Plaster Cornice: A Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Preparation and Planning
Before you start, you must assess the specific requirements of your room and prepare by collecting the necessary tools and materials. A solid plan will set you up for a smooth installation process.
Assessing the Room and Design Choices
When considering the installation of coving or cornice in a room, the initial step is to evaluate the room's dimensions and the ceiling-to-wall transitions. Measure the room's perimeter accurately with a tape measure to determine the length of coving needed. Take into account any irregular angles that might require special cuts.
It's essential to choose a design that complements the room's character. Traditional cornice designs may suit older homes, while simpler coving could be better for modern spaces. Use a spirit level to ensure that the pencil lines for the bottom and top edges of the coving are straight and level on the walls and ceiling.
Gathering Tools and Materials
Tools Needed:
- Tape Measure: For precise measurements of room perimeter and coving pieces
- Spirit Level: To verify that all lines are horizontal and true
- Pencil: For marking the wall with guidance lines
- Mitre Box and Saw: Essential for cutting coving at the correct angle
- Hammer: For any nails or fixtures
Materials:
- Coving or Cornice: Buy slightly more than the measured room perimeter to allow for wastage
- Adhesive: A strong adhesive specific to coving ensures a secure fix to the walls and ceiling
Having the correct tools and materials at the ready is key. This includes a fine-toothed saw for clean cuts and a straight edge to help draw lines properly. Make sure your level is true for accuracy. Store all materials in a safe, dry place until required.
Installation Process
Installing plaster coving involves preparing the materials, meticulously affixing the coving to the walls and ceiling, and executing the finishing touches for a professional look.
Preparation of Coving and Walls
Before the actual installation, you need to prepare both the coving and the walls to ensure a solid fit. Start by laying out all your tools and materials within easy reach. Use a dust sheet to cover the floor and protect it from any spills or debris. Inspect the plaster coving for any imperfections and gently sand these areas with sandpaper for a smooth finish. For the walls, use a damp cloth to wipe away dust and debris, providing a clean surface for the adhesive. It's important to measure and mark the wall edge with a pencil where the coving will sit. For polystyrene coving, which is lighter, ensure you have appropriate adhesive.
Fixing the Coving to the Ceiling and Walls
The fixation process starts by applying a generous amount of coving adhesive along the edges of the coving that will make contact with the wall and ceiling. Carefully press the coving into place, starting from one end and working your way around the room. Small nails or panel pins can be used to temporarily hold the coving in place while the adhesive dries. For internal corners, precise mitre cuts are required for the mitre joints to meet seamlessly. Ensure each piece of coving is lined up with the previous one to avoid visible gaps.
Achieving Clean and Sharp Finishes
To ensure a professional finish, any excess adhesive should be promptly removed with a damp cloth. Where coving sections meet, you may need to fill small gaps to make the joint look clean. Once the adhesive has set, you can remove any temporary fixings. If necessary, lightly sand along the edges of the coving for a smooth junction with the wall and ceiling. Finish up by applying paint for a fresh and seamless appearance. Remember to clean as you go to keep your work area tidy and your installation looking sharp.
Post-Installation Work
Once the plaster cornice or coving is securely fixed to the walls and ceiling, attention must turn to the finishing details to protect and enhance the appearance of your work.
Sealing and Maintenance
It's critical to ensure a long-lasting finish by sealing gaps and maintaining the cornice. Begin by checking for any gaps where the coving meets the wall or ceiling. A flexible filler should be applied carefully to these areas to achieve a seamless look. After the filler dries, a light sanding might be necessary to attain a smooth surface.
Regular maintenance includes dusting the coving and checking for any signs of cracking or movement. If cracks appear, they should be filled promptly to prevent further damage. It's advisable to keep the cornice clean by gently wiping it with a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals that may damage the plaster.
Painting and Aesthetic Touches
Painting transforms the cornice, giving it a pristine finish that complements the room. Begin with a coat of primer to prepare the surface. Once the primer has dried, apply at least two coats of matt emulsion paint with a paintbrush for a refined, professional appearance.
For those painting a newly installed cornice, opt for a paint that matches the ceiling to unify the appearance, or choose a contrasting colour to create a bold feature, particularly around a chimney breast. Any excess adhesive should be cleaned off before painting to ensure a neat result.
When decorating, patience is key. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before adding the next, ensuring a smoother and more durable finish. Regular touch-ups will keep the cornice looking fresh and well-maintained.