Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Plasterer
What plasterers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a plasterer?
Set up scaffolding. From there, the day usually includes prep surfaces, install lath, and mix plaster. Full time.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a plasterer working full time.
- Set up scaffolding.
- Install lath.
- Mix the scratch coat.
- Apply the scratch coat.
- Apply a brown coat.
- Patch historic plaster.
- Clean tools.
Where plasterers work
Plasterers work indoors and outdoors on homes and commercial buildings.
Hours and schedule
Full time.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Prep surfaces
- Install lath
- Mix plaster
- Apply coats
- Finish textures
- Apply stucco
- Restore plaster
Tools you’ll use every day
- Trowels
- Hawks
- Mixers
- Darbies
- Scaffolding
- Spray rigs
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Craft skill
- Historic restoration niche
- Average growth
- Can be self-employed
What’s hard
- Heavy materials
- Overhead work
- Weather for stucco
- Dust
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like craft work
- I’m patient
- I don’t mind heavy work
- I like old buildings
- I like teamwork
- I want a skilled trade
Not sure? Take the free Plasterer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use scaffolds safely
- Wear eye protection
- Protect skin from lime
- Lift with help