Plaster (Lath & Plaster) Repair
Plaster (Lath & Plaster) Repair is a common walls job. Homeowners typically spend about $31 on materials if they tackle it themselves, while hiring a professional usually runs $200–$600 depending on access, parts, and local labor rates. DIY can save up to about $569 versus a full pro job when the work stays straightforward.
Expect roughly 3-5 hours (+ curing) for a careful DIY attempt versus about 2-3 hours for a seasoned pro. Difficulty is rated 4/5 (advanced) with low risk. Typical materials include plaster mix, bonding agent, mesh tape. Common tools: trowel, putty knife, wire brush.
Use the sections below to weigh DIY against hiring: cost ranges, safety alerts, common mistakes, and a personalized analysis for your ZIP code.
Typical Cost
Cost estimates based on cataloged material prices and regional pro rates. Run the analysis for US-wide retailer prices and a regional professional-cost estimate. How we estimate costs.
Is this a DIY job?
AI-assisted educational guidance — not reviewed by a licensed professional. Review policy.
- Typical DIY time3-5 hours (+ curing)
- Typical pro time2-3 hours
- Permit requiredNo
What affects the cost
- Local labor rates for walls pros and whether the visit is emergency vs. scheduled.
- Brand and quality of parts (plaster mix, bonding agent, mesh tape) versus economy alternatives.
- Tool rental or purchase (catalog estimate about $5 for specialized tools).
- Access difficulty (tight spaces, multi-story work, finished surfaces that must be protected or repaired after the job).
When to hire a pro
- If you strike a wire or pipe, or see unexpected water/electricity, stop immediately and call the appropriate trade.
- High-impact DIY mistake — Inadequate Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times, and be patient – it's better to wait a little longer than to risk a failed repair.
- Difficulty is 4/5 or higher. If the first steps feel unclear or you cannot verify a safe shutoff, switch to a professional.
- When hiring a professional to repair your lath and plaster, be sure to describe the damage and location in detail, including any cracks, holes, or water stains. Provide photos or videos to help the contractor understand the scope of the project.
- Ask the contractor to include the cost of materials, labor, and any necessary permits or inspections in their quote. Be wary of low-ball estimates, as they may indicate a lack of experience or a plan to cut corners.
- Check the contractor's credentials and reviews from previous customers to ensure they have experience with lath and plaster repairs. Ask about their process for containing mess and protecting surrounding areas.
- Before the contractor begins work, confirm that they have the necessary licenses and insurance to work in your state and on your type of property.
- Get 3 quotes from licensed professionals
Hazards & safety alerts
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low injury Hidden utilities behind finishes
Cutting or fastening into walls for plaster (lath & plaster) repair can hit electrical cables, plumbing, or HVAC lines hidden in the cavity.
Stop and call a pro if: If you strike a wire or pipe, or see unexpected water/electricity, stop immediately and call the appropriate trade.
Materials you'll need
| Material | Est. Price |
|---|---|
| plaster mix | $15.00 |
| bonding agent | $12.00 |
| mesh tape | $4.00 |
| Total (DIY materials) | $31.00 |
Tools: trowel, putty knife, wire brush
DIY steps
- Turn off electricity to the area, if necessary, and wear a dust mask, safety glasses, and gloves to prevent injury from debris and materials. Cover the floor and furniture with drop cloths to contain the mess. Remove any furniture or fixtures near the damaged area to ensure clear access.
- Use a wire brush to gently scrub away loose or crumbling plaster, taking care not to gouge the surrounding area. If the damage is extensive, use a putty knife to carefully scrape away the old plaster, working from the edges inwards. Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
- Apply a bonding agent to the cleaned area, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times. This will help the new plaster adhere to the old surface. Allow the bonding agent to dry completely before proceeding.
- Mix the plaster according to the manufacturer's instructions, and apply it to the damaged area using a trowel. Spread the plaster smoothly and evenly, feathering it out towards the edges to blend with the surrounding area. Use mesh tape to reinforce the repair, pressing it firmly into the wet plaster.
- Allow the plaster to dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions for curing times. This may take several hours or overnight, depending on the product and environmental conditions.
- Once the plaster is dry, use a putty knife to smooth out any bumps or imperfections. Sand the area lightly to create a smooth finish, and apply a coat of paint or finish to match the surrounding area.
- Clean your tools and equipment thoroughly, and dispose of any leftover materials and debris responsibly.
Common DIY mistakes
-
medium Insufficient Cleaning
Failing to properly clean the damaged area before applying new plaster can lead to a weak bond and premature failure.
-
high Inadequate Drying Time
Rushing the drying process can cause the new plaster to crack or crumble, leading to costly rework.
-
medium Incorrect Plaster Mix
Using the wrong type or ratio of plaster mix can lead to a weak or brittle repair that may not withstand normal wear and tear.
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low Poor Mesh Tape Application
Failing to press the mesh tape firmly into the wet plaster can lead to a weak bond and reduced durability.
-
low Inadequate Sanding
Failing to properly sand the repaired area can lead to a rough or uneven finish that may require additional coats of paint or finish.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to fix a plaster (lath & plaster)?
- DIY materials typically run about $31. Hiring a pro usually costs $200-$600 depending on your area and the scope of the job.
- Can I fix a plaster (lath & plaster) myself?
- It depends on the job. Difficulty is rated 4/5 and risk level is low. Run the free analysis on RepairSmart for a personalized DIY vs. hire recommendation.
- What are common mistakes when you fix a plaster (lath & plaster)?
- Common DIY mistakes include: Insufficient Cleaning; Inadequate Drying Time; Incorrect Plaster Mix. See RepairSmart for the full list and cost breakdown.
- What safety hazards should I watch for when working on plaster (lath & plaster)?
- Key hazards include: Hidden utilities behind finishes. See RepairSmart for stop-conditions and the full safety list.
Not sure? Get a personalized recommendation
RepairSmart compares US-wide retailer prices with regional pro costs and gives you a weighted DIY-vs-hire recommendation in under 60 seconds.
About these estimates
- Numbers on this page come from the RepairSmart catalog (materials baselines and typical pro ranges). They are educational estimates, not contractor quotes.
- Personalized ZIP analysis may add live or cached retailer prices and regional pro signals when third-party data is configured.
- Read how costs and DIY scores are calculated, our safety & review policy, and about RepairSmart.
- If guidance is marked unreviewed, treat steps and tips as educational only—not a professional sign-off for your home.