Plastering, known to many Kuwaitis as liyasa, is a layer of cement mix that covers walls and ceilings after the block work is done. It leaves the surface flat, smooth and ready for finishing. When the plastering is sound, paint, tiles and gypsum board look clean and neat. When it is weak, its defects show up at every stage that follows.
In this article you will learn what plastering is, what types exist, how it is done in the correct order, which mistakes lead to costly repairs later, and how to monitor the work in your house or apartment in Kuwait.
What exactly is plastering?
Plastering is a mix of cement, sand and water, sometimes with additives that improve bonding. It is applied to walls in layers until the surface is straight and free of bumps.
Its role is not only cosmetic. It:
- Hides construction irregularities and levels walls and ceilings.
- Protects blocks and concrete from moisture and dust.
- Prepares a suitable surface for painting, tile fixing and installing fittings.
- Helps set the corners and dimensions that the carpenter and gypsum technician build on.
Why plastering decides the quality of the whole finish
All finishing work is built on top of the plaster. An uneven or leaning wall cannot be fixed by paint, whatever its type. Instead, paint highlights the defects, especially under side lighting. Tiles fixed to a wall that is not straight will show uneven levels and irregular joints.
Doors, kitchens and wardrobes are affected too. If the corners are not square, the carpenter has to use compensating solutions that show in the final result. Specialists therefore consider extra time spent on plastering a way to save much higher costs later.
For more on where plastering fits in the overall order of work, read the guide to apartment finishing steps in the correct order.
Types of plastering and where they are used
| Type | Typical use | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Interior cement plaster | Walls and ceilings inside the home | The most common type; needs a smooth surface before painting |
| External plaster | Building facades and courtyard walls | Needs a stronger mix to withstand heat, dust and humidity |
| Bathroom and kitchen plaster | Damp areas | Needs proper waterproofing before tiling |
| Final skim coat | After plastering and before painting | Cannot replace a level plaster base |
Correct plastering steps
1. Preparation before starting
Concealed plumbing and electrical work must be finished first. Openings must be closed, and switch boxes and distribution boards must be fixed in place. Starting plaster before that means breaking the wall later and repairing it.
2. Setting levels and guides
The technician places reference points and guides with a spirit level to set the layer thickness and the straightness of the wall. This step determines the final flatness.
3. Wetting, applying and finishing
The wall is dampened or given a first coat so the plaster bonds with it. Then the layers are applied, levelled with a straightedge and smoothed.
4. Moisture curing
In Kuwait's hot, dry climate the mix dries quickly, which can cause cracks. The surface needs wetting and protection during the first days, as directed by the supervising technician.
Need help checking your walls or carrying out plastering? The Tashtibatk team is ready to inspect your site and explain what each wall needs before work starts. Contact us on WhatsApp or call +201096413425.
Common plastering mistakes
- Unbalanced mix: too much sand or water weakens the bond and causes flaking and cracks.
- Excess thickness in one layer: leads to cracking or separation from the wall.
- Ignoring corners and edges: slopes appear when installing wardrobes and doors.
- Not allowing enough drying time: painting over a damp surface causes bubbles and stains.
- Rushing into painting: moving on to paint without inspecting the surface means the paint will reveal the defects.
- Neglecting moisture and salinity: salty soil can cause the lower walls to flake, so it needs proper treatment from a specialist.
How to check plastering before painting
You do not need long experience to spot quality. Try these steps:
- Run a long straightedge along the wall and check for gaps between it and the surface.
- Use a phone light at a side angle to reveal bumps and dips.
- Tap the wall lightly. A hollow sound indicates that the layer has separated.
- Check the angles between the walls, the ceiling and the floor.
- Look for hairline cracks or bulges before applying filler.
Once you are satisfied with the plaster, you can choose suitable paint from our guide to the best interior paint types for Kuwaiti homes, then plan your floors by reading the comparison of porcelain and ceramic tiles. If you plan suspended ceilings, see our guide to gypsum board decor for halls and majlis.
Next step
Plastering is a stage that does not appear in the final photos, but it is the foundation that determines the look of the paint, the accuracy of the tiles and your comfort in the home for years. Choose a team that carries it out in the correct order, and inspect it before moving on to any later stage.
The Tashtibatk team offers apartment and home finishing from start to finish, with a site inspection and a clear explanation of each stage. Contact us on WhatsApp, call +201096413425, email info@tashtibtk.com, or visit our contact page to discuss your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between plastering and liyasa?
They are usually two names for the same work: covering walls and ceilings with a cement mix to level them. The difference in naming depends on dialect and region.
Can I paint directly after plastering?
No. The plaster must dry completely and be checked for cracks and bumps. Then filler and primer are applied before painting.
How can I tell that the plastering is poor?
Signs include visible bumps under side lighting, a hollow sound when tapped, cracks and flaking, and corners that are not straight.
Do bathrooms need special plastering?
Damp areas need extra care and proper waterproofing before tiles are fixed. It is best for a specialist to decide the details after inspecting the site.