Had a 1910 plastered hallway that had some settling cracks in it. Although cracked, the walls and plaster were sound and adhering well. Plasterer came and painted with a bonding agent, put some type of scratch coat on and then skimmed with new plaster. Within 1 day I noticed slight hairline cracks branching out EVERYWHERE on the walls – they are covered with them. The cracks are not necessarily in the same locations as the original underlying cracks and they are also much more numerous than what was underneath. Needless to say I am discouraged and the plasterer is long gone with his money. Any ideas on what has happened (something not drying right?) Also – would an elastomeric paint hide these hairline cracks? Thanks in advance.
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I agree with the bonding agent but not the scratch coat. Scatch coats are usually applied to the lath as a base for the plaster. You already had the plaster. I did a big restoration last year. House built in 1878 and it was in terrible shape. The plaster guys I hired did the following. Bonding agent on everthing. Screwed all large cracks on both sides using plaster washers. We used 1500 plus washers. Fibre taped every crack then replastered. Let set for 30 days then oil primed. Did a beautiful job. Doesn't solve your problem but for future repairs it might come in handy. I don't think you want to know what you have to do to repair what has been done. I believe your into more work than you had originally unless someone has a miracle cure. Sorry...
Gary...
Sounds like the process was correct but your plasterer did not have enough accelerator in the scratch coat or the scratch coat was too dry when the white coat was added. One of these two will result in fine cracks. I assume the nominal thickness achieved was 1/8"- 3/16". Keith