FAQ

Skim coating is a technique where a thin layer of plaster is applied over existing walls or new blueboard to create a perfectly smooth, paint-ready surface. It's ideal for new construction, renovations where walls have imperfections, or when you want to upgrade from textured drywall to a clean plaster finish. Corbett Plastering specializes in skim coating for homes and commercial spaces throughout Boston and the South Shore.

Drywall (sheetrock) is installed in large panels and finished with joint compound at the seams. Plaster is applied as a wet coat over blueboard or lath, creating a harder, more durable surface with a smoother finish. Plaster is more resistant to dents and cracks, provides better sound insulation, and gives walls a higher-end look and feel. Many homeowners in the Boston area prefer plaster for its superior quality and longevity.

Yes, plaster repair is one of our core services. Many older homes in the Boston area and South Shore have original plaster walls that develop cracks, holes, or water damage over time. We repair and restore damaged plaster to match your existing walls seamlessly, preserving the character and value of your home without the need for a full replaster.

Project timelines depend on the scope of work. A single-room skim coat can often be completed in one to two days. For larger projects, our team is capable of boarding and plastering large custom homes from start to finish within two weeks. We pride ourselves on staying on schedule and will provide a clear timeline during your free estimate so you know exactly what to expect.

Yes, we offer venetian plaster and a variety of decorative plaster finishes. Venetian plaster creates a stunning, polished look that adds elegance and character to any room. It's a popular choice for accent walls, entryways, and high-end residential and commercial interiors. Contact us to discuss the decorative finish options available for your project.

Interior plastering costs vary based on the size of the project, the type of finish, the condition of existing surfaces, and accessibility. We provide free, detailed estimates for every project so you know exactly what to expect. Whether it's a small plaster repair or a full home skim coat, we'll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Call us at (617) 347-9077 to schedule your estimate.

When properly installed and maintained, traditional cement-based stucco can last 50 years or more. It's one of the most durable exterior finishes available, making it an excellent long-term investment for both residential and commercial properties. Corbett Plastering uses quality materials and proven stucco application techniques to ensure your finish stands the test of time, even in New England's demanding climate.

Yes, stucco repair is one of our specialties. Cracks in stucco can develop due to settling, impact damage, moisture intrusion, or temperature changes. We assess the cause of the damage, perform the necessary repairs, and match the existing color and texture so the repair blends in seamlessly. Addressing stucco cracks early prevents water from getting behind the finish and causing more extensive damage.

Traditional stucco is a cement-based system applied in three coats (scratch, brown, and finish) over metal lath. It's extremely hard and durable. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System), sometimes called synthetic stucco, uses foam insulation boards with a thin acrylic finish coat. EIFS offers better energy efficiency and design flexibility, while traditional stucco provides superior impact resistance. We install and repair both systems and can help you determine which is best for your project.

Yes, stucco performs well in New England when properly installed by experienced professionals. The key is correct application with proper water management details, expansion joints, and appropriate curing. Stucco is naturally fire-resistant, provides good insulation, and holds up against wind, rain, and snow. Our team has been applying stucco throughout the Boston area since 2008 and understands the specific challenges of the local climate.

Stucco is available in a wide range of colors and textures, from smooth finishes to rougher, more traditional textures like sand, lace, and dash. Color can be mixed directly into the finish coat (integral color) for long-lasting results that won't peel or fade like paint. We'll help you choose the right combination of color and texture to complement your property's architecture and your personal style.

Stucco is low-maintenance compared to many other exterior finishes. We recommend inspecting your stucco annually for any cracks or damage, especially after harsh winters. Cleaning with a garden hose or gentle pressure wash removes dirt and mildew. Avoid high-pressure washing, which can damage the finish. If you notice any cracks, have them repaired promptly to prevent moisture problems. Contact Corbett Plastering if you need a professional inspection or repair.

We handle commercial build outs for a wide range of businesses, including coffee shops, restaurants, retail stores, office spaces, medical offices, and multi-unit residential buildings. Whether you're opening a new location or renovating an existing space, Corbett Plastering provides complete interior construction services including metal framing, drywall, plastering, and painting throughout the Boston metro area.

Yes, one of the biggest advantages of working with Corbett Plastering is that we handle multiple trades in-house, including metal framing, drywall installation, plastering, stucco, and painting. This means fewer subcontractors, better coordination, and a smoother, more efficient build out process. We also offer project management services to keep everything on track.

Absolutely. We regularly work alongside architects, general contractors, and property managers on commercial projects. We can review construction plans, provide detailed estimates for our scope of work, and coordinate our schedule with other trades to keep the overall project on time. Clear communication is one of our core strengths, and we make the collaboration process seamless.

We have the crew and experience to handle large-scale commercial projects. Since 2008, we've completed numerous large projects including buildings up to 100 units. Whether it's a single retail space or a multi-story commercial development, we scale our team to meet the demands of the project while maintaining our high standards of workmanship and staying on schedule.

The process starts with a free consultation where we review your plans, discuss the scope of work, and understand your timeline and budget. We then provide a detailed estimate covering all framing, drywall, plastering, and finishing work. Once approved, we schedule the project, coordinate with other trades, and keep you updated with clear communication at every stage from demolition through final painting and touch-ups.

Yes, tenant improvements are a significant part of our commercial work. Whether a new tenant is moving into an existing space and needs walls reconfigured, or a business is upgrading their current space, we handle the full scope of interior construction. From new partition walls and ceiling systems to complete finish work, we deliver spaces that are move-in ready on schedule.

Getting started is simple. Call us at (617) 347-9077 or fill out our online contact form to request a free estimate. We'll schedule a time to visit your property, assess the scope of work, and provide a detailed quote. Once you approve the estimate, we'll schedule your project and keep you informed every step of the way.

We recommend reaching out as early as possible, especially for larger projects or during our busiest seasons. For smaller residential jobs like plaster repairs or single-room skim coats, we can often schedule within a few weeks. Larger commercial build outs and whole-home projects may require more lead time. Contact us early so we can reserve a spot in our schedule that works for your timeline.

Customer communication is one of the qualities that sets us apart. Before work begins, we provide a clear timeline and scope of work. During the project, we keep you updated on progress, any issues that arise, and the expected completion date. We believe you should always know exactly what's happening with your project, and we're always available to answer questions.

Plastering and drywall work involves some dust and noise, but we take steps to minimize the impact on your daily routine. We protect flooring and furnishings with drop cloths, contain dust to the work area as much as possible, and clean up at the end of each work day. For interior plastering, walls typically need 24 to 48 hours to dry before they can be painted.

Yes, we clean up after every project. We remove all debris, leftover materials, and dust from the work area so your space is ready for the next step, whether that's painting, moving furniture back in, or opening your business. We treat your property with respect and leave it in the condition you'd expect from a professional team.

We accept checks and most major forms of payment. For larger projects, we typically structure payments in stages tied to project milestones so you're only paying as work is completed. We'll outline the full payment schedule in your estimate so there are no surprises. Contact us to discuss the payment arrangement that works best for your project.