HOW TO BECOME A PLASTERER: Skills, Qualification And Salary

Plastering has continuously placed high in surveys and indices of the country’s most profitable occupations, hence, becoming a qualified plasterer will put you in one of the most profitable occupations in the UK.

Also, structures are created on a regular basis, and plasterers are required to apply finishing coats to the internal and external walls of these buildings, as well as the ceilings.

 You may be employed by a construction company or considering starting your own business; whatever the situation, this comprehensive guide will show you how to become a master plasterer in the UK.

Who Is A Plasterer?

A plasterer is a building specialist who, during the finishing phase of a building, applies a plaster coating to interior and external surfaces. Mixing materials, preparing the work surface, and applying plaster are all responsibilities of a plasterer. To safeguard your work, you usually finish each project with a sealer or wax. Some plasterers focus on a certain type of work, such as decorative plastering.

Also, to give a room a fresh vibe, restore damage, or bring a place back to life, a plasterer is required in most new buildings and many remodelling jobs.

What Does A Plasterer Do?

As a plasterer, you will be responsible for ensuring that buildings have a smooth and clean surface. Drylining or mixing plaster and putting it on walls or ceilings, is what plastering encompasses

The responsibilities of a plasterer may include the following:

• Mixing and applying different kinds of plaster to walls and ceilings
• Fixing internal plasterboard or wallboard partitions is known as dry lining.
• Using pebbledash, sand, or cement render as a protective covering for external walls
• Calculating the amount of plaster/render you’ll need for the project at hand
• Small repairs, house renovations, or working on large commercial projects as part of a team
• Creating beautiful plasterwork with fibrous plastering, molds, and casts.

How To Become a Plasterer in the UK

There are no specific qualifications required In the UK. However, most plasterers receive long-term, on-the-job training. Personnel gain experience by performing tasks under the supervision of experienced workers. For instance, they learn to mix and apply plaster or stucco coats.

Only a few plasterers complete a three- or four-year apprenticeship program. However, apprentices learn the fundamentals of construction, including blueprint reading, arithmetic, building code requirements, safety, and first-aid procedures. 

Furthermore, A plasterer is considered a journey worker after finishing an apprenticeship program and is capable of performing duties on his/her own. Although there are no official educational prerequisites, it is recommended that students take algebra, shop, mechanical drawing, and blueprint reading in high school. Some masonry trade associations provide training and certification to help their members improve their abilities.

How To Become A Qualified Plasterer 

Plasterers are constantly in demand in the United Kingdom, and working for oneself as a plasterer may be a rewarding experience. However, to become a qualified plasterer, you might need to take a variety of paths. A college course, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training can all help you get the certifications you need.

You should survey these options to see which one is best for you. Although some of these possibilities will enumerate qualification criteria, many employers are looking for employees who are zealous, eager to learn, and can follow directions.

In addition, to work on a construction site, you may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.

Some of the options you might want to consider when becoming a qualified plasterer include the following:

#1. College/Training Provider

Plastering classes may be available at your local college or training facility. A Level 1 Award in Construction Skills—Plastering, a Level 2 Diploma in Plastering, or a Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Plastering are all possible options.

 You will require:

• 2 GCSEs at grades ranging from 3 to 1, or alternatively, (level 1 course)
• 2 or more GCSEs at grades ranging from 9 to 3 or alternative qualifications (level 2 course)
• 4–5 GCSEs in grades 9–4, or alternatively, a level 3 course.
  

#2. Traineeship

You may be eligible for a traineeship if you are between the ages of 16 and 24. This is a short course (two weeks to six months) that will help you obtain job experience in your chosen field.

#3. Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship with a construction company is a wonderful way to start in the field.

Anyone over the age of 16 can apply for an apprenticeship. Moreover, you will be completely hired by your employer as an apprentice, and you will be required to work at least 30 hours a week. Your period of training can be divided between on-the-job training and attending a college or training facility.

However, It takes about two years to complete an advanced plastering apprenticeship. You can graduate with a Level 3 qualification if your employer can give you the necessary experience.

#4. Work Experience

In order to work in the construction sector, you must have prior work experience. You may earn this at school or by working weekends and holidays for a construction firm or a relative in the industry. Regardless, the work experience stated on your CV will always impress hiring managers or prospective employers.

#5. Work

An experienced plasterer might be willing to hire you as a labourer to get you started on your professional path. Your employer may then offer you the necessary training to become a qualified plasterer.

#6 Skills

Further skills that may be beneficial to someone looking for a career as a qualified plasterer include:

• Paying close attention to the details and being meticulous
• Having construction and building knowledge
• Being a team-oriented worker
• Have the ability to perform effectively under strain 
• Being computer literate enough to carry out basic work
• Being a skilled business manager

How Long Does It Take To Become A Plasterer in the UK?

The City & Guilds Plastering program is ideal if you want to get qualified and work in household properties. This is a rigorous six-week practical course that will teach you all of the skills you’ll need to work as a plasterer.

Thus, the six weeks of plastering training are divided into smaller chunks to fit your schedule. Alternatively, this course is also available on weekends. And, weekend training consists of 10 weekends spread out over 20 weekends. After that, they’ll do a nine-day block.

How Much Could A Plasterer Earn In the UK?

A plasterer’s salary/income differs as their career progresses. Hence, plasterers who work as employees may expect to experience a significant increase in their pay as their careers grow.

• Firstly, starter plasterers can earn between  £19,000 and £25,000 per year.
• Then, experienced plasterers earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year.
• Plasterers who work for themselves choose their own wage rates.

However, self-employed plasterers, like all other self-employed workers, must investigate and understand the business and market pricing before negotiating their salary.

Conclusion

Finally, whether self-employed or as an employer, being a plasterer in the UK entails completing all of the steps mentioned above. It becomes easier once you are certain that you are ready to take the plunge and are willing to overcome the challenges and hassles of learning and mastering the profession or vocation.

FAQ’s