Plaster Cornice Repair in London
Cracked plaster, broken decorative details and missing cornice sections can spoil the character of a period room. At Cornice Cleaning Ltd, we repair original plaster cornices using traditional methods, carefully matching the surrounding mouldings.
From a small damaged area to a missing length of cornice, our approach is to preserve as much original plasterwork as possible and recreate what has been lost.
We work on Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian properties across London, including historic and listed buildings.
Send us photographs of your damaged cornice for a free initial estimate, or call 07956 332144 to discuss your repair.
Can damaged plaster cornices be repaired?
In many cases, damaged plaster cornices can be repaired without replacing the entire feature. The right approach depends on the condition of the existing plaster, the extent of the damage and the design of the moulding.
We assess each cornice individually. Where the original plasterwork can be retained, we repair it. Where sections are missing or beyond repair, we can take a mould from a surviving section and recreate the original pattern.
Our plaster cornice repair work includes:
- Repairing cracks and damaged joints.
- Recreating chipped or broken decorative details.
- Replacing missing lengths of plaster cornice.
- Matching existing profiles and ornamental patterns.
- Blending new plaster sections into the original cornice.
Repairing cracks and damaged plaster
A visible crack does not always mean that a cornice needs replacing. Localised damage may be repairable while keeping the surrounding moulding intact.
Before recommending a repair, we inspect the affected area and assess the condition of the plaster. We then explain which parts can be repaired and whether any sections need to be recreated.
If damage follows a leak or ongoing movement, the underlying problem should be addressed before the final plaster repair. This helps reduce the likelihood of the damage returning.
Replacing missing cornice sections
Missing sections are common in period properties, particularly where previous alterations have interrupted the original cornice.
Choosing a modern moulding that looks similar can leave a noticeable difference in the room. Instead, we use surviving sections of your cornice as the reference for the replacement.
By taking a mould of the existing design, we can recreate its profile and decorative detail. New sections are made by hand using traditional plaster materials, then installed and blended into the adjoining plasterwork.
This allows the repair to follow the character of your room, including designs that are no longer available to buy.
Matching decorative plaster details
Ornate cornices often include leaves, flowers and repeating patterns. When individual details are broken or missing, the repair needs to respect the shape and spacing of the original design.
We use intact details as a guide to recreate damaged elements, helping maintain the continuity of the pattern.
Where thick layers of paint obscure the design, careful cleaning may form part of the work. Our steam-only cornice cleaning method helps reveal the original detail without chemical paint strippers.
Our plaster cornice repair process
1. Initial photographs and discussion
Send us clear photographs showing the damaged area, a wider view of the cornice and your postcode. These help us understand the work and provide an initial estimate.
2. Inspection and assessment
We inspect the plasterwork, assess the extent of the damage and discuss the proposed repair. Following inspection, we provide a fixed quote.
3. Mould making and plaster repairs
Where replacement sections are needed, we take moulds from the existing cornice and recreate the missing work in our workshop. We repair retained plasterwork as appropriate to its condition.
4. Installation and finishing
We install the recreated sections and blend the joints into the surrounding cornice. The repaired area is then prepared for decoration.
Experienced care for period plasterwork
Original plaster cornices are part of a building’s character. Repairing them calls for an understanding of traditional materials and close attention to the existing design.
Our experience includes work in period homes and historic buildings, including the Charles Dickens Museum. Whether your cornice is plain or highly decorative, we aim to retain its original appearance wherever possible.
For a broader overview of our work, visit our Cornice Repair page. You can also explore our project galleries to see examples of the mouldings and properties we have worked on.
Frequently asked questions
Will the repaired section match my existing cornice?
We take moulds from surviving sections wherever possible, allowing us to reproduce the existing profile and pattern. Careful installation and finishing help blend the repair into the surrounding plasterwork.
Do I need to replace the whole cornice?
Often, only the damaged or missing sections need attention. We inspect the cornice before recommending how much work is necessary.
How much does plaster cornice repair cost?
The cost depends on the extent of the damage, the complexity of the design, access and whether new sections need to be made. We offer a free initial estimate from photographs, followed by a fixed quote after inspection.
Do you repair cornices in listed buildings?
Yes, we work on listed and historic properties. Any consent requirements should be checked before work begins, particularly where original features will be altered.
Which areas do you cover?
We regularly work across North London and East London and consider projects outside these areas. Send us your postcode so we can confirm whether we can help.
Get a free plaster cornice repair estimate
If your plaster cornice is cracked, damaged or missing sections, contact Cornice Cleaning Ltd to discuss the repair.
Send photographs and your postcode through our contact page, or call 07956 332144 for a free initial estimate.
