Can a DIYer successfully fix a bulging ceiling and apply skim coating, or is professional help necessary for our budget-strapped situation?
Our house is pretty old, it was built back in the late 30s. In our living room, we’ve got this original ceiling that’s seen better days. There was a leak a while back that caused a part of it to start bulging. The previous owners tried to cover it up with this super textured plaster, but now it’s starting to crack. We’re thinking of fixing it ourselves to save some money. We’ve tackled scraping ceilings before, so we know the drill there. But I’m wondering, is fixing the bulge and skim coating something that we could handle as diyers? This house has been draining our funds, so hiring a pro is really not an option for us right now. The estimate we got was way out of our budget, and it looks like we’ll have to wait a few more years before we can afford it.
I’m facing a similar situation. The texture is the same, but my ceilings are made of drywall. I considered using a drywall sander to smooth them out, but I’ve decided to remove it all, put up new drywall, and finish it on my own. I suggest redoing the entire thing instead of attempting to scrape and apply a skim coat.
I really don’t want to remove the plaster and lathe in our house. It was built by an architect for his family and business, so it’s really well-made and I want to maintain its integrity. Plus, the plaster and lathe provide great insulation and we really need that in this harsh environment. I understand your frustration with dealing with a similar situation. It’s crazy to think that people actually found that texture appealing! 😂
The issue here is that your ceiling is made of lathe and plaster. The plaster keys are breaking away from the lathe, particularly in areas where there are bulges.
Do you think I would be able to fix this on my own, or should I seek help?
If you find anything loose, go ahead and remove it. Fill in any deep cracks and holes with a firm mix of Durabond. After that, smooth out the rest for a clean finish. It’s possible to do it yourself with a bit of knowledge and effort.
Thanks, ! I’ll search for information on Durabond.
Be cautious of asbestos.
Heather Joy, I’ve already had it checked. The only asbestos present is in some insulation around pipes in our basement water room.