Plastering for Beginners FLOAT and Set

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

If you would like to support the channel you can make a donation HERE👇 www.buymeacoffee.com/alexmorley

[@adamroberts7789]

You are brilliant at your job mate vert informative and top quality I watch you and a few others on here I learnt to plaster through KZbin and it’s thanks to people like you putting the time and effort in to show us how it’s done great video again

[@gorringeman]

There's not enough on floating and I've always found it tricky, great video as usual!

[@carlbayley9053]

I float my walls using bonding with 10% multi finish in, never had any issues, been going 25 years, good video m8.

[@kirkmanchemistry7758]

Thanks for the video. One of the best yet explaining each step. Much appreciated.

[@coolhandluke540]

Ya forgot to mention the stink bomb smell as the hardwall is curing. Love hard walling. Sets real plasterers and skimmers( only onto board work) apart. Hardwall100% all the way. Good job mate.

[@jonaredtyke]

need a banana Darby!!

[@traian23us]

Very relaxed compared with all other plasterers I’ve seen. Most certainly you make your life a lot easier by doing so

[@Danny-ql2ep]

I throw at straight edge diagonally over the wall aswell. Always find it helps get it spot on.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Good suggestion. Thanks Danny.

[@JayG2K]

Ive just done a wall today. Cement renderd. chipped of the top skim, SBR, then bonding coat. I actually used the refina spat as well!

[@steved6472]

Nicely done! Ignore the utube experts!

[@paulfleming8348]

Great vid, I’ve watched quite a few of your video’s really impressed. Very good at explaining the process. I’ve been plastering over 10 years now and I’ve picked up lots of great advice from your videos. Keep up the videos mate. If your ever in need of work I’m based in seaford and work from Eastbourne to brighton. Take it easy. Paul

[@dannyhardy3295]

If you left the hardwall to dry for a few days, can you just apply PVA and then plaster?

[@billdavies7243]

Yes

[@jamesgriffiths3265]

You can but be very careful not to get caught out by the suction, as it can be very unpredictable after a few days. Best off skimming same day. Failing that, several coats of SBR before skimming to safeguard against cracking risk.

[@patrickm8275]

Great video Alex. Definitely a time a place for a sponge float. I know there are a lot of spreads who don't rate them but handy in cases like this and when the suction pulls it out of nowhere. Interested to try that New MT trowel and give it a crack myself 👍

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

It’s a great trowel. Been really happy with it.

[@andypdq]

Hi Alex, I've been plastering for years as a general builder, I probably do two days a month, so I class myself as an amateur, but I understand plasterers jargon. A beginner will have no idea what you're talking about when you say you need to wait for it to "Pull in" or what to do when it's time to "close in". A video decrypting plasterer's jargon may be helpful for the beginner. In my humble opinion you have the best plastering channel on YT. Thanks for sharing

[@thetallcarpenter]

I absolutely agree😎

[@andymcdonald8922]

You make a valid point, however I'm a diyer and I understand everything he said. I think most people attempting plastering would have watched a few videos on the subject before getting to this one, and I'm pretty sure this wouldn't be their first project! I'm sure I'd have an absolute disaster 😂😂😂

[@jaythomas8572]

Thanks for your knowledge 🙏🏾

[@georgeomalley6066]

Nice simple explanation 👍

[@MarcusT86]

Amazing video buddy! Any reason you didn’t use sand and cement instead of Hardwall? And are those squiggly lined on the right of the wall on 26:00 from you testing to see how much it’s pulled in?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

We only use sand and cement if there is a concern over waterproofing. Light weight backing plaster like hardwall is designed for masonry backgrounds. No gain really in using S&C. They were squiggle’s from my fingers which was cut out of the final take. But yes testing the moisture on the wall.

