Alternatives to Shelf Plaster for Walls

Wood Putty

• Wood putty works as a suitable replacement for covering small cracks or holes in damaged walls. The putty has a thicker consistency than plaster and molds to any shape you need. Wood putty comes in small tubs with the material mixed and ready for use. Pull a small piece of putty from the container and roll between your hands until the mixture is pliable. Press the putty against the damaged area and smooth down. Once the putty dries to the surface, sand down the top with fine-grit sandpaper until it feels smooth. Painting the top with a matching paint makes it blend into the surrounding wall.

Fiberglass Reinforced Panels

• Fiberglass reinforced panels are a suitable alternative to plaster for a wall covering. The panels come in different sizes, but you can also cut larger pieces when covering a smaller area. Fiberglass panels work particularly well in areas where you might cover the walls with tile. The panels are resistant to certain types of bacteria and mold, making them an appropriate choice for a bathroom or kitchen.

Paneling

• When covering a larger damaged area, consider using paneling. Paneling comes in multiple styles, including designs that resemble stone or wood. The paneling comes in thin sheets that you unroll and cut to the right size for your wall. Attach the paneling to the wall with adhesive and nails placed along the edges. You typically cover the entire wall with the paneling.

Patching Cement

• Patching cement works best for smaller patch jobs. Though you typically use the cement for concrete surfaces, it also works on other surfaces, including wood and metal. Patching cement is similar to wood putty, except that it has a softer consistency and is less pliable. You apply the mixture to the wall in the same way you would cement, using a trowel to spread it across the wall. You must run a flat trowel or a scraper across the wall, while the patch is still wet. The trowel pulls off the excess cement, leaving behind a flat surface.