Waves, hollows and uneven surfaces
In raking light unevenness becomes visible. After paint it is more expensive and more disputed.
Walls closed: check flatness and surface before the painter
Plaster is on the wall or the boards are closed and jointed. This is when you decide whether the painter meets a clean surface — or triggers expensive making good. Raking light exposes waves and edge faults ruthlessly.
The most expensive defects in plaster and jointed surfaces
Cracks, hollow spots and poor junctions
Cracks at ceiling and wall junctions and hollow spots behind plaster often go unnoticed until the surface is finished.
Untidy reveals and missing corner beads
Crooked edges and missing beads jump out for the painter and delay acceptance.
Damp or insufficiently cured surfaces
Painting too early leads to stains, flaking and expensive rework.
What to document and check now on plaster and jointed surfaces
Check walls with raking light
Hold a flashlight flat against the wall. Photograph shadows, waves and dents in overview and close-up.
Check edges and junctions
Check corners, reveals and junctions at windows and doors for straight lines. Photograph untidy finishes closely.
Record open items in writing
Note the room and wall for each unfinished spot. Hand over this list before painting starts.
Check drying and moisture
Look for dark, damp-looking areas in the plaster. Document these areas in time to avoid later stains under the paint.
Secure the surface before painting
Upload your photos. We help you see what is still missing before paint and wallpaper.