[@cryptorick1674]

I dont think iv ever seen such a simple wall made to look so difficult

[@darrenquarterman2611]

Just spotted your steps best on the market in my opinion there adjustable just bought couple pairs

[@MarkHopewell]

Thank you for this helpful perspective. A couple of notes - not criticisms but concerns:- 1) Please take care of your back (less stooping and bending at the waist). 2) You're coughing and having to clear your airway quite a bit. I suspect you don't smoke but given your occupation, have you thought about a check up with your GP to review lung function or airway (bronchi) check?

[@johnny6722]

Hi Alex, quality video ,very well explained. What sponge float do you recommend using when using d as sponge finish.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Personally for larger sponges 18” Medium. Refina are very good. For a standard 12” float the ones from Wickes are fine.

[@homefrontforge]

26 years a drywall finisher, lately dabble with small plaster jobs. Start to think I know a thing or two, watch a video like this....realize I know nothing.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Every day is a school day. Generally I have found the more you learn about a subject the more you realise how much more there is to learn.

[@hupra72]

Brilliant video. You explanation of things is great. Keep them coming.

[@TheAbbomk]

Really nice finish my friend. Great vid may I add, very informative

[@stuartrudland6239]

Brilliant informative video. Thanks. Pro presenting also 👊

[@kainejoyes2981]

Your Sprayer on the window-still….great vid thanks, keep the, coming…plugs, switches and awkward angles?

[@paulgamble5634]

I would take down the nail depth for the scratch, you should get less bubbles. The scratch float depth seams like key for render.

[@whitefields5595]

Alex, thank you for making these vids. Can you please be more specific on mix thickness and timings. You are a bit vague on how long each coat should be left for and how you decide it is set enough, by indentation test, etc. Great help for us DIYers though!

[@glenmiles6279]

You are good,you are my friend.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Thanks for the support on the channel.

[@Jonbuildz]

8:15 - Noticed there is a slight pattern off the speedskim, are you not concerned given the second coat will just apply straight over this and that is where you will do your finishing as such? I've done plastering before but trying to master the trade now... only for DIY purposes.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Not totally sure I understand the qs. Any shadowing from the scratch marks disappears after jt has had its second coat and sponged. Hope this helps answer the qs.

[@rickoneill9772]

Another good video Al. That MT carbon is definitely working well for you. Do you prefer hardball to bonding? I know we spreads all have our preferences and quirks, just curious which you prefer to work with.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Hardwall all the way. Much nicer product to use IMO.

[@learnsomethinguseful]

Good vid Alex, did you pva the brickwork first?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

We did on this one yes. Just helps a little with the suction.

[@petersomthing9508]

great video again

[@ryokan9120]

please can you provide a link to the Marshalltown trowel? BTW, it is the best video on float and set I've seen by far! Thanks so much!

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

marshalltowntools.co.uk/marshalltown-cement-finishing-trowel-14-x-4-spring-steel-curved-wood-handle-mxs73

[@ryokan9120]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering Thank you!

[@jamesscanlon8129]

👏🏻👏🏻 inspiring

[@werdna21]

Hello mate, another great video, how long did this walk take start to finish?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

The plastering set, was about 1 1/2 hours. Hardwall took about 30min to put on, scratched after and hour or so. Skimmed about 2 hours after being put on the wall.

[@mrv5801]

is it ok to mix thistle hardwall & bonding plaster together - in equal amounts - and then apply to pva'd brickwork???

[@mjl3691]

HI ALEX, NICE JOB, WHAT IS THE LOW AREA AT THE TOP OF THE WALL IN THE MIDDLE ?? ALSO, DONT KNOW WHY IT WOULD NOT BE ACCEPTED TO SPAT THE FINAL COAT OF HARDWALL PRIOR TO SKIMMING ??? I HAVE ALWAYS DONE THAT, I NEVER LIKE TO RELY ON MY PREVIOUS COAT BEING DAMP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF A KEY, SO, I ALSO, LIKE YOU DO, USE A SPAT, BUT I GIVE A (SLIGHT KEY) BY USING A SERRATED, SPAT, OR AS A ALTERNATIVE I MAY SPONGE IT. I DONT LIKE TO HAVE NO MECHANICAL KEY BETWEEN TWO DIFFERENT MATERIALS, eg HARDWALL TO SKIM, etc. CHEERS.

