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Knowledge base · substrate

Preparing different substrates

From an existing wall to a new plate base.

Practical explanation

This way you pass on useful information about a wall

Make a distinction between substrate and finish

The substrate is for example concrete, masonry or a plate construction. On it can be plaster, paint, wallpaper and old repairs. Describe what you know and send images of any exposed edges. If the structure is unknown, please mention that. A description as a white wall says little about what the new layer should wear.

Report deviations separately

Note where layers are loosened, the wall powderes or moisture was previously visible. Make images of the entire wall and of the deviation with a recognizable size included. Also show material transitions and connections. Different carriers can ask for separate detailing. It makes more sense to discuss such places in advance than to hide them under a uniform finishing layer.

Pre-treatment follows from the chosen system

A adhesion bridge and a product that regulates suction do not have the same function. The product choice follows from the substrate and the new plaster layer. Therefore, keep information on previously used products. In the quotation, please indicate what preparation is needed and ask for advice before applying an extra layer to the wall.

This is what you discuss in advance

  • Describe substrate and existing finishing layers.
  • Photograph connections and abnormal spots.
  • List previously moisture and known products.
Finishes in detail

Take a closer look at the subject.

Illustrative images in preparation, substrate or finish.

Interior inspirationAn unfinished concrete surface in detail.
Interior inspirationAn unfinished sheet wall with treated seams.
Interior inspirationHand tools on a grey wall.

From an existing wall to a new plate base.

Start with an assessment

Concrete, sheet material and existing plaster have different properties. Paint layers, contamination and earlier repair play a role. The visible top layer does not always tell enough about the build-up.

Check the connections

Transitions between materials, seams and connections require extra attention. Whether and what reinforcement, pre-treatment or detailing is needed must fit the chosen system.

Tell me what you know about the wall.

Please indicate which work has been carried out before and where moisture or cracks have occurred. The first assessment can be done with more targeted overview and detail photos.

Discuss your situation

An article gives general explanation. The correct execution follows from the assessment of your space, the chosen materials and the manufacturer's requirements.

Ask your question.

Show the complete structure

Concrete, masonry, plates and existing layers have different properties. Note product names and previous treatments and tone material transitions. The suitable primer and build-up of the plaster layers follow from the substrate and the chosen system. A strong end layer makes a loose substrate not reliable.

  • Describe the existing condition.
  • Make the desired result concrete.
  • Capture preparation and follow-up.
  • Save product data and appointments.

Deepen this topic

More answers on this topic

Is every primer the same?

No. Products can have different functions and applications. Choose them appropriate to the substrate and the next layer and follow the corresponding requirements.

What if I don't know what's on the wall?

Say that when you request and send clear detailed pictures, the performer determines whether further inspection or a test is necessary before the construction can be selected.

From recognition to an appropriate build-up of plaster layers

A mixed wall can consist of old plaster, a closed pipe strip and a new piece of sheet material. The surfaces do not need the same suction or movement. Therefore, let the transition be assessed as a whole. One layer of primer does not automatically make different constructions the same.

A useful checklist

  • Identify the substrate and existing finish before choosing a product.
  • Let loose, contaminated or dampened parts be assessed.
  • Review material transitions, joints and possible movement separately.
  • Follow the combination of substrate preparation and patch prescribed for the system.

Comparing substrates

ComponentWhat should you discuss?
Smooth concreteCheck adhesion, contamination and appropriate adhesion pre-treatment.
Absorbent masonry wallAssess suction; adjust regulatory pre-treatment to the patch product.
Plasterboard or plaster baseboardFix the plate type and follow the corresponding joint and finishing structure.
Existing plaster layerAllow carrying capacity, old paint, damage and possible moisture load to be assessed.
Different materials in one planeTake transitions, possible movement and connection details separately.
Existing tile wallCheck that the tile itself is stuck and that the entire chosen system allows this substrate.

The same primer is not automatically suitable for all rows. Choose the pre-treatment together with the patch and the actual substrate found.

From planning to completion

Discuss your plastering project.

Send your wishes, images and estimated dimensions. We will check which preparation and finishing suits your home.

Request a free quote