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Skimming plaster is a relatively straightforward job. It’s literally a few millimetres thick, but it can have a huge impact on your home. Finding an expert for your skimming is a must to get a smooth crisp finish. To refresh your walls and ceilings this year and create the ideal surface for decorating, find an expert plasterer today.
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Skimming plaster is the secret weapon of any home renovation connoisseur, giving you a smooth, modern finish to work from. It instantly transforms a drab interior and can be used to cover up dated decorative surfaces and fusty old-fashioned patterns.
It may look easy enough, but skimming is a job for a seasoned plastering pro. The skim layer itself is wafer-thin –just 1–2 mm in depth. That means it must be applied precisely, and with painstaking care. And before you even reach for a trowel, you’ll need to ensure the surface you’re plastering is correctly prepared, while also mixing your skim plaster to perfection.
Once your tradesperson has finished skimming walls and ceilings in your home, it will be ready to decorate however you choose. But remember – painting on fresh plaster may need a dedicated base coat, or the new surface may start to flake and crumble.
What is the price of skimming?
Most plastering jobs are priced per square metre. While a full plastering job will cost around £15 per sqm, skimming alone is usually cheaper (as it’s quicker). Expect to pay between £3–£5 per sqm.
How to skim plaster
- Every experienced tradesperson knows that the essential first step in any job is gathering the right tools and materials. For skimming plaster, it means the correct type of plaster (more on that below). It also means a large bucket, an electric mixer (or a drill with a mixer attachment), a stainless-steel trowel, a plastering hawk, a float, a step ladder and a large paintbrush. Finally, you’ll need a supply of clean water nearby too.
- The next task is measuring the ceiling or wall to calculate how much plaster is needed. Depending on the type of plaster your professional is using (and the manufacturer), this could vary. Be sure to check the instructions on the plaster bag.
- Following those same instructions, your plasterer will slowly fill the required measure of water in a large bucket and gradually add the plaster, stirring the mixture as they go. When all the water and plaster has been added, they’ll start to mix using an electric mixer or drill. The consistency they’re looking for is similar to that of double cream.
- Your pro will moisten the surface of their hawk and apply some plaster to it. They can then take the necessary amount of plaster from the hawk onto the float and apply it to the wall or ceiling. When plastering, they’ll hold the float at a slight angle to the wall and work towards themselves, aiming for a thickness of around 1–2 mm.
- The entire wall or ceiling needs to be covered in one hit, including all edges and extremities. The plaster lasts around 30 minutes before it goes off. At this stage, the plasterer will just be looking to make sure there are no large lumps.
- After around 10–15 minutes, they can do a touch test. If the plaster marks but doesn’t leave a fingerprint, it’s ready to be smoothed over with a clean float. This is when any lines or bumps can be removed.
- It’s then time to apply a second coat of plaster, following the same process that we’ve outlined above. As soon as the second coat is dry, it can be “closed in” – smoothing it over with a metal float. This process should be repeated another three or four times, leaving an interval of around 10–15 minutes between each pass.
- Finally, your plasterer will use a dry paint brush to sweep away any plaster from the edge of your wall or ceiling. The plaster will then need to be left to dry out fully for a few days before decorating.
What type of plaster to use for skimming
Pop down to your local DIY store or builders’ merchant and you’ll probably find a deluge of plaster products. The type of plaster you’ll need will depend on the surface you’re skimming over.
Here’s a brief guide to the types of plaster you can use for skimming:
- Multi-finish plaster. A versatile plaster that can be used to skim over undercoats, existing decorative surfaces and plasterboard.
- Board-finish plaster. Ideal for use on plasterboard, as well as other low grip surfaces.
- Durable or tough-finish plaster. This versatile product is tougher than standard plaster and engineered to withstand knocks or bumps.
- Finishing plaster. Designed to finish undercoat plasters and plasterboard, this product delivers a supremely smooth surface.
- PVA-less plaster. A plaster that will grip without having to prepare surfaces using PVA first.
The qualifications your tradesperson needs
Your plasterer won’t necessarily need any trade body accreditations or formal certifications. But you should expect them to hold some evidence of training – either a City & Guilds, NVQ or diploma qualification. This shows they’ll be versed in best practices and have the necessary knowledge to deliver a top-notch service.
Insurance your tradesperson needs
Check your tradesperson has public liability insurance. Chances are everything will be fine. But just in case anything goes awry when your skim plastering is taking place (think stained carpets or damage to your possessions), public liability insurance will cover you and your tradesperson.
Questions you should ask your tradesperson
- What type of plaster would they recommend using (and why)?
- Can they skim over the particular type of surface you want to plaster?
- Does their quote include labour and materials?
- How would they recommend preparing the new plaster for decoration?