[@mjl3691]

HI ALEX, I STATRED LAUGHING WHEN YOU GOT THE LIGHT ON THE WALL, TO SHOW THE FLATNESS OF THE WALL, I HAVE DONE THAT BEFORE NOW, AND ONE TIME A CUSTOMER CAME INTO THE ROOM, AND WAS SO SURPRISED, THINKING I WAS PLASTERING HER WALL IN THE DARK. THE FIRST TIME I SAW IT DONE, WAS YEARS AGO WHEN A SURVEYOR DID IT, WHO CARRYING OUT A HOME BUYERS REPORT, AND I THOUGHT, YES, THAT'S A GOOD IDEA.

[@jordanmorris4220]

Did you apply PVA mate before your first coat of hardwall to kill the dust ?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

No. Not when skimming it the same day. The hardwall is still got moisture in it.

[@jordanmorris4220]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering sorry mate I ment onto the old brick background

[@nachobanditchannel]

He said at the start that he applied PVA to the wall however it isn't too necessary as hardwall is for high suction backgrounds anyway, but it's good practice to do.

[@peterjones6226]

Another nice job and good tips 👍. Where did you purchase that bench?, I like the pick up handle in the middle.

[@zlock97]

Itd a werner hop up £50 in wickes

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

www.wickes.co.uk/Werner-Professional-Work-Platform/p/185927?scid=scplp185927&sc_intid=185927&gclid=CjwKCAiAhreNBhAYEiwAFGGKPClDutgQgaKFMM4ECk2ox5gAqUQf9aMbpPEeKtlN1Se8XeyYNkv91xoCf2oQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[@simonthompson2107]

It is £100 and not £50 by the way and the Werner hop up goes up in multiple stages and it is 150kg rated.

[@deanedwards31]

Great video:)

[@osmanyalmeidacruz6679]

A good job bat nest tame you don’t need scratch because it is fresh when it is drying because you give it a multi finish

[@deanrutherford6029]

Whats your opinion on speedskims which one would you recommend for someone who mostly skims

[@Tristy1987]

I would buy a refina sponge. Speed skim are ok if the wall/ ceiling is flat! If not it’s a complete waste of time! Lay on & double right up! Clean bucket & then sponge right away.. leave 5-10 min another hard trowel followed by a hard cross trowel.. then one or two superflex to finish. One wet & one dry cross

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Personally I like the refina comfort grip version in plastic. It has a very thick blade and it’s nice to use. Handle is great once you get used to it

[@stuartjames6300]

Good work. The site boys get bent out of shape because they have to plaster a whole room for the same money you've earn't in one wall.... Plus its nice to see a plasterer who i'd trust in my own house ..

[@IainHC1]

MAN!!! What is that light you are using??

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Dewalt 18v Light. Excellent light. Thinking of buying another.

[@IainHC1]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering Defiantly an investment!! :-)

[@allisonhooper2383]

sprayer on window ledge mate

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

I know. Sadly it was the homeowners so it had to be a splash brush

[@truebro77]

where are the trousers from Alex?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Engelbert Strauss

[@Tristy1987]

Nice job… one two coat & sponge is all you need. Goes in clean with Zero blemishes!!

[@darrenquarterman2611]

Out of interest I always find it easier to use biggest straight edge as possible to test if it’s flat

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Great comment. Funny I’m the exact opposite. I prefer a shorter one. Easier to control.

