Granny flat plastering.

The plastering stage of a granny flat

Plastering comes after the frame, roof, windows, insulation and rough-in plumbing and electrical are done, and before waterproofing, tiling, cabinets and painting. In a granny flat that usually means plasterboard to every wall and ceiling, a cornice or square-set finish where walls meet ceilings, and wet-area board in the bathroom and laundry.

A planning fact worth knowing

Under SEPP (Housing) 2021 Part 2 Division 2, you can build a secondary dwelling up to 60m² on residential lots of 450m² or more. Your council or a private certifier can confirm what applies to your lot.

Guide to granny flat plastering

The process begins with fixing plasterboard sheets to the wall and ceiling frames. We use specific boards for different areas, such as moisture-resistant linings for bathrooms and laundries. This stage creates the internal shell of the dwelling and defines the rooms.

After sheeting, the joints between boards are taped and filled with setting compound. This happens in several stages of application and sanding. Once the compound is dry and sanded smooth, the surfaces are ready for a painter to apply a primer and top coats.

Planning and requirements for secondary dwellings

Plastering fits into the build after the structure is watertight and the electrical and plumbing rough-ins are complete. It is important that all wiring and pipes are securely in place before sheets are fixed to the walls to avoid later disruptions.

Materials vary based on the room function. Wet areas require specific linings to handle humidity. Choosing between cornices or a square set edge finish should be decided early, as this affects how the walls and ceilings are joined and finished.

Common challenges in small dwelling plastering

Small spaces often have more corners and openings relative to the total floor area. This increases the amount of jointing and corner bead work required. Careful planning of sheet layouts helps reduce unnecessary joins and waste.

Access to the site can affect how materials are moved into the granny flat. Ensuring the area is clear of other trades and debris allows for a smoother sanding process and prevents dust from settling on newly finished surfaces.

Preparing for the plastering stage

Homeowners and builders should ensure the frame is straight and the site is clean. Any adjustments to the framing should be made before the plasterboard is installed to avoid patching or replacing sheets later.

It is useful to have a clear schedule for the following trades. Waterproofing and tiling in the bathroom must happen after the moisture-resistant boards are installed but before the final flooring is laid.