Why do I hear stories that a newly built house cannot be finished because everything will crack?
This is because there is insufficient preparation and incorrect heating practices. Mesh tape must be applied at all crack-prone areas, a method introduced by our company around 1995. Specific heating procedures are required, starting with heating "after" our work to 18 degrees Celsius, gradually increasing every day up to a maximum of 23 degrees Celsius. It is advisable to start heating a few hours at 20 degrees Celsius immediately after our work and then transition to the aforementioned heating process.
Yes, a concrete ceiling with V-grooves can be plastered or finished with textured or smooth plaster.
Yes, it is possible for smooth plastering, depending on the distance between the V-grooves (1.25 or 2.50 meters). Ceiling V-grooves at 1.25 meters (such as the so-called Channel floor slabs) are not ideal for textured plaster, where the risk of cracking is around 5%. Textured plaster cannot be repaired locally, so this finish is not recommended for channel plates. Smooth plaster, followed by painting, can be used because it can be easily repaired. Wide slab elements can be textured, although there is still a risk of approximately 1 to 2% of cracking.
Which plasterboards should I use for an existing or new ceiling that needs to be plastered?
The best option is to use so-called plasterboard sheets (40 x 200 cm). These sheets should be applied in a brickwork pattern and screwed every 30 cm. The framework should also be installed at approximately 30 cm intervals. It is necessary to place all sheets as tightly as possible against each other, despite possible stories about the required distance between the sheets. We apply mesh tape to all joints, reducing the risk of cracking. When using new framework, it is advisable to use seasoned wood, as new wood may shrink. Proper screwing and fastening are important in this regard.
"On your website and in the brochure with the quotation, it is mentioned that switchgear must be removed during the finishing of walls. What does this mean?"
The intention is that you ONLY remove the switchgear and not the inside of the switch or the socket. In the socket, there are usually 1 or 2 screws that you can loosen to remove the cover plate. The regular switchgear can usually be pried up with a screwdriver. Put the different cover plates in a plastic bag and label the room with tape so that you don't have to search for the right assembly later. The removal is intended to ensure a neat end result after installing the plates following our work.
I would like to process my payment to Stucadoorsbedrijf Danny De Ruig through escrow, as this is arranged through the mortgage. Is that possible?
No problem at all. You can receive an invoice either before or after our services, which you can then submit to the bank for payment. Payment through escrow typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. Make sure to submit the invoice to the bank in a timely manner.
Square meters are not mentioned on the quote. Why is that?
We do not mention square meters to prevent discussions afterward. Some companies (intentionally or not) mention the number of square meters but end up charging more afterward. With us, the prices are fixed and inclusive of VAT, travel costs, labor, and materials. If a mistake is made, it is our responsibility. With Stucadoorsbedrijf Danny De Ruig, you always know in advance what to expect.
How is it possible that there is a difference between some of the quotes I have requested? Sometimes the differences are almost incomprehensibly large.
Firstly, there is an increasing number of companies that do not make sufficient preparations, such as applying mesh tape to crack-prone areas, not plastering concrete for decorative plaster, not gluing and applying the finish directly over any surface, etc. Many companies present themselves as professionals but lack professional diplomas, exemptions, or specialized permits. You can check this through the Chamber of Commerce (KvK). Sometimes companies present themselves as medium-sized, but upon inspection, they turn out to be a one-man business that outsources work to others during busy periods. Additionally, during busy times, companies often provide quotes quickly because they have enough work. Finally, many companies are uninsured in case of damage and are not affiliated with industry associations. These factors can lead to differences in prices.
Why is it so difficult to choose a color?
It is indeed difficult to make a final choice based on a small sample. Get advice in showrooms where we buy materials. You can also request a sample in the finish you have in mind, such as Spachtelputz, Baroque plaster, Granol, and all types of spray work, via the banner on Danny De Ruig's homepage. This is not possible for painting. The delivery time between request and receipt is approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
You have finished our finishing. I see all kinds of spots, thin layers, and shortcomings. Is that normal?
Yes, that's correct. Our finishes need to dry first before the correct structure, color, and finish become visible. It's important to ventilate well in the first few hours, preferably with a draft. After that, you can return to 18 to 19 degrees and ventilate calmly. Within about 48 hours, all spots should disappear, and the correct color should be visible. Our work is carried out according to the regulations of our manufacturer and in a traditional manner. Nevertheless, it can happen that not everything colors or dries evenly, especially in existing homes. In that case, contact us, and we will provide solutions free of charge.
It is important to follow a logical sequence for finishing your home?
The ideal sequence for plasterwork on walls and ceilings, followed by painting by us (with a stone floor finish), is as follows: first, have the plasterwork done by Stucadoor & Decorative Plastering Company Danny De Ruig. Afterward, the floor is laid (only for stone floors; other types of flooring come after our work), followed by the installation of the kitchen, and finally, the painting. For finishes like Spachtelputz, Granol, Barokpleister, or any other type of spray work, the floor must also be laid first (only for stone floors) due to possible splashes during joint grouting, etc. Carpets and all types of wooden and other floors should always be installed after our work.