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Plasterer

Do you want to become a Plasterer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

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Plasterers apply coats of plaster to the walls, floors and ceilings of buildings, using trowels and floats.

There are three main types of work:

• solid plastering creates a flat and even surface on walls and ceilings
• fibrous plasteringis used to construct shapes and patterns in ornamental plastering
• drylining uses sheets of wallboard and a framing system to constructwall linings and partitions.

The usual working week is 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday, but plasterers often work overtime at the weekends or in the evenings.

Solid and drylining plasterers mainly work indoors. Fibrous plasterers are usually based in workshops, but may have to visit sites.

Trainee plasterers usually earn about £12,500. A qualified plasterer can earn £21,000.

Plasterers also need:

• good health and fitness
• practical aptitude
• the ability to work quickly but carefully
• a head for heights
• team working skills

Plasterers work for construction companies, from large multinationals to small firms. Many are self-employed and work as sub-contractors.

It helps to have some GCSEs/S grades (A-E/1-5), especially in maths, craft, design and technology and English. Young people can train on a Construction Craft Apprenticeship.

Adults can train in this work, although apprenticeships may have an upper age limit.

Apprentices learn practical skills with an employer, and spend time at college or a training centre to gain qualifications.

There are some prospects for promotion to responsible positions, such as clerk of works, chargehand or foreperson. Plasterers may set up their own business.

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