BUILDING FINISHES

UNIT CODE: 0732451/15/A

UNIT DURATION: 60 Hours

Relationship to Occupational Standards

This unit addresses the Unit of Competency: perform building finishes
Unit Description
This unit describes the competencies required to perform building finishes. It involves
performing wall plastering and rendering, applying floor finishes, executing ceiling finishes,
applying paint finishes and installing fixtures and fittings
Summary of Learning Outcomes
1. To perform wall plastering and rendering
2. To apply floor finishes
3. To execute ceiling finishes
4. To apply paint finishes
5. To install fixtures and fittings
Learning Outcomes, Content and Suggested Assessment Methods

Learning Outcome Content Suggested Assessment

Methods
1. Perform wall  Finishing materials  Written
plastering and  Finishing tools and equipment assessment
rendering  wall finishes  Practical
 Projects
 Oral
2. Apply floor finishes  Finishing materials  Written
 Finishing tools and equipment assessment
 Floor finishes  Practical
 Projects
 Oral
3. Execute ceiling  Ceiling finishes.  Written
finishes  Application of Ceiling finishes assessment
 Practical
 Projects
 Oral
4. Apply paint  Painting materials  Written
assessment
 finishes  Painting method.  Practical
 Projects
 Preparation of painting  Oral
surface

 Application of paint

 Protection of painted
surfaces

5. Install fixtures and  Types of fixtures and fittings  Written

fittings  Material schedule assessment
 Types of iron mongeries  Practical
 Projects
 Oral

Building finishing refers to the final stage of construction that involves applying various
materials and techniques to complete the appearance, functionality, and durability of a building.
It includes the processes that are done after the structure is built, such as installing interior and
exterior finishes that give the building its aesthetic and practical characteristics. These finishes
also enhance the protection and overall comfort of the building’s occupants.

TYPES OF FINISHES DONE IN A BUILDING

1. Exterior Finishing:
o Facade Treatment: This includes the materials and treatments used on the
exterior walls of the building, such as brick, stone, cladding, siding, or stucco.
o Windows and Doors: Installing and finishing windows and doors with trim,
seals, and frames.
o Roofing: Completing the roofing with shingles, tiles, or metal finishes, along with
gutters and downspouts.
o Landscaping: Adding landscaping features like gardens, driveways, walkways,
and fences to complement the building’s exterior.
2. Interior Finishing:
o Flooring: Laying the final floor surfaces, such as tiles, hardwood, carpet, or vinyl.
o Wall Finishing: This involves plastering, painting, wallpapering, or applying
decorative coatings to the walls.
o Ceilings: Installing ceilings with materials like drywall, suspended ceilings, or
decorative finishes.
o Interior Doors and Trim: Fitting doors, window frames, and baseboards or
crown molding.
3. Painting and Coating:
o Surface Protection: Applying paint, varnish, or other coatings to protect surfaces
(like walls, wood, and metal) and enhance their aesthetic appeal.
 o Decorative Finishes: Using techniques like stenciling, glazing, faux finishes, or
textured painting to create a unique look.
4. Plumbing and Electrical:
o Fixtures and Fittings: Installing sinks, faucets, light fixtures, and other essential
accessories.
o Final Testing: Ensuring that all plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are
functioning correctly.
5. Furnishing and Decorating:
o Adding furniture, fixtures, and other decor items that contribute to the building’s
functionality and aesthetics.
6. Finishing Touches:
o Hardware: Installing handles, locks, and other functional hardware items.
o Cleaning: A final cleaning to remove construction debris and prepare the building
for occupancy.

Purpose of Building Finishing:

 Aesthetic Appeal: To give the building an attractive and polished look.

 Protection and Durability: To protect the structural elements from weather, wear, and
tear, and ensure the building lasts.
 Comfort and Functionality: To create a comfortable, safe, and functional space for the
building’s intended use.

There are a variety of wall finishing materials, each offering different aesthetic, functional, and
durability benefits. Here’s a rundown of common options:

1. Paint

 Type: Latex, Oil-based, or Acrylic

 Benefits: Versatile, easy to apply, wide range of colors, and finishes (matte, satin, gloss).
 Use: Most common wall finish for homes and offices.

