Mason building and leveling a first layer of fresh concrete floor at house stairs and sidewalks, construction site

Plasterers

Plasterers are also known as Cement Masons, whose skills include forming, placing, sculpting, spraying, shaping, coloring, texturing, stamping, smoothing and finishing wet concrete. Becoming a Union Cement Mason is not a job; it’s a promising career that provides for individual and family independence as well as pride of work.

About The Trade

A plasterer in the unionized trades in New York State is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the application of plaster and related materials to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces in construction and building projects. Plasterers are responsible for creating smooth, even, and durable finishes on various surfaces, both interior and exterior. Their work involves a combination of craftsmanship, knowledge of materials, and precision.

Here are some key responsibilities and tasks of a plasterer in the unionized trades in NYS:

  • Surface Preparation: Plasterers prepare surfaces by cleaning, smoothing, and making any necessary repairs before applying plaster. This may include patching holes, cracks, or imperfections.
  • Mixing Materials: Plasterers mix plaster materials to the appropriate consistency, ensuring they meet project specifications. They may work with different types of plaster, including gypsum plaster and lime plaster.
  • Application: Plasterers apply plaster to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces using various techniques, such as troweling, floating, and spraying, to achieve the desired finish.
  • Texture and Finish: Plasterers can create different textures and finishes depending on the project requirements. This may involve texturing, decorative patterns, or smooth, flat finishes.
  • Repair and Restoration: Plasterers are skilled in repairing and restoring existing plaster surfaces, including historical plasterwork in older buildings.
  • Safety: Plasterers prioritize safety by following proper procedures, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensuring that work areas are safe for themselves and others on the job site.
  • Blueprint Reading: They may need to interpret construction plans and blueprints to understand where plastering work is required and to ensure that specifications are met.
  • Quality Control: Plasterers are responsible for ensuring that the plasterwork meets quality standards and project specifications, including thickness, texture, and finish.