Our Blog
Practical guides on plastering, damp proofing, and property maintenance from the Shadbolt Plastering team.
How to Spot Rising Damp: The Key Warning Signs
Rising damp is one of the most misdiagnosed property problems in the UK. Here's how to identify the genuine signs and avoid unnecessary treatment costs.
Read morePenetrating Damp vs Rising Damp: What's the Difference?
These two types of damp are often confused — but they have very different causes and require completely different treatments.
Read moreWhat Causes Damp in Walls? A Complete Guide
Damp walls can have a surprisingly wide range of causes. Understanding them is the first step to getting rid of damp for good.
Read moreHow Much Does Plastering Cost in South London? (2025 Guide)
A practical guide to plastering costs in South London and Surrey, covering room sizes, skim vs full plaster, and what to expect from quotes.
Read moreSigns of Woodworm: How to Tell If You Have an Active Infestation
Woodworm is often only discovered when it's already caused damage. Here's how to spot it early — and what to do about it.
Read moreWhat Is Condensation Damp and How Do You Stop It?
Condensation is the most common form of damp in UK homes — and it's almost always misdiagnosed. Here's the truth about it.
Read moreHow to Prevent Mould Growth in Your Home
Mould growth in the home is a health hazard as well as an aesthetic problem. Here's how to prevent it from taking hold.
Read moreWhen to Call a Professional Plasterer (And When to DIY)
Some plastering jobs are genuinely DIY-able. Others will go wrong and cost you more to fix. Here's how to tell the difference.
Read moreDIY Damp Proofing vs Professional Treatment: The Honest Comparison
Should you tackle damp yourself? Here's an honest look at what DIY damp proofing can and can't achieve.
Read moreHow Long Does Plaster Take to Dry? And Why It Matters
Decorating too soon after plastering is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make. Here's everything you need to know about plaster drying times.
Read moreWhat Is a Damp Proof Course and Does Your Home Have One?
Every modern home has a damp-proof course — but many older properties don't, or have one that's failed. Here's what you need to know.
Read moreRendering vs Cladding for External Walls: Which Is Right for You?
Both rendering and cladding can transform the look and weatherproofing of an external wall. Here's how to choose between them.
Read moreDry Rot vs Wet Rot: How to Tell Them Apart
Both types of timber rot are serious — but they require different treatments. Here's how to identify which you're dealing with.
Read moreBasement Conversion: What You Need to Know About Damp Proofing
Converting a cellar or basement adds significant value to a property — but getting the waterproofing right is critical.
Read moreA Brief History of Plastering in British Buildings
Plastering has been practised for thousands of years. Here's a look at how the trade has evolved in British buildings from Victorian times to today.
Read moreDamp Problems in Victorian Houses: A Practical Guide
Victorian properties are beautiful but prone to specific damp issues. Here's what to look for and how to deal with it.
Read morePlastering a New Build vs a Renovation: Key Differences
Plastering a brand new house is very different from working on an older property undergoing renovation. Here's what to expect in each case.
Read moreThe Health Risks of Mould in the Home
Mould isn't just unsightly — it can have serious effects on health, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Read moreHow to Choose a Damp Proofing Company: 7 Things to Check
The damp proofing industry has more than its share of cowboy traders. Here's how to separate the genuine specialists from the rest.
Read moreWhat Is Efflorescence and What Does It Tell You?
White powdery deposits on walls are one of the most common signs of a moisture problem — but what exactly are they?
Read morePositive Input Ventilation Explained: Is It Right for Your Home?
PIV systems are one of the most effective — and least invasive — solutions for condensation and mould problems. Here's how they work.
Read moreSalt-Contaminated Plaster: Why It Must Be Removed
One of the most common mistakes in damp treatment is replastering over salt-contaminated walls. Here's why this always fails.
Read moreDoes Home Insurance Cover Damp? What You Need to Know
Many homeowners assume damp damage will be covered by their buildings insurance — but the reality is more complicated.
Read moreExternal Wall Insulation and Damp: What You Need to Know
EWI can transform the energy efficiency of a solid wall property — but if there's pre-existing damp, it must be treated first.
Read moreHow Long Does Damp Proofing Last? Guarantees Explained
Damp proofing guarantees vary widely between companies and systems. Here's what they actually cover and what to look for.
Read moreSelling a House with Damp: What You Need to Declare
Undisclosed damp problems can derail a property sale or lead to legal claims after completion. Here's what sellers need to know.
Read moreLath and Plaster: Repair or Replace?
Victorian and Edwardian homes often have original lath and plaster that's still in good condition — but knowing when to repair vs replace is important.
Read moreWhat to Expect from a Professional Damp Survey
If you've booked a professional damp survey, here's what will happen — and what the surveyor is looking for.
Read moreNeed Professional Advice?
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