2. Wallpaper

 Type: Vinyl, Paper, Non-woven, Fabric

 Benefits: Wide range of textures, patterns, and colors. Can add dimension and interest to
a room.
 Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, or accent walls.

3. Drywall (Gypsum Board)

 Type: Standard, Moisture-resistant, Fire-resistant

  Benefits: Smooth surface, easy to install, cost-effective.
 Use: Common in interior walls and ceilings.

4. Plaster

 Type: Traditional plaster, Venetian plaster

 Benefits: Offers a smooth, durable, and often more luxurious finish. Venetian plaster can
create a marble-like appearance.
 Use: High-end finishes or areas needing sound insulation and durability.

5. Wood Paneling

 Type: Natural wood, MDF, Plywood

 Benefits: Warmth, texture, and natural look. Can be painted or left natural.
 Use: Accent walls, rustic or traditional interiors.

6. Stone or Brick Veneer

 Type: Real stone or manufactured veneer

 Benefits: Adds texture and a natural, rustic aesthetic. Very durable.
 Use: Accent walls, exterior walls, or rustic interiors.

7. Textured Finishes

 Type: Stucco, knockdown, or sand finish

 Benefits: Adds dimension and character, hides imperfections in the wall.
 Use: Often used in exterior walls or in Mediterranean-style interiors.

8. Tile

 Type: Ceramic, Porcelain, Glass, or Mosaic

 Benefits: Easy to clean, waterproof, and comes in various styles.
 Use: Bathrooms, kitchens, or feature walls.

9. Cork

 Type: Natural cork sheets or tiles

 Benefits: Eco-friendly, soundproofing, and insulating properties.
 Use: Bedrooms, offices, or eco-conscious spaces.

10. Fabric Wall Panels

 Type: Upholstered fabric panels

 Benefits: Soft texture, noise reduction, can be custom-designed.
 Use: Bedrooms, theaters, or spaces needing acoustics improvement.
11. Concrete

 Type: Smooth or polished concrete

 Benefits: Modern, industrial aesthetic, highly durable.
 Use: Contemporary designs, accent walls, or industrial spaces.

FINISHING TOOLS FOR WALL FINISH

When working with wall finishing materials, the right tools can make all the difference in
achieving a smooth, professional look. Here’s a list of essential tools for various wall finishing
tasks:

1. Paint Finishing Tools

 Paint Roller: For applying paint over large wall areas quickly and evenly.

 Paintbrush: For edges, corners, and detailed areas.

 Paint Tray: Holds paint for easy access when using rollers.
  Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheets: To protect floors and furniture from splatters.
 Painter’s Tape: For clean, sharp lines around trim, windows, and door frames.

 Extension Pole: To reach higher walls and ceilings without a ladder.

 Caulk Gun: For filling gaps and seams with caulk before painting.
 Sandpaper or Sanding Block: For smoothing surfaces before painting.

2. Drywall Finishing Tools

 Drywall Knife (or Taping Knife): Used for applying joint compound to seams and
smoothing it out.
 Mud Pan: Holds joint compound for easy access when using a drywall knife.
 Sanding Sponge or Pole Sander: To smooth out the dried joint compound.
 Corner Trowel: For finishing corners and angles.
 Drywall Screw Gun: To drive screws into drywall.
 Joint Compound (Mud): Used to fill seams and imperfections in drywall.
 Drywall Tape: For reinforcing joints between sheets of drywall.

3. Wallpapering Tools

 Wallpaper Paste: Applied to the back of wallpaper sheets for adhesion.

 Wallpaper Brush: For smoothing wallpaper onto the wall and removing air bubbles.
 Utility Knife: For trimming excess wallpaper at the edges.
 Seam Roller: Used to press seams together for a smooth finish.
 Plumb Line: To ensure wallpaper is applied straight.

4. Plastering Tools

 Plaster Trowel: For applying and smoothing plaster onto walls.

 Plastering Hawk: A flat platform for holding plaster while working.
 Float: For smoothing plaster after it’s applied to the wall.
 Scrapers: For removing excess plaster or imperfections.
5. Textured Wall Finishing Tools

 Texture Sprayer: For applying textured finishes like popcorn or knockdown.

