How Do You Repair Damaged Coving?

Is It Easy to Replace Coving?

Replacing coving might seem tricky at first, but it can be done with some patience and the right tools. First, you need to carefully remove the old coving. Use a small knife or a special tool to gently pry it away from the wall. Be careful not to damage the wall or ceiling.

Next, you'll need new coving to fit in its place. You can buy this from DIY shops like B&Q or Wickes. Once you have your new coving, measure the space where it will go and cut it to size. Don't forget to make sure it fits snugly.

Finally, you'll need some adhesive to stick the new coving in place. Spread the adhesive on the back of the coving and press it firmly against the wall and ceiling. Hold it for a few minutes until it starts to stick.

Remember, replacing coving can be a bit messy with all the cutting and gluing, so it's important to take your time and be careful.

Should I Hire a Plasterer for Cornice Repair?

Repairing cornices, also known as decorative mouldings, can be a complex task, especially if the damage is extensive or involves intricate detailing. While it might be tempting to tackle the repair yourself, hiring a professional plasterer can often save time, effort, and ensure a high-quality finish.

A plasterer brings specialised skills and tools to the job, which are particularly useful for handling delicate or detailed cornice work. They can seamlessly repair cracks, chips, or missing sections and ensure the repaired area blends perfectly with the rest of the moulding. Additionally, a professional can address underlying issues, such as structural cracks or moisture damage, which might not be immediately obvious to someone without experience.

Another advantage of hiring a plasterer is the ability to manage tricky aspects like matching patterns or working with awkward corners. These tasks require precision and experience to achieve a professional finish. Moreover, a skilled plasterer can advise on the best materials and methods for your specific type of cornice, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

When choosing a plasterer, it’s crucial to find someone reputable and experienced. Check reviews online, ask for recommendations from friends or family, and ensure the plasterer has a portfolio of similar work. Platforms like Noticed are helpful for finding reliable professionals.

While hiring a plasterer may involve additional costs compared to a DIY approach, it’s often a worthwhile investment. A poorly executed repair can lead to further problems down the line, whereas a professional job ensures the cornice is restored to its original beauty and integrity. If you’re unsure about tackling the repair yourself or want peace of mind that the job will be done correctly, hiring a plasterer is likely the best option.

Can You Put New Coving Over Old?

If your old coving is only slightly damaged, you might wonder if you can just put new coving over it instead of removing it entirely. The answer is yes, but it's not always the best idea.

Putting new coving over old can be quicker because you don't have to remove the old one first. However, if the old coving is loose or badly damaged, covering it up won't solve the problem. The new coving might not stick properly or could fall off later.

Before deciding to put new coving over old, check how secure the old coving is. If it's solid and just has minor cracks or chips, you might get away with covering it up. But if it's wobbly or falling apart, it's better to remove it first.

In short, while you can put new coving over old in some cases, starting fresh usually gives you a better result.

What Causes Damage to Coving?

There are several reasons why coving might become damaged, and understanding these causes can help you prevent issues in the future. One common cause is movement in walls, which occurs as buildings settle over time. This natural shifting can create cracks in the walls and cause stress on the coving, leading to visible damage.

Another culprit is moisture, which can result from leaks, damp conditions, or water damage. Plaster coving is particularly vulnerable to weakening or crumbling when exposed to excessive moisture. Temperature changes can also play a role, as fluctuations cause materials to expand and contract, creating stress that may lead to cracking.

Accidental bumps are another common cause of damage. Moving furniture or carrying objects can sometimes lead to unintentional collisions with the coving, causing chips or cracks. Additionally, poor installation may contribute to issues over time. If the original adhesive or fitting wasn’t done properly, the coving might come loose or fail to withstand normal wear and tear.

By recognising these potential causes, you can take proactive measures to protect your coving, such as ensuring proper installation, addressing moisture issues promptly, and being mindful of potential impacts during everyday activities.

How Do I Repair Damaged Coving Myself?

If you’re confident in your DIY skills, repairing damaged coving can be manageable with the right approach. Start by cleaning the area around the damage to ensure it’s free of dust and debris. For small cracks or chips, use filler paste available from DIY shops like Homebase or Screwfix. Apply the filler with a small putty knife, smoothing it out for an even finish. Once the filler dries, gently sand it with fine sandpaper until the surface is smooth. Before painting, apply a primer to the repaired area to ensure the paint adheres properly and blends seamlessly.

For larger repairs, the process involves a bit more effort. First, cut out the damaged section carefully using a sharp knife, ensuring you don’t damage the surrounding coving. Next, measure the gap and cut a new piece of coving to fit. Apply adhesive to the back of the new piece and press it firmly into place against the wall and ceiling. Once the new section is secured, use filler paste to seal any gaps between the old and new pieces.

After the filler has dried, sand the area smooth to ensure a consistent finish. Apply a coat of primer over the entire repaired section, then paint it to match the existing coving. Take your time during each step, as precision is key to achieving a professional result.

Repairing coving yourself can save money and provide a sense of accomplishment. However, it requires patience and attention to detail, especially when dealing with intricate mouldings or extensive damage. By following these steps, you can restore your coving and maintain its decorative charm.