Are you considering replacing your coving? Whether it’s due to wear and tear, damage, or simply a desire to update your home’s interior, replacing coving can significantly enhance the look of any room. This blog will aim to provide you with valuable advice and practical tips to guide you through the entire process, from safely removing the old coving to applying the finishing touches on your new installation. Get ready to change your space with plaster ceiling roses expert insights!

Replace & Removing Coving

When it comes to removing old coving, the first step is to carefully score along the edges with a utility knife to break the seal. Next, gently pry the coving away from the wall using a putty knife or a similar tool, taking care not to damage the wall surface. Once the old coving is removed, it’s essential to prepare the surface for the new installation. This involves cleaning the area to remove any dust or debris and filling in any holes or imperfections with filler. If you’re having a professional handle the installation, ensure that they are aware of the condition of the surface so they can achieve the best results.

Plaster Ceiling Roses provide a wide selection of over 80 unique coving styles, offering choices in size and historical periods. If you’re having trouble deciding or wish to ensure it’s the right fit before a significant purchase, we recommend purchasing a sample pack from our website.

If you choose to undertake this as a DIY project, we have created helpful videos with professional coving installer, Mark Draper. Mark showcases the necessary steps to fit your cornice and helpful tips. 

Measuring the Length

Make sure that you measure your room accurately before replacing or purchasing new coving is crucial to ensure you get the correct length. This step helps avoid any miscalculations that could lead to gaps or mismatched sections. To measure your coving, start by using a tape measure to determine the perimeter of the room, noting down the lengths of each wall. When measuring, be sure to account for any corners or angles, as these will require precise cuts to ensure a snug fit.

For the best results, use tools such as a laser level for straight lines and a miter saw for clean cuts at the right angles. Having the right tools will make the measuring process smoother and help you achieve a professional finish. Check out our product range and instructional videos for more tips on measuring and installing coving effectively!

Ceiling Height

The height of your ceiling can really shape the kind of coving you choose. If you’ve got lower ceilings, going for a more streamlined and subtle coving style can make the room feel more spacious and less cramped. In contrast, if your ceilings are high, you can embrace wider and more decorative coving that adds character and elegance to the space.

 Our broad selection of ornate large plaster coving is perfect for enhancing the grandeur of older Georgian and Victorian residences with their spacious rooms and lofty ceilings. These classic designs typically feature drops ranging from 110mm to 150mm, representing some of our most sought-after options.

Choose from a range of styles such as Swan Neck, Floral, and Art Deco, tailored for Victorian or Georgian homes. If you’re unsure about the best coving for your space, samples are available to purchase on our website, this will aid you confidently find the perfect fit for your room.

To keep things looking balanced, you need to think about the proportions. A handy tip is to aim for coving that’s about 1/10th the height of your ceiling. This way, the coving enhances the overall look without overwhelming the room. Finding the right coving can truly elevate your space, so take the time to explore your options!

We now stock a small version of our popular Swan Neck coving (code SPC070). This is ideal for modern houses with lower ceilings or older properties where space above the windows is limited. It has a drop of 60mm and a projection of 90mm. Our smallest coving drop is Ogee, 50mm (code SPC006). This very small cornice is useful in areas where there is not enough room for a larger cornice but you still wish to cover the join between the ceiling and the walls.

Paint and Finish

When you’re ready to paint your coving after it’s installed, think about whether you want it to blend with the ceiling or stand out against the walls. If you prefer a cohesive look, choose a paint colour that matches the ceiling, but if you want to make a statement, go for a contrasting colour that complements your walls. As for finishes, a matte look gives a soft touch, while satin or gloss finishes can really bring out the details and add some shine. Just remember, it’s best to tackle painting the coving only after it’s securely installed to avoid any mess and ensure clean lines.

We always recommend painting with two coats of matt emulsion, ensuring the first coat is a ‘mist coat’. A ‘mist coat’ is a watered down coat of paint which is applied to fresh, dried, new plaster before you apply a standard coat of paint. Our gypsum coving has a permeable surface (which means it will soak up moisture very quickly). It’s imperative to water down your first coat, (creating a ‘mist coat’), this will help the plaster to soak up the paint and create an excellent bond.

Sand Down

Sanding down the coving after it’s installed is key to getting that flawless look you want. It helps eliminate any rough edges or uneven joints, which can really stand out and ruin the overall appearance. To sand it down without causing any damage, grab some fine-grit sandpaper and go easy on it. Use a gentle, circular motion and don’t press too hard; you want to smooth it out, not create new dents or scratches. Check your progress regularly so you can stop before you overdo it. Taking this extra step will make a big difference in how polished your coving looks!

Seek Professional Advice

When it comes to intricate coving designs or complex installations, seeking professional advice is often the best course of action. Many homeowners underestimate the challenges involved in achieving a flawless finish, leading to costly mistakes.

For instance, improper measurements or installation techniques can result in gaps or misalignments that detract from the overall aesthetic. Additionally, complex designs may require specialised tools and expertise that the average DIYer simply doesn’t possess. It’s crucial to recognise when a project exceeds your skill level and to consult with a professional to avoid potential damage and ensure a polished outcome.

We have a list of recommended installers should you require a ‘Fibre hand’, please contact us and we will put you in touch with an independent professional who works in your area. 

In summary, if you’re considering a detailed coving project, weigh the benefits of hiring a professional against the risks of going it alone. Remember that investing in expert help can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. If you’re unsure about your ability to execute your vision, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance. Take the first step towards achieving your dream space by contacting a qualified installer today.

We deliver across the UK. Our knowledge and experience means we are always ready and willing to help with any questions our customers may have regarding the types of property they are working on.

Call us: +0161 524 0862.

Alternatively you can email us directly: service@shawfieldpark.co.uk