Natwerk Designs - Can you patch badly damaged plaster walls?

Can you patch badly damaged plaster walls?

I've just bought a house and whoever owned it previously was horrendous at DIY! The units are all fine and quite modern, but they've stripped some tiles off the walls and left an awful mess. There's not a smooth surface to be seen, lumps have fallen out etc.. but I'd really like a tiled splash back. They've even "painted on" some plaster in one area! I've had a suggestion of a stainless steel splash back which I really dont want (reminds me of working kitchens) and we've even considered putting plastic boarding designed for shower interiors on the wall. Can you not just patch up the surface with fresh plaster? And ideally not have to bring in a proffessional plasterer?

Public Comments

Before doing anything. Make sure all the old loose plaster is off. Repairing plaster is a tough job. And if it is not flat, your tile will upset you greatly. DIY, stores should have some ideas. Might want to check it out. Best Of Luck....
It sounds to me the easiest way (albeit messy), is to remove all the old offending material and replace it with new dry-wall. Seeing whereas we are talking about a back splash, this course of action gives you two advantages: 1] you can install moisture/mold resistant dry-wall, and since you wish to cover it with tile you don't have to finish it perfectly, just get it sealed and smooth (one pass with mud, maybe two). I would prime the entire thing before installing tile (helps the adhesive stick better). Hope this helps . . . .
get all the loose stuff off and buy this stuff- http://www.dap.com/product_details.aspx?BrandID=141&SubcatID=23 sand it when it's dry and tile away ! you may want to use this on deep holes http://www.fiberglass-world.com/drywalljointtape.htm
If you don't want to use a pro, go to the library and check out some books. Follow their advice to the letter if you're a novice because if you don't, you'll just worsen the problem (I think). If you can afford a pro, you should probably use one. Get at least 3 estimates for the job and reject anyone whose bid is much lower or higher than the others. Ask friends for advice. Who has done good work for them?