Plaster is still widely available, though rarely used. Just check the painting aisles of your local home improvement center and you'll see it mixed in with spackle and patching compound. The reason for its demise was the invention of joint compound. Unlike plaster, joint compound (or drywall compound) is easy to work with. It is slow to set up and harden, is very easy to sand, mixes easily, can be purchased already-mixed, and is easy to clean up. Joint compound works by simply letting the water evaporate out, leaving the hard, white stuff on the wall.

Plaster, on the other hand, sets up quickly, hardens like cement, is very difficult to work with once it starts to set up, is hard to clean up, and must be mixed up as needed and in quantities that can be worked with quickly. Plaster as it sets up, is actually a chemical reaction between the solid plaster and the water.

For this reason, joint compound is the natural choice for most new homes and patching jobs. However, plaster is by far the superior product. A plaster wall is rock hard, has a solid sound, and feel, is not easy damaged or scratched, and can withstand some abuse. These properties make for some interesting remodeling and repairs.

A simple task such as hanging a hook for a picture frame can cause large chunks of plaster to break free from the wall and come crashing down. Try to drive a drywall screw into plaster can be an exercise in frustration as chunks break out of the wall and the screw getting dulled by the plaster, Drill bits and saw blades dull instantly on contact.

Because of these challenges with plaster, I have compiled a few tips for working with it. Be aware, that these work for me in most situations, but plaster can be different and behave differently in different locations, so work very carefully.

1. When hanging a picture frame from a hook with a nail in it, first tape a large piece of masking tape over the area where you will drive the nail. This will help prevent chip-out. Once the nail is in place, remove

Remember, work slowly and smartly! Never rush an old house project. Take a few minutes to think things out several times. You will still run into surprises, but if you work slowly and deliberately, hopefully, they won't ruin your day!
About the Author

Dean Novosat is an avid do-it-yourselfer and remodeler. He has transformed every home he has lived in. He has several websites including http://www.build-decks-patios.com" target="_blank"> http://www.build-decks-patios.com/, http://www.the-bathroom-designer.com" target="_blank"> http://www.the-bathroom-designer.com, and http://www.the-kitchen-designer.com"