[@darrenquarterman2611]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering I find it can not be flat if I use a shorter edge you get it on flatter than me I don't do much plastering these days thank for your content tried doing a small video of my own for social media it difficult

[@MrProbarrage]

Same here use a 2m h rule then check it with a 2.5m screeding rule

[@IanDavies]

@@MrProbarrage Are the h rules good enough to check levels by themselves Henry? I was thinking about buying a few of those h rules

[@MrProbarrage]

@@IanDavies yes mate they are the same as a feather edge just different handle and mine have rounded edge instead of sharp

[@davidmcmanus1094]

Alex can you pva hardwall?

[@coolhandluke540]

If skimming same day , no need for pva . If skimming next day or later yes . 2 good coats. Let first coat take first👍

[@davidmcmanus1094]

@@coolhandluke540 cheers buddy. Is this basically 'browning' then

[@coolhandluke540]

Basically yes but 100 times better 👍

[@leegorman3329]

is the cement trowel carbon?

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Yes.

[@johnpemberton5089]

What's the going price for a job for a job like that?

[@Tristy1987]

Materials £80-£100 Labour £200-£250

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Difficult because on its own it’s pretty dear. Not too far off what sweet762 said. However we also did an artex ceiling as well. Both together came to £480

[@iantincangleed4702]

Great film Alex cheers

[@lewisriggs6596]

I used hardwall today saids 15 litres to one bag I find that to stiff what would u recommend

[@luap1983]

Add more water😂😂

[@lewisriggs6596]

Well der Yh

[@luap1983]

@@lewisriggs6596 😂 what’s your question then?

[@scottgibson3331]

Didn't catch if the spat was the plastic or metal version, looks like the latter.

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Plastic. We don’t use the metal ones anymore.

[@deanedwards31]

3/4 hard wall 1/4 bonding … bonding 60 if small area …. 1st coat Hardball top coat ,.. or 50/50 finish I coat finish if ya catch it right No water 2 flatten 2 nella gold flex 2 vertical 1 horizontal Cut boxes out Sexy edges :) WONGA 💷

[@sage1d590]

You might wanna mention how your camera makes the straight edge look like a banana 😂

[@tc-ow1ol]

Looks flat but is it level 😉

[@kasimpivano943]

The brickwork looked pretty flat in the first place

[@tommycoughlan4104]

Use SBR

[@stevekovacs4093]

This is for beginners? I've lost count of the number of coats applied. A tile setter would never do this. There are more direct methods.

[@michaelmoroney4594]

Why don’t you scratch the first coat

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Because the second coat is applied straight away while the hardwall still has moisture in it.

[@michaelmoroney4594]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering fair enough I always scratch it everyone has there own methods what works I guess

[@coggsy3036]

I don’t have a sprayer with me,hello there’s one on the window cill ,you must have seen it when you ate your pepperonis 🤦‍♂️

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

It was the homeowners, and it was broken.

[@coggsy3036]

@@AlexMorleyPlastering that old chestnut 🤣🤣

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

I wouldn’t own a sprayer that cheap buddy. Hozelock or nothing for me.

[@amateurvegan2636]

Who the hell did that block work 😂

[@AlexMorleyPlastering]

Not me. That’s all I know. 😂😂

[@ash83]

You’d dab a wall and skim it in 3 hours ? Lol lol lol absolute cowboy

[@popeye4827]

says the clown .....seen that heap's of times .....hahahaha

[@earlbuntyn2986]

Hardwall do stick to pva. That will blow.

[@hupra72]

You saying to use PVA when you use hard wall?

[@simonjules1804]

That's not how you Float And set..you put it on like you are skimming plasterer. You did not go to College

[@popeye4827]

college..hahahaha what the f--- do they know .....you go there skim one sheet of plasterboard on the ceiling .. and youve passed.....load of rubbish. ....watch and listen

[@simonjules1804]

@@popeye4827 Pal, obviously you haven't been here long. I'm talking about 30 years ago. When you had proper apprenticeship of 5 years and 3 years for all trades, as in plastering. Not made up you doughnuts.

[@user-Wojciech]

@@simonjules1804 30 years ago he was 5 yo