Water-damaged plaster (obviously) occurs when water is present. A little water isn't a problem; you can clean it right away. However, during stormy weather, if water seeps through the plasterboard, it means that you have some major problems. Restoring water-damaged plaster walls requires experience and specialized techniques. Damaged plaster must be carefully removed and the underlying structure must dry completely before applying new layers of plaster.
This meticulous process guarantees a perfect restoration that maintains the unique character of the plaster walls. Paint and water are insoluble and an easy way to identify if plaster is damaged by water is to look for paint in flakes or air bubbles that explode and come off. Unlike flake plaster, paint flakes off with minimal exposure to water, while plaster often needs to get wet and re-dry before peeling occurs. If the paint begins to flake or bubble, feel the plaster underneath the area; it can often feel moist or wet.
If you experience something similar, call a professional and don't paint over the area or attempt to re-plaster. Before repairing the plaster, make sure that the underlying cause of the water damage has been fully and properly treated. The differences between water damage to drywall and drywall, their unique characteristics, and vulnerabilities can affect necessary restoration processes. Over time, water can absorb from the foundation masonry (or inward from outside stone walls) and damage the plaster that has been applied to it.
Water-damaged plaster can have serious health consequences and is often indicative of potential damage that can damage the overall integrity of the structure. Therefore, it's a great idea to act quickly and repair the plaster as soon as you detect any water damage. While it is more resistant to water damage than plaster, it is not immune to moisture-related problems.
