I have been working on a large number of kitchen remodels lately and the plasterwork I've had to do has ranged from minor to major. This month and next, I will review the steps I took to get them back in shape. We'll look at three different projects-two with minor repairs-and one with a complete makeover.
The first steps involved cutting back the damaged plaster to where it was solid. Next, I secured it with screws around the perimeter. Now with an open hole, you have the advantage of being able to use construction adhesive of some sort to secure the perimeter in a great way. The joists often are exposed and you can reach in and fill the area between the plaster and wood lath, or between the plasterboard and joists. Wherever I can I like to add adhesive, as it gives that extra stability to the area-especially where the plaster is not as stable and as strong as I'd like it to be around the edges of the area I am going to repair. The combination of both screws and adhesive gives that extra insurance that things will hold together well.