Plaster, p9
Finish Coat
The finish coat is only about one-eighth inch thick. On the positive side, this requires less material and less effort to apply. On the downside, it can set very quickly.
If a smooth finish is desired, then applying the finish coat is a two-man job minimum; one to apply the plaster and the other to finish it immediately behind him. The plaster must be applied and finished while keeping a "wet edge". If too much time is taken between application and finishing (depending on conditions, this may be as little as a few minutes), the plaster will begin to set and it won't be possible to feather it into the adjoining fresh plater to create a smooth finish. As I was working solo (and my plastering proficiency wanting), my finish is more textured, resembling a skip-trowel finish.
The finish coat just applied, and already shows signs of drying.
It is important not to overwork the plaster with the trowel, as this will separate the NHL from the sand and weaken the application.
Once the plaster has been applied, re-hang the tarps to protect the walls from wind, rain, and sun. Remember, the plaster may be misted with water to slow the rate of drying if weather conditions warrant. Now the exterior of the doors and windows can be trimmed, as seen in the Details section.