Project Background
This Victorian ceiling restoration project in Richmond, West London involved restoring a large ceiling within a property dating back to approximately 1860–1890. With ceiling heights exceeding 12 feet, the original scope was relatively straightforward: prepare the surface, reinforce cracks, and apply a sprayed finish. However, once work began, it quickly became clear that the ceiling had underlying issues not visible at first inspection.
Unexpected Challenge
Distemper After initial preparation and the first application of paint, the surface began to bubble. This indicated the presence of distemper, a traditional water-based coating commonly found in period properties across Richmond and West London. Distemper remains water-soluble, meaning that when modern paints are applied over it, moisture reactivates the layer. This causes it to bleed and prevents proper adhesion, leading to bubbling and eventual paint failure.
Revised Approach
At this stage, the specification had to be completely revised. All previously applied coatings and crack repairs were removed, taking the ceiling back to a stable base—an essential step in any professional Victorian ceiling restoration.
The updated process included:
- Full mechanical sanding using a dust-extraction system
- Removal of all unstable coatings
- Reinstating and reinforcing cracks
- Extensive filling to restore the original plaster surface
Specialist Coating System
To stabilise the surface, we applied Zinsser Gardz, a penetrating sealer designed for porous and compromised substrates. This product binds chalky surfaces, seals residual contaminants, and provides a solid base for further coatings—making it ideal for ceilings affected by distemper in period properties.
We then treated staining in the cornice using Johnstone's StainAway, selected as an effective alternative to shellac-based primers for blocking discolouration and preventing bleed-through
Final Finish
The ceiling was completed using:
- 1 coat of specialist primer/sealer
- 3 coats of high-quality emulsion, spray applied for a consistent, flawless finish
Outcome
Despite the hidden complications, this Victorian ceiling restoration in Richmond was successfully transformed from a failing surface into a fully restored ceiling. The final result delivers a clean, uniform finish while ensuring long-term durability—true to the character of the original Victorian property.
Project Media
I've attached videos showing the work being carried out and the full process we went through on this project:
