Plastering on plaster

[willcjarvis]

Hi all,

3 weeks ago I had a room plastered by a guy who said he could make it smooth enough for painting using only two layers of backing plaster.

It's not smooth enough; there are trowel marks, some bubbles, lots of small holes in places and small gaps between wall and ceiling. It is a thick layer [about 20mm in places] due to uneven 100yr old brickwork.

I would like a smooth layer to paint on but I don't know how to proceed. Should I scrape / sand it, and fill the holes? Should I throw on another layer of finishing plaster?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[dexter]

No disrespect intended, but did you call "the guy", and what did he say? If you paid for a smooth, paint ready surface, then that is what you should receive.

[willcjarvis]

Yeah told him i wanted it smooth and im not paying till its smooth.

He said he could skim it, just wondering if im willing to let him do it or someone else [or, god forbid, i could have a go!]

Either way, he's only getting paid if he skims it properly himself.

Just for future reference...

before skimming;
Should i make sure the backing is keyed?
Is it important how dry the backing is?
Any particular PVA recommended?