Plastering

We have had two plasterers round this week to give us quotes. One said that he would do the base layer with simple sand & cement render - he works alone and it is easy to mix (cement mixer), easy to apply, and cheap. However, when I suggested this to the other plasterer, he said no way - too susceptible to cracking.

Neither quote has come through yet, so I don't know how they will compare. However, I would be interested in any comments on the sand & cement issue from my readers.

(Update 22:12 - The first plasterer popped round again today. I asked him about the possibility of cracking with a sand/cement mix, and he says it is not a problem, so long as the mix is not too strong, and the sand is good quality. You can also add lime to make it a bit softer. He reckons it will cut the materials cost to a quarter when compared with "Hardwall" base-coat plaster.)