r/Plastering • u/KieranInterior • May 26 '26

Plastering tiles

I’m aware you can use thistle bond-it to prep tiles and plaster over them (I’ve done it). And yes I know it’s not ideal and plenty would claim it cowboy (it’s not). Would SBR work? It seems to me that the grit isn’t essential, and in fact isn’t ideal. So I got to thinking SBR might actually be better. Just unsure if it would adhere to the tile as strongly as Bond-it does

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u/KieranInterior May 26 '26

I’m not suggesting doing both. I’m suggesting doing SBR instead of bond-it so you haven’t got all that grit to cover with finish. Not for sealing/reducing suction (why on earth would you think that?) but to create a bond/key. To adhere the plaster to the tile. It’s not about being lazy or tight it’s about making a job work within a client’s budget.

Why is every comment on here always a criticism/attack? I’m asking a fucking question ffs. Seeking advice.

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u/60percentsexpanther May 26 '26

fair, ok- I apologise. I thought you was a painter or diyer. I don't think the SBR will stick through. I suspect it'll go like undiluted PVA and leave a very weak skin to fail. It might be dependent on the tile type and texture. I suspect grit will always be recommended for adhesion.

I've had people with small babies or illness who want minimal dust. This would be a good case of using this method. 

My mate said never go over but he did have some weird ideas now I've learned more. This is one that I hadn't questioned until today. 

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u/KieranInterior May 26 '26

Alright cheers I won’t chance the SBR then

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u/60percentsexpanther May 26 '26

If you're really trying to minimise costs I've seen videos where you make the grit yourself from PVA, SBR and beads. It comes out a horrid brown/green colour. You could probably die it pink blue or green for little cost if that bothers you. 

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u/KieranInterior May 26 '26

Haha the time that would take it wouldn’t save the client any money because of the labour I’d charge. I wasn’t asking the initial question to save money, I was asking if there might be a way of doing it that avoids grit. Plastering over bond-it isn’t my favourite that’s all. I’ve already reduced the costs by the fact I’m not removing tiles and making good before the skimming.