Ornamental plaster has long enriched American interiors, and with proper care, it can endure for centuries. Since water, impact, and vibration are its main threats, here are a few simple tips to help preserve your building’s plaster work.
- Address any leaks immediately. A leaky pipe or roof can have devastating impacts on plaster ornament.
- Maintain reasonable humidity and temperature levels. Extremely humid conditions can also lead to the deterioration of plaster due to its water-soluble nature. Leaving a building unheated over winter can also result in cracking and damage to plaster walls, ceilings, and ornamentation.
- Apply thin coats of paint when repainting plaster ornament. Layers of paint can accumulate and obscure the depth and details of ornament.
- Be cautious when hanging art, curtains, and holiday decorations. Plaster can be easily dented or chipped, and adding additional weight to plaster ornament can cause it to detach.
- Monitor for potential impacts of vibration. Fortunately, in New York, we don’t have to worry too much about earthquakes. However, vibration from neighboring construction projects can damage interior plaster in adjacent buildings. The condition of plaster ornament should be documented in photos before construction projects begin, in case repairs become necessary.
- Select an experienced contractor for repairs. Plaster can be repaired, replicated, and installed new where none currently exists by contractors who specialize in ornamental plaster. If you are located in or near New York City and your historic plaster needs repair, you can reach out to the Landmark’s Conservancy’s Preservation Services department for a list of contractors who specialize in plaster restoration.
You can learn more about historic ornamental plaster from these publications from the National Park Service and Historic Environment Scotland.
Questions? Call the Landmark Conservancy’s Preservation Hotline at 212-995-5260, Ext. 305 or email GwendolynStegall@
Illustration: Ornamental plaster from the landmarked 1832 Merchant House Museum (photo by Dylan Chandler).
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