy guide to plastering a ceiling yourself breaks down the process step by step, ensuring you can embark on this DIY project with confidence. So, let’s get started.

1. Preparation

Before you begin, ensure that the room is clear of furniture or it is adequately covered to protect it from dust and plaster splashes. For personal protection, wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask. The wall or ceiling should be clean, free from dust, and as smooth as possible. If you’re re-plastering, remove any loose plaster or flaky paint.

2. Choose the Right Plaster

For walls and ceilings, you’ll typically use a gypsum-based plaster. There are different types available, so ensure you read the label to find the most suitable one for your surface.

3. Mixing the Plaster

In a clean bucket, pour some clean water and then add plaster to it. Using a drill with a mixing paddle attachment makes this task easier. Mix until you achieve a creamy, lump-free consistency. It’s always better to mix a little at a time to avoid wastage.

4. Applying the First Coat (Undercoat)

Using a plasterer’s trowel, start applying the plaster to the wall or ceiling. For ceilings, it might be handy to have a “hawk” tool to hold a good amount of plaster. Spread the plaster evenly, working it into all areas. If you’re working on a ceiling, start from one corner and move methodically to ensure even coverage.

5. Smoothing Out

Once the entire wall or ceiling has its first coat, go back to the starting point and begin smoothing out using a clean trowel. Hold the trowel at a slight angle and apply a bit of pressure, ensuring there are no lumps or lines.

6. Applying the Second Coat (Finish Coat)

After the undercoat is slightly set (typically after 20-30 minutes, but this can vary), you can apply the finishing coat. This layer should be thinner than the undercoat. Again, ensure a smooth and even application.

7. Final Smoothing

With the second coat applied, wait another few minutes and then smooth out any imperfections. A wet trowel or a specialised smoothing tool can be helpful here. Remember, the smoother the finish, the less sanding you’ll have to do later.

8. Drying and Sanding

Let the plaster dry completely. Depending on the conditions, this can take a day or two. Once dry, any minor imperfections can be sanded out using fine-grit sandpaper. Always wear a mask when sanding to prevent inhalation of the dust.

9. Painting or Decorating

Before you paint or wallpaper over your newly plastered wall or ceiling, it’s essential to apply a primer or a mist coat of paint. This seals the plaster and provides a suitable surface for the final decoration.

10. Clean Up

Plaster can be messy, so ensure you clean up promptly. Wet plaster can be washed away with water, but once it sets, it becomes hard and can be tricky to remove.

DIY Plastering or Professional Service?

DIY plastering projects can seem like a cost-effective solution, and for those with a knack for hands-on tasks, it might even be an enjoyable challenge. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential pitfalls. DIY plastering can be incredibly time-consuming, especially for novices. There’s also the risk of mistakes – uneven finishes, bubbles, or cracks which can emerge later.

On the other hand, hiring a professional guarantees a smooth, flawless finish. Professionals bring years of experience, the right tools, and the expertise to handle unexpected challenges. So, while DIY might offer personal satisfaction and initial cost savings, if you’re looking for a polished result with fewer headaches, going professional is a worthy investment.

Interior Plastering in Auckland

Professional interior plastering in Auckland is not just a service; it’s an art form. Every home is unique, and each room within it has its own identity. Plastering plays a pivotal role in magnifying the innate beauty of these spaces. When the walls of a room are smooth, even, and flawlessly plastered, they become the perfect canvas for interior decorators and homeowners to express their style.

A professional touch ensures that every edge is neat, every corner is sharp, and every surface is ready to paint or cover, enhancing the room’s aesthetic manifold. In Auckland, where design and elegance matter, the gib-stopping cost in NZ reflects the meticulous care, precision, and expertise required to achieve these high standards.

While there might be a temptation to cut corners, remember that professional plastering provides a distinct finish that elevates interiors, making spaces look expansive, rich, and truly sophisticated. Every dollar invested in professional plastering accentuates the features of your home, making it a reflection of your tastes and preferences.

Exterior Plastering in Auckland

Auckland’s beautiful homes deserve exteriors that mirror the elegance of their interiors. Professional exterior plastering does precisely that. Beyond providing an even surface, professional plastering services in Auckland employ advanced materials and innovative techniques that ensure walls remain smooth and free from cracks, even in the face of New Zealand’s unpredictable weather patterns.

This approach of exterior plastering in Auckland is more than aesthetic; it’s about protecting the home. When plaster is applied expertly, it acts as a shield against moisture, wind, and the rigours of time. The exterior plastering is not just about covering the surface; it’s an investment in advanced protection for your home.

The beauty that professional plastering imparts to exteriors makes homes stand out. It provides a polished, sophisticated look that resonates with Auckland’s architectural ethos. In a place where first impressions matter, professionally plastered exteriors ensure your home always makes a grand statement. The exterior plaster cost in NZ covers all these factors.

Conclusion

In wrapping up our comprehensive guide on plastering costs for New Zealand homes in 2023, it’s clear that plastering is more than just a utilitarian task; it’s an investment in your home’s aesthetics, longevity, and overall value. The choices between DIY and professional services, interior and exterior plastering, and the various techniques available all play a crucial role in determining the final outcome and costs involved.

While DIY may seem attractive initially, the expertise and finesse offered by professionals often outweigh the initial savings, especially when considering the longevity and beauty of the finish. Auckland, with its unique architectural landscape, particularly emphasises the importance of quality plastering. As homeowners, understanding the intricacies of plastering rates, the significance of choosing the right method, and the benefits of professional services ensures that your investment is both informed and valuable.

In the dynamic housing market of New Zealand, a well-plastered home stands out, not just in its visual appeal but also in its market value. As we move further into 2023, may your homes be as smooth, protected, and beautiful as the finest plastered surfaces.

Get in touch today – Book Consultation – or call us directly on 09 390 7634 to speak to the team