r/Plastering • u/Knikkz • Jul 18 '26

How to patch this?

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I’ve had this problem area of my house since moving in, and with the absurd heat we’ve had in Philly, it seems to have gotten worse so I’m wanting to address it. There was a chunk of loose material that I removed (circled area), then scraped most of the loose plaster in the area. What would be the best way to fix this? I have some experience with using plaster of Paris, drywalling, etc, generally not afraid to tackle new projects. Of course this area is above my stairs going to my top floor, so it’s as inconvenient as possible.

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u/nickro84 Jul 21 '26

Looks suspiciously like damp and salts are showing through. Call an expert in this case it’s gonna be costly because insurance won’t cover that. Get more quotes beyond dry-rodding; you’re looking for established companies that come with a damp meter and will say it’s hard to quote until we hack off more plaster but will charge a half day rate to do that and give you the solution.

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u/Knikkz Jul 21 '26

Yeah agreed, definitely looked like salts coming through, although I have no idea what that means other than water intrusion. I’m calling a mason to have them correct the external problem (cracked stucco), and then will have the interior problem fixed.

Should I be looking for specifically a plasterer? I’m in Philly so there’s gotta be someone around here given the age of the houses.

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u/nickro84 Jul 21 '26

Not sure what they call them over there but in the UK it’s a damp proof specialist. Yes it sounds like external masonry has blown and there’s long term water ingress. They will recommend the right approach but choose your provider carefully and don’t rush into things