Most DIYers should have no issues with a plaster repair.

you’ve got the option to seal cracks, fill holes, and patch broken sections of lath.

Learn how to repair plaster walls in six steps.

Hole in plaster wall

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Preparing the Wall

Before starting this job, prepare the room and the wall.

Start by laying down a drop cloth in the work area.

If necessary, secure the drop cloth with painter’s tape to keep it from shifting.

Materials needed to repair plaster walls

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The goal is to create a relatively smooth, uniform surface.

Use a prybar and keyhole saw to cut out any damaged pieces of lath.

Use this new piece of lath as if it were a stud to patch the damaged lath.

Fixing the lath behind the plaster wall

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

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Vacuum out the holes, then spray them with plaster conditioner.

Mix the patching plaster until it has the consistency of natural peanut butter.

Vacuuming out the wall and lath after drilling holes

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This layer should be recessed by about half the thickness of the original plaster.

This will make it easier for the brown coat to adhere properly.

The second coat should have a flat finish, though some people may prefer a rougher plaster texture.

Applying the scratch coat to the plaster wall

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Let the joint compound dry, then spread a second coat of joint compound.

Repeat this process once more for a total of three finishing coats.

verify to wear safety goggles and breathing protection while you work.

Applying the finish coat

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Wipe down the wall when you are finished sanding to remove excess dust and debris.

Finish priming and painting the wall whichever color suits your tastes.

DIY vs. Professional Plaster Repair

Most DIYers are capable of handling a plaster repair project.

Applying the finish coat on the plaster wall

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

The pros will have the knowledge and experience to quickly and efficiently repair the problem.

The first step in fixing crumbling plaster is to find the issue that is causing the plaster to crumbling.

The pH of this solution will harden the surface of the plaster, preventing it from crumbling.

Sanding down the plaster wall after the repair has been made

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

Yes, it’s possible for you to use drywall and drywall compound to repair large holes in plaster.

Sand, prime, and paint to finish the job.