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We take on all aspects of plastering work from artex removal ceiling replacements re-skims rendering we are Manchester based An work within greater Manchester
Great job from Bobby and his team. Very good communication from the first phone call. Honest and fair price. Would use again
At RLC Plastering, we combine years of expertise with a dedication to quality on every job. Based in Manchester, we provide comprehensive plastering services to both residential and commercial clients. Our offerings include loft hatches with stairs, skimming, artex coverage, media walls, dry lining, rendering, floor screeding, timber partitions, and polished finishes. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full renovation, our team is focused on achieving high-quality results that elevate your space.
Great guys, worked quickly and did a perfect job, would recommend
I have good prices and my prime trade is plastering
Very professional and friendly, great job and would hire again!
Welcome to Dom's Plastering, where excellence meets expertise in plastering and drywalling services. Led by Dom, a seasoned professional in the field, our company embodies a commitment to quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. With years of experience under his belt, Dom brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to every project he undertakes. From plastering to drywall installation, Dom's proficiency shines through in the flawless finishes he achieves. His keen eye for detail ensures that each surface is smooth, even, and precisely crafted to perfection. At Dom's Plastering, we take immense pride in our workmanship. Every job is approached with dedication and precision, as we strive to exceed expectations and deliver results that speak for themselves. Whether it's a small residential repair or a large-scale commercial project, our team is dedicated to providing top-tier service that is second to none. When you choose Dom's Plastering, you're choosing quality, reliability, and a commitment to excellence. Experience the difference firsthand and let us transform your space with the finest plastering and drywalling services available.
Such a professional polite young man who has a done fantastic job on my previously artexed ceiling. Would recommend highly.
Time served plasterer with 30 years experience. Dealing mainly with domestic work and specialising in skim coating and cornice work. We also do ceiling renewals and repairs and coving. Artexing and repairs to existing artex. No job too large or small and discounts offered to O.A.P’s.
All types of plastering work undertaken from small patchwork to full house. Very friendly service and extremely clean. Hard working and reliable team.
Spreads Plastering Service established since 1979. Reliable, clean & experienced service with reasonable rates in Greater London.
Very clean on time polite masked up whole area removed all waste will use again
With over 21 years of experience in plastering, I offer reliable and high-quality services for both residential and commercial projects.
Fantastic workmenship and very reliable will be using for further work in the near future.
I offer a diverse range of skills in the plastering industry. I am a very clean and tidy plasterer and take high pride in all my work carried out with over 12+ years of experience
Great communication throughout. Arrived when expected & did a great job. Thanks
I am an experienced plasterer with over 20 years of expertise in the Hampshire and Surrey area. My knowledge spans both traditional and modern plastering techniques, and I pride myself on providing a reliable and friendly service
Quick response, clear interaction - options, plan and quote, good job done, nice guy - would use again
We are a family run business with 10 years experience in plastering and general building services - all our work is professional and guaranteed 100% satisfaction in all our services we are provide. Reliable,clean& reasonable prices to suit all budgets
Extremely happy with the work. Punctual and trustworthy. Will be welcoming them back shortly to undertake larger jobs.
I am an NVQ qualified plasterer with over 20 years of experience specializing in the domestic sector. I am a hardworking individual with a professional approach towards my trade and always ensure that the job is left clean and tidy and the customer is satisfied.
Gary is extremely professional and exceeded expectations in getting a very challenging job done finding solutions to resolve unezpected problems. At all times workstation/area were kept clean and tidy after each day. Gary is very knowledgeable and gave great advise throughout his work on the project. I would highly recommend him. He has a good work ethic and puts his heart into getting the job done to the highest standard. Gary has excellent time management skills. Started promptly each day.
7 years of experience in plastering commercial and residential properties. Imrie plastering services is available to carry out work in West Lothian, Fife and the surrounding areas. Professional, Friendly and Reliable service guaranteed.
Hi! I'm Dan, I can plaster and render anything to highest level of finish, I've been Plastering 20 years and learnt from my dad who's been in the game 50 years, it's in our families blood, my 3 uncles, brother and many friends we've trained too. I've spent most my life working in and around London from loft conversions to some of the UK's most expensive houses. I take great pride in my work and am fast and clean so you'll have me in and out with no fuss. Been in the Midlands a year and have acquired many contacts already and have a some top quality guys who I use on the bigger jobs with myself. So please don't hesitate to get me and my team to complete your job to the standard it should alway be done!
Great job. Clean and tidy working. Will call Dan again if more work is needed
Undercoat and Finish Plastering. Skimming. Lath & Plaster repairs. Plastering & Electrical
Arrived when he said he would, gave a fair price quote for the job, started the job on time. Did a quality job. Was a very pleasant bloke to boot. Would definitely recommend and would use him again if the need arises.
I am a qualified plasterer and decorator with over 20 years experience in the trade dealing with all aspects of plastering and decorating. I work alongside other tradesmen when called in to assist and am a fair and competent tradesman.
We are very happy with our job, Min came on time every day, he doesn't rush anything and does the job properly, he doesn't cut corners.. Very trustworthy, we left him a key when needed and let him crack on. Polite and very positive towards his work, nothