At some stage in time, you may have to replace your ceiling due to wear and tear or possibly damage from let’s say a leak for example. Dated houses will usually commence showing signs of addled plaster and inevitably need replacing.

To improve the condition of your ceiling there are a few options for you to choose from depending on the condition of the ceiling. If the ceiling is just showing signs of hairline cracks but is still fixed firm to the studs, you could just plaster right over it using a acceptable backing plaster and skim. If it is totally shot though and coming away from the studs, the best option is to remove it and then fit new plasterboard to the studs.

We will focus this article on the assumption that the ceiling you are thinking of replacing is too far gone to remedy any other way and needs to be replaced with new plasterboard.

Time to Begin Stripping The Old Ceiling Back

You will need to ensure you are set up correctly before starting any demolition work to the old ceiling, Dust sheet the area, open windows, wear becoming protective safety wear. You will be amazed of just how much dust can be created from taking down one little old ceiling.

You will want to establish a safe working platform before removing the old plaster. Use a trestle and stout platform boards for this and remove the old plaster with a lump hammer and bolster. Also remove the old timber laths plate nails that were affixed to. You will need to pay attention to any old coving to ensure you don’t damage it.

Fitting The Plasterboard In Place

Measure the room size and purchase the correct amount of plasterboards. Plasterboard comes in different sizes and may be 6×3 sheets or 8×4 sheets. They are normally either 12.5 mm thick or 9.5 mm. Decide which is the best fit for your job and order from your local supplier. Plasterboard can be tricky to get in place on your own so it is a bonus to have a helper with you. You can also hire or but supports to hold the board in place while you fix it. Some people  also make a timber deadman for this purpose.

If the room is all clear and you have your boards on site, you can start fitting them. The boards should be screwed to the studs with dry wall screws at six inch spaces apart and be fitted in a staggered pattern. You will need to cut some of the boards and this should be done with a sharp knife. The ends of each board ought to be in the centre of a joist. Use your props to keep the boards firmly in place.

The next process is to have the ceiling skimmed but this ought to be left to a professional plasterer as there is a great deal of skill required in achieving an exceptional finish. By doing all the prep work though you will have saved yourself a great deal of money.