There are several ways to cover an internal brick wall, but one quick method involves fitting plaster sheets.
Covering an internal brick wall can improve a room's aesthetics, insulation, and soundproofing. Here's a breakdown of how to achieve this, focusing on a practical approach:
Options for Covering a Brick Wall
While there are multiple methods, this focuses on using plaster sheets, a relatively straightforward DIY solution:
- Plaster Sheets: This involves attaching plaster sheets directly to the brick wall, providing a smooth, paintable surface.
Preparing the Brick Wall
Before you start, ensure the brick wall is properly prepared:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brick wall to remove any dust, dirt, or loose debris. Use a wire brush and a cleaning solution if necessary.
- Leveling (if needed): If the brick wall is uneven, you might need to apply a leveling compound to create a smoother surface for the plaster sheets.
- Moisture Barrier (optional): Depending on the wall's condition and your climate, consider applying a moisture barrier to prevent moisture from affecting the plaster sheets.
Attaching Plaster Sheets
There are a couple of main methods for attaching the plaster sheets:
- Nailing:
- This involves using nails to secure the plaster sheets to the brick wall.
- Important: Use galvanized nails to prevent rust blooms from appearing on the plaster wall. Galvanized nails resist corrosion, ensuring a clean and professional finish.
- Consider using a nail gun for faster and more consistent results.
- Gluing:
- Construction adhesive can be used to glue the plaster sheets to the brick wall.
- Ensure you use a high-quality adhesive specifically designed for this purpose.
- Apply the adhesive evenly to the back of the plaster sheet and press it firmly against the brick wall.
- You may need to use temporary supports to hold the sheets in place while the adhesive dries.
Finishing Touches
Once the plaster sheets are securely attached, you'll need to finish them:
- Seam Treatment: Apply joint compound to the seams between the plaster sheets to create a seamless surface.
- Sanding: Once the joint compound is dry, sand it smooth.
- Priming: Apply a primer to the entire surface.
- Painting: Paint the wall with your desired color.
Key Considerations
- Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye protection and gloves.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation when working with adhesives and paints.
- Professional Help: If you are not comfortable with DIY projects, consider hiring a professional.
By following these steps, you can effectively cover an internal brick wall and achieve a smooth, finished surface.
