Sujan Devkota

• Assessment and Analysis of Existing Structures

Inspect and assess the condition of existing plasterwork to identify areas that require repair, restoration, or replacement.
Conduct non-invasive testing to determine the original materials used in the building’s construction.
Document findings to guide the restoration process while preserving as much of the original plaster as possible.

• Surface Preparation and Cleaning

Carefully clean existing plaster surfaces using approved heritage restoration methods to remove dirt, grime, and old paint without damaging the underlying structure.
Prepare surfaces by removing loose or damaged plaster, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding intact areas.
Protect original features, such as cornices, moldings, or ornamental details, during the preparation process.

• Material Selection and Mixing

Source and use historically appropriate materials, such as lime-based plaster, to match the original construction of the building.
Mix materials according to traditional methods to ensure consistency with the building's original plastering techniques.

• Repair and Restoration of Plasterwork

Repair cracks, holes, or damaged sections of plaster using techniques that match the original finish, ensuring a seamless blend between new and old sections.
Recreate ornamental plaster features (cornices, moldings, ceiling roses) by hand or using molds, staying true to the building's historical style.
Apply scratch coats, brown coats, and finish coats as required, using traditional multi-layer plastering methods.

• Conservation of Original Features

Work meticulously to preserve original architectural elements such as decorative cornices, archways, and ceiling details.
Use non-invasive techniques to stabilize fragile plaster while ensuring that original features remain intact and undisturbed.

• Matching Historical Finishes and Textures

Recreate historical finishes such as lime plaster, Venetian plaster, or other textured finishes that were originally used in the building.
Ensure the texture, color, and composition of the restored plaster match the existing work to maintain the building’s historical integrity.

• Collaborating with Conservation Experts

Work closely with architects, heritage consultants, and conservation specialists to ensure all restoration work adheres to heritage guidelines.
Follow recommendations from experts to maintain the building’s historical significance while restoring its structural integrity.

• Compliance with Heritage Standards and Regulations

Adhere to local heritage conservation laws and guidelines, ensuring that all work is performed in accordance with the Heritage Act 1995 (Victoria).
Obtain necessary permits or approvals before making any alterations to heritage-listed structures.

• Documentation and Reporting

Keep detailed records of the restoration process, including materials used, techniques applied, and any changes made to the original structure.
Provide regular updates to project managers or heritage authorities, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the project.

• Maintenance and Future Preservation

Advise building owners or managers on proper maintenance practices to ensure the longevity of restored plasterwork.
Provide guidance on preventative measures to protect plaster from future damage, such as moisture control or routine cleaning.

• Safety and Environmental Considerations

Follow health and safety protocols, especially when dealing with older buildings that may contain hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead paint.
Use eco-friendly and sustainable materials where possible to minimize environmental impact while maintaining historical accuracy.

• Collaboration with Other Trades

Coordinate with other trades such as carpenters, masons, and painters to ensure that the restoration project proceeds smoothly and that all elements are restored in harmony.

• Surface Preparation

Inspect surfaces (brick, concrete, or other materials) to assess the type of preparation needed.
Clean and sand surfaces to remove dust, dirt, and any previous coatings.
Apply bonding agents or primers to ensure the render adheres properly to the surface.

• Mixing Materials

Measure and mix different types of plaster or render (such as acrylic, cement, lime, or polymer-based renders) in correct proportions.
Ensure the mix has the appropriate consistency for the specific project requirements.

• Applying Render/Plaster

Use hand tools like trowels, floats, and brushes to apply render or plaster to walls, ceilings, or other surfaces.
Apply coats in layers, ensuring even thickness and a smooth, uniform finish.
Work with different rendering techniques (e.g., traditional cement render, acrylic render, texture coating).

• Creating Decorative Finishes

Apply decorative or textured finishes, such as roughcast, pebble dash, or Venetian plaster, depending on client specifications.
Incorporate design elements like cornices, grooves, or patterns into the plaster for aesthetic appeal.

• Repair and Restoration

Identify cracks, holes, or other defects in walls or surfaces and repair them before applying render.
Perform restoration work on old or damaged plaster surfaces, ensuring that new render blends seamlessly with existing materials.

• Insulation and Soundproofing

Apply specialized insulation or soundproofing layers beneath the render to improve energy efficiency or noise reduction in buildings.

• Working with Plans and Specifications

Read and interpret architectural plans, blueprints, and specifications to determine the type and style of render required for the project.
Collaborate with architects, builders, and clients to ensure the final result meets design expectations.

• Safety and Compliance

Adhere to workplace health and safety regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of materials.
Ensure compliance with Australian building codes and standards throughout the rendering process.

• Finishing Touches

After applying render, the renderer smooths and polishes the surface to achieve the desired look.
Perform touch-ups and clean-up of the worksite, leaving it ready for painting or other finishes.

• Collaborating with Other Trades

Work closely with builders, plasterers, and other trades to complete projects efficiently.
Coordinate with contractors to ensure rendering work is synchronized with other construction activities.