 Textured Rollers or Stamps: For adding patterns or textures to wet paint or plaster.
 Knockdown Knife: For knocking down textured finishes, giving them a smoother
appearance.

6. Tile Wall Finishing Tools

 Tile Cutter or Tile Saw: For cutting tiles to fit around edges and corners.
 Notched Trowel: For spreading adhesive or mortar evenly on the wall.
 Tile Spacers: To ensure even gaps between tiles.
 Tile Nippers: For small, precise cuts.
 Grout Float: For applying grout between tiles.
 Grout Sponge: To clean excess grout off tiles once it’s set.

7. General Wall Finishing Tools

 Level: To ensure surfaces are straight and aligned, especially when hanging panels or
tiles.
 Measuring Tape: For precise measurements when applying wallpaper, tiles, or wall
panels.
 Ladder: For reaching higher areas safely.
 Utility Knife: A versatile tool for cutting materials like wallpaper, drywall, and trim.
 Clamps: For holding materials in place while drying or curing.

WALL FINISH PREPARATIONS

The process of wall finishing typically involves a few key stages, whether you’re working with
drywall, plaster, or any other surface. Here's a general breakdown of the steps involved in
finishing a wall:

1. Preparation

 Clean the surface: If you’re working with existing walls, clean off any dirt, grease, or
dust to ensure smooth adhesion of materials.
 Repair any damage: Patch up holes, cracks, or imperfections using a filler like joint
compound or plaster. Once patched, let it dry completely.
 Prime the surface: If needed, apply a coat of primer to the walls to help the finish adhere
better.

2. Drywall Finishing (if applicable)

 Tape seams: If you're finishing drywall, apply drywall tape (either paper or fiberglass)
over the joints where the drywall sheets meet. This helps prevent cracking and ensures a
smooth transition between the panels.
  Apply joint compound: Spread a thin layer of joint compound over the tape and seams
using a drywall knife. This is your first coat, so it doesn’t need to be perfect yet.
 Smooth the compound: After the first layer dries, use a wider drywall knife to smooth
out the compound and remove excess. You might need to repeat this process, applying
several layers, each thinner than the last, until the wall is completely smooth.
 Sanding: Once the final coat has dried, sand it down with fine-grit sandpaper to create a
smooth surface for painting or other finishing.

3. Plaster or Other Wall Finishes

 Apply base plaster: If you're using plaster, apply a base coat over the entire wall. This
coat needs to be evenly spread and smoothed with a plastering trowel.
 Smooth the surface: After the base coat sets, apply a finishing coat to further smooth the
wall and create a perfect surface. You may need to add multiple layers, ensuring that each
coat is completely dry before proceeding.
 Final smoothing: Once the final coat of plaster is applied, use a damp sponge or trowel
to smooth out any rough areas or marks left behind.

4. Textured Finishes (optional)

 If you want to add texture to your wall, now is the time to do it.
 Techniques like stucco, knockdown, or popcorn ceilings involve applying texture
materials to the wall. These may require specialized tools like a brush, sponge, or roller,
depending on the look you're going for.

5. Priming and Painting (if desired)

 Prime the wall: Once the wall finish is smooth and dry, apply a coat of primer
(especially if the wall is unfinished or patched).
 Painting: After the primer dries, apply your desired paint color. This may require one or
two coats, depending on the type of paint and the color you’re using.

6. Wallpaper or Decorative Finishes (optional)

 Wallpaper application: If you're applying wallpaper, this is where it would come in.
You’ll need to apply wallpaper paste, smooth the paper onto the wall, and trim the edges
carefully.
 Faux finishes: For textured or decorative painted finishes (like sponge painting, faux
glazing, or stenciling), you’d apply these techniques after the base coat of paint has dried.

