A Solution Born from Experience

Plaster Magic® was developed from a need for efficiency that yielded an unintended, higher-quality outcome than conventional methods of plaster repair. Rory Brennan is an accomplished contractor, with over 45 years of experience. From years of working on historic buildings and homes across the USA, this specialized plaster repair system was developed.

There came a time when Rory realized the existing solutions were not only inefficient but also unfit for historic structures. Metal washers and screws crushed surfaces, needed to be covered and took too much time. Worse yet, this method lacked the flexibility to adapt to how older buildings naturally shift. It became clear: a new system was needed. And it had to be safe, accessible, and long-lasting.

So began the journey of Plaster Magic®.

What Makes Plaster Magic® Different

Plaster Magic® is not just another adhesive. It’s a carefully engineered system designed specifically for the delicate and varied conditions of historic plaster walls.

Non-toxic and safe

From the start, safety was a top priority. The adhesive system had to be non-toxic and water-based. That means no harsh fumes or volatile solvents. Early test versions did include a preservative that was quickly phased out in favor of a much safer material. Although we still recommend gloves and safety glasses, the Plaster Magic® poses no respiratory risks and is safe to use indoors—an essential quality for homes and museums.

Museum-grade quality

Unlike conventional construction adhesives that bulk up with inert additives, Plaster Magic®'s components are all there for a reason. Each element contributes performance benefits, whether it’s strength, flexibility, or bond reliability. That’s what museum-grade means: a system tailored to perform under strict conservation standards.

Conventional adhesives require pristine surfaces—free of oil, dust, and debris. But within the plaster 19th-century wall it’s anything but pristine. That’s why this system includes a conditioner, which penetrates the plaster and lath, consolidates dust, and creates a solid bonding surface. The adhesive then binds to that consolidated surface creating a bond between the consolidated surface and adhesive that adds long term durability and flexibility.

This combination avoids the hard edges found in other adhesives, which can shear or fail when the building shifts.

Adhesive and conditioner: A perfect pair

Plaster Magic®'s adhesive and conditioner are chemically related and designed to work in tandem. When applied together before the conditioner coalesces, they merge and form an incredibly strong bond. This synergy is what makes Plaster Magic® stand out. It's not just about holding plaster in place; it's about restoring a wall in a way that supports long-term stability and resilience.

Built for real-world conditions

Field-tested across countless historic homes and landmarks, the system needed to adapt to all sorts of hidden issues. Dust, cracked lath, inconsistent materials—all challenges that this dual system was designed to solve.

Field-Tested in Some of the Country’s Most Iconic Buildings

Plaster Magic® has earned the trust of preservationists, contractors, and homeowners alike. It has been used in renowned sites like the Belmont Mansion, Old Whalers Church, and the Haskell Opera House.

At the Belmont Mansion, all damage was visible and easily assessed, allowing repairs to be designed in advance. At the Old Whalers Church, repairs were conducted under detailed specifications that Rory, our founder, helped write. After applying the adhesive system to a creaky attic ceiling in March, the difference a year later was palpable. The structure was silent, even moving in the wind. The adhesive had cushioned the lath and plaster so well that the previous groans of movement were gone.

Meanwhile, at the Haskell Opera House, Rory was given full discretion to do the job right—and he did. These projects weren’t just successful; they proved the product could stand up to the needs of complex, high-profile restoration work.

Why It’s the Go-To for DIY and Pros Alike

One of Plaster Magic®’s core philosophies is You Can Do This®. Homeowners shouldn’t need advanced technical skills or costly crews to preserve their walls. This system makes it possible.

No need for full tear-outs. The adhesive system reattaches loose plaster to lath from the inside subsurface, reducing time, mess, and cost. The application is clean, the bond is strong, and the process is safe. That means fewer hours, fewer tools, and far less disruption to your life.

Over time, this also contributes to material conservation, preserving the original architecture instead of replacing it.

Hear It From the Source

"The biggest improvement was the methodology," Rory says. "It wasn’t just about finding the right material (which is very important)—it was figuring out how plaster failure fit into the whole building system."

The system’s success isn’t just found in grand buildings. It’s in the voices of homeowners all across the country. From newlyweds restoring their first home to 80-year-old sisters learning something new, the stories keep pouring in. That’s what makes this work worthwhile and fulfilling for our team.

And yes, the earliest sample adhesives are from 40 years ago. They’re still flexible and soft enough to leave a thumbnail impression. That’s real durability flexibility over the long haul.

Ready to Repair With Confidence?

If you’re ready to restore your plaster the right way, shop our adhesive kits and starter packs today. Not sure where to begin?

• Watch our step-by-step videos
• Visit the Knowledge Center for FAQs, guides, and blog posts
• Explore our project portfolio to see Plaster Magic® in action

Have questions? We’re just a message away.

With Plaster Magic®, you’re not just repairing your walls. You’re restoring a piece of history.