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Applying plaster to a wall will usually cost between $2 and $10 per square foot for both the material and labor. The cost will vary based on the quality of the plaster you’re using and whether or not prep work is required before the work begins. Wall prep can add up to about 10% to your total costs. Plastering exterior walls can be more expensive in many cases because they are taller and require scaffolding and safety equipment.

Repairing plaster walls is almost always worthwhile. Not only will plaster repairs make your walls look new again, but repairs of minor cracks can often reinforce the plaster and help prevent the cracks from spreading and widening. Additionally, hiring a professional to carry out plaster wall repair means they can let you know if the cracking is a result of a severe underlying issue. Catching a problem like foundation instability early could save you thousands, a luxury you wouldn’t have if you just repaired the walls yourself.

Plaster repair costs range from $4 to $10 per square foot for refinishing, while skim coating can be less expensive, usually between $2 and $5 per square foot. The price you pay for plaster repairs will depend on the extent of the damage, the type of plaster you have on your walls, and the accessibility of the damage. Plaster repair on the exterior of your home tends to be more expensive, as there’s a higher chance that ladders or scaffolding will be necessary to carry out the repair.

It is possible to repair plaster walls yourself, but it’s not always a good idea. Hiring a professional means you’ll have expert eyes on the damage looking to see if there is an underlying issue or if the cracks are just from normal expansion and contraction. Additionally, a professional’s plaster repair will very likely last longer than a DIY job, which means you could end up saving money over time by going with a pro from the start.

All plaster walls will crack over time with expansion and contraction from temperature and moisture changes, as well as from normal house settling. In these cases, the cracks will usually be thin and don’t mean there are major structural issues. However, excessive cracking, wide wall cracks, and cracks that span around corners can sometimes mean you have a foundation issue. Identifying severe problems is a key reason why hiring a professional for plaster repair is usually a good idea.