Plasterer
The Work
Plasterers mix and apply different kinds of plaster to provide a finish to internal surfaces such as walls, floors and ceilings. They may also be involved with mixing and applying finishes for external walls using sand and cement, pebble-dash or stone-effect materials.
Jobs range from working on new-build housing or commercial developments, small-scale domestic extensions to repair and restoration of existing plasterwork. There are two main types of plastering work:
A third rapidly growing area often associated with plastering is drylining. Essentially, this is a generic term used to describe the construction of internal partitions using plasterboard or wallboard. Wall and floor partitions are constructed by fastening boards together onto a timber or metal frame ready for decorating. See also Ceiling Fixer.
On large projects, plasterers may work in teams on different sections of wall at the same time.
Hours and Conditions
The usual working week is 39 hours, Monday to Friday, although overtime at weekends or evenings is common when deadlines must be met.
Solid plasterers and dryliners normally work indoors, but conditions can be cold and draughty. Fibrous plasterers are usually found in workshops, but sometimes visit sites. Plasterers may have to work at heights off ladders, platforms or scaffolding and protective clothing and headgear is normally required.
Plasterers travel from site to site to complete jobs and although not essential, a driving licence would be useful. Depending on the contract, they may have to work away from home for periods of time.
Skills and Interests
To be a plasterer you should:
Training
Training is normally provided on the job with day or block release at local colleges or training providers leading to NVQ / SVQ qualifications.
There are NVQs / SVQs in Plastering at levels 1-3 available for those working within the industry. Units cover areas such as: producing internal and external plastering finishes; applying and fixing dry lining boards; producing castings; fixing and repair of fibrous components; and contributing to efficient working practices.
A three-year Construction Apprenticeship Scheme (CAS) is open to people in England and Wales, or a four-year apprenticeship in Scotland registered with the Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council. Contact the CITB for details.
New Deal schemes may be available for people who have been unemployed for six months or more. These provide an allowance and training and can lead to a job and further training through the CITB. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus for details.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
Plasterers work for specialist plastering firms, building contractors, local authorities and other public organisations. Many are self-employed and work as sub-contractors, working as 'labour only' with materials supplied by the building contractor. There may be opportunities to work abroad on contracts.
It is possible to progress to technician level and then into construction management.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees minimum wage rates annually.
Salaries can range from £17,000 to £25,000+ a year for qualified plasterers.
Overtime and shift allowances will increase earnings, while self-employed plasterers negotiate their own rates.
Further Information
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CITB - Construction Skills
Tel: 01485 577577
www.citb.org.uk