7. Finishing Touches

 Touch-ups: After everything is dry, go over the wall and touch up any areas that need
extra smoothing or painting.
 Clean-up: Clean up any dust, debris, or splatters left behind from the finishing process.
Wall plastering is a process where a layer of plaster is applied to walls to create a smooth,
durable, and even surface. It's often used to create a traditional finish in homes, provide
insulation, and improve the overall aesthetic of a space. There are a few different types of
plastering techniques depending on the desired finish and the material you're working with.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to wall plastering:

1. Preparation

 Clean the surface: The wall should be clean, free from dust, dirt, grease, and old paint.
Scrape off any loose material to ensure a smooth, strong base for the plaster.
 Repair any damage: Fill in any holes, cracks, or imperfections with filler or patching
compound. Smooth out the repairs and allow them to dry fully.
 Dampen the wall: For better adhesion, lightly dampen the wall with water. This is
particularly important if you're plastering over a dry or porous surface. However, be
careful not to oversaturate the surface.

2. Prepare the Plaster Mix

 Choose your plaster: Depending on the surface, you can use different types of plaster,
such as gypsum plaster, lime plaster, or cement plaster.
o Gypsum plaster is the most common for interior walls as it dries quickly and
provides a smooth finish.
o Cement plaster is used in areas that require stronger durability, like wet rooms or
external walls.
o Lime plaster is used for historic or breathable finishes, allowing moisture to
escape from the wall.
 Mix the plaster: Prepare the plaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It
should have a creamy, smooth consistency that’s easy to apply but thick enough to stay
on the wall without dripping.

3. Apply the Base Coat (Undercoat)

 Start with the base coat: Using a plastering trowel, apply a thick layer of plaster to the
wall, starting from the bottom and working your way up. The base coat should be about
6-10mm thick, depending on the type of plaster and the condition of the wall.
 Smooth the base coat: As you apply, make sure the plaster is spread evenly. Smooth it
out with a flat trowel to create a level, consistent layer. Don't worry if it’s not perfect yet
—this is the undercoat.
 Let it set: Allow the base coat to set and dry, but don’t let it fully harden. It should still
be somewhat workable for the next layer.

4. Apply the Finishing Coat (Topcoat)

  Smooth out the finish: Once the base coat has dried slightly, apply the finishing coat.
This layer should be thinner, around 2-3mm thick. The goal here is to create a smooth,
even surface.
 Trowel application: Use a clean trowel to apply the finishing plaster, working in small
sections. You can use circular motions to ensure even coverage. Keep the trowel at a
slight angle and avoid pressing too hard.
 Smooth the surface: After applying the top layer, smooth out the finish with a wet
sponge or the edge of the trowel. This is crucial for getting a perfectly smooth, even
finish. You may need to do this in several passes.

5. Polishing and Smoothing

 Polish the plaster: Once the final layer is dry to the touch but not fully set, you can
lightly polish the surface with a damp trowel to smooth out any imperfections. This step
is particularly important if you're aiming for a high-quality, smooth finish.
 Final drying: Let the plaster dry completely. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48
hours, depending on the humidity and plaster type.

6. Finishing Touches

 Sanding (if needed): If you notice any imperfections after the plaster has dried, you can
lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This step is optional and may not be
necessary if the wall is already smooth.
 Clean up: Once the plaster is dry and smooth, clean up any tools and remove any excess
dust from the wall.

7. Painting or Decorating

 After plastering, the wall may need a coat of primer before painting, depending on the
finish you want. Plastered walls often absorb paint quickly, so priming helps create a
uniform finish.
 Once the primer is dry, you can paint the wall with your choice of color and finish.

Tips for Successful Plastering:

 Work quickly: Plaster dries fast, so it’s important to work quickly and efficiently. If
you’re applying multiple layers, always apply the next layer before the previous one has
fully dried.
 Use the right tools: A good trowel and float are essential for applying and smoothing
plaster. Make sure they’re clean before you start.
 Control the consistency: If the plaster is too thick, it won’t spread evenly, and if it's too
thin, it may drip or not stick properly.
 Ventilation: Make sure the room is well-ventilated as plaster dries faster in drier
conditions.
Wall plastering tools

When plastering walls, having the right tools is crucial for achieving a smooth, professional
finish. Here’s a list of essential wall plastering tools and their uses:

1. Plastering Trowel

 Use: The primary tool for applying and smoothing plaster onto the wall. It’s typically
made of stainless steel and comes in various sizes. A larger trowel is good for covering
big areas, while a smaller one is useful for detail work and edges.
 Tip: Choose a trowel with a comfortable handle that fits your grip, as you'll be using
extensively.

