Plastering courses: becoming a plasterer!

Are you thinking of becoming a plasterer by enrolling in plastering courses? Plasterers work with plaster to create durable smooth coatings on surfaces of new constructions. They also apply resilient coats of sand and lime or cement, as well as decorative effects of pebble-dash and stone-effect materials to protect external surfaces from the elements. Most plasterers learn their trade through on-site experience but having done certified plastering courses just adds to your resume and gives you a better chance of being hired.

The demand for new plasterers after finishing plastering courses- Newer and better constructions are always going to be around and that’s where a good plasterer can get a lot of jobs. It is expected that in the nest two years there will be a demand for more than 2, 500 plasterers state-wise to keep up with the construction boom.

Job opportunities after finishing plastering courses- For plasterers there are several job opportunities that they can apply for. For example,
1. Specialist firms which deal with heritage projects
2. Working as a part of a team of building contractors,
3. Sub-contracting to local establishments, local authorities and social organizations
4. Handing a team as Foreman of a plastering firm which specializes in plastering, tiling, grouting etc
5. Freelancing as a contractor who works with building material suppliers for small plastering jobs
6. Site management
7. Supervisors

What do professional Plastering courses teach?
Plastering courses teach the basics of how to handle plaster and work with it to create a resistant and durable exterior and interior finish. You will also be taught safety standards, equipment used in the process of plastering and different materials used to create external stone finishes. You will be expected to work in the following areas as a team or as an individual.
1. Solid plastering – The wall surface is prepared and then different types of wet finishes are applied to surfaces. On external surfaces, different types of protective and decorative coatings are put up like pebbling, stone finishes, bricking, pebble-dashing and layering
2. Fibrous plastering – This involves the process of creating specially designed plasterwork which is commonly used in false ceilings with cornices, ceiling roses and architraves. The plaster is reinforced with fiber to create a much stronger mix and it’s poured into moulds and casts to get a definite shape.
3. Dry lining- Plastering courses teach how to fix plaster board or prepared fiber board onto prepared metal mounts made on walls and ceilings.

How much will be my earnings after finishing an apprenticeship and training with good plastering courses?
According to a government survey carried out in 2008, average earnings of a plasterer are about £14,000 to £17,000 a year. And that is just for beginners.
Trained plasterers are paid about £17,500 and £22,000 depending on expertise and additional experience. Plasterers who have several years of experience can earn over £26,000 or more. Overtime is paid more and shift allowances are extra. Freelancers can negotiate their own rate for their work. But with a degree or a diploma from professional plastering courses, there are chances that you will get paid more.