I started repairing some gaping holes in the ceilings and walls, tacking up wire mesh to the lath, and then applying a rough mix of plaster and cement or gypsum and plaster.
Now I'm applying finishing coats of just plaster, feathering it out as far as I can, and wondering if there are better methods. The finishing coats have come away from the walls in places and I've had to re-do a couple of areas more than once.
The instructions on the bag of plaster say to apply it to a dry surface. I found it adheres better if I make the surface damp first. Someone mentioned "bonding agents" in another post. Any suggestions?
I'm almost done, but for the future, what are the best methods for repairing plaster and lath walls and for applying skim coats to walls that are cracked and rough? I still need to apply some skim coats.
Also, I'm almost at the stage where I need to sand the patches smooth. How long do I have to wait for the plaster to dry before sanding? The holes varied in size from a foot and a half across to three inches around and I've built up the walls almost an inch in places that were uneven.
AskMeHelpDesk is a great site. Thank you all for all the advice you give.