2. Plastering Float

 Use: The float is used for smoothing and finishing the plaster after it's applied. It helps to
level out the plaster and create a smooth surface. It’s typically made of wood, rubber, or
plastic.
 Tip: A rubber float can be used to create a smooth finish on fresh plaster and is especially
useful in finishing coats.

3. Hawk

 Use: A hawk is a flat, square platform with a handle, used to hold plaster while you apply
it to the wall with the trowel. It’s essential for keeping the plaster within easy reach while
working.
 Tip: Keep the hawk at a slight angle to make it easier to transfer plaster to the trowel.

4. Corner Trowel

 Use: This trowel has a special shape for plastering corners and edges. It helps you
achieve clean, sharp lines on internal corners without smudging the plaster onto the
adjacent wall.
 Tip: Use it for precise work around door frames, window frames, and wall corners.

5. Plastering Knife

 Use: A plastering knife is often used for cutting plasterboard or for applying thin layers
of plaster. It’s also useful for spreading joint compound.
 Tip: Make sure it’s sharp to get clean cuts and avoid jagged edges when working with
plasterboard.

6. Jointing Knife (Drywall Knife)

  Use: This is used for applying joint compound to drywall seams. It’s typically smaller
and more flexible than a regular trowel.
 Tip: It comes in different sizes (usually 4-12 inches), and a smaller one is better for
detailed work and seams.

7. Sponge or Damp Towel

 Use: A damp sponge or cloth is used to smooth out the plaster during the finishing
process, especially when you're polishing the plaster to achieve a smooth surface.
 Tip: Keep the sponge lightly damp, not wet, to avoid disturbing the plaster surface.

8. Plaster Mixing Bucket

 Use: A large, sturdy bucket to mix plaster. It’s important to have a bucket that can handle
the amount of plaster you’ll need and is easy to clean afterward.
 Tip: Choose a bucket that is wide and deep enough to mix the plaster without splashing.

9. Plaster Mixer (Optional)

 Use: A mixing attachment for a drill that helps blend the plaster thoroughly, saving time
and energy. This tool is ideal if you are mixing large batches of plaster.
 Tip: Use at a low speed to avoid air bubbles and ensure a smooth, lump-free mix.

10. Straight Edge or Level

 Use: A straight edge or level helps ensure the plaster is applied evenly across the wall. It's
particularly useful for checking the smoothness of the surface after application.
 Tip: A long straight edge can be used to smooth out large areas and check for high or low
spots.

11. Plaster Scraper

 Use: A plaster scraper is used to remove excess plaster, smooth out uneven areas, or
clean up old plaster that’s become damaged.
 Tip: Use it for trimming off rough edges and cleaning tools after use.

12. Taping Knife

 Use: Taping knives are used when plastering drywall seams. These knives are wider than
jointing knives and help smooth out large areas of compound or plaster.
 Tip: Use one with a flexible blade for an even finish when applying the joint compound
over seams.

13. Plastering Brush

  Use: This brush is used to wet down the wall before applying plaster (especially for
bonding coats). It can also be used to brush away dust and debris after sanding.
 Tip: Keep it clean to avoid streaks or marks on the surface while plastering.

14. Plastic or Metal Edging Trim

 Use: If you want to achieve clean and sharp edges, this tool helps provide a neat finish,
especially around windows, door frames, and corners.
 Tip: These trims are applied while the plaster is still wet to create a straight edge.

15. Sandpaper or Sanding Block

 Use: After the plaster has dried, a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper can be used to
smooth out any rough patches or unevenness.
 Tip: Start with a medium grit and finish with a fine grit for a smooth finish.

Bonus Tool:

 Drop Cloths or Protective Plastic: It's helpful to protect floors, furniture, and fixtures
from plaster splashes and dust. Drop cloths or plastic sheeting will save you time on
cleanup.