California Residential Inspector Practice Exam

Which type of plaster application requires proper curing before the finishing coat is applied?

1. One-coat

2. Two-coat

3. Three-coat

4. Four-coat

The correct answer is: Three-coat

The correct answer is the three-coat plaster application. This method involves three distinct layers: the scratch coat, the brown coat, and the finish coat. The first two coats need to be properly cured to ensure that the base layers bond correctly and provide a solid foundation for the finishing coat. Curing is essential because it allows the plaster to gain strength and reduces the chances of cracks and other failures in the finished surface. In the context of plastering, proper curing typically involves keeping the applied plaster moist and protected from extreme weather conditions, which is crucial for the durability and integrity of the completed wall. If the finish coat is applied too soon, it may not adhere well to the underlying layers, leading to potential peeling or surface failure. Other methods of plaster application, such as the one-coat and two-coat systems, do not necessarily require the same level of curing because they are designed to be applied in a manner that can accommodate quicker drying times or do not involve multiple drying stages like the three-coat system does. Understanding the specifics of each application type allows for better control over the quality and longevity of the plasterwork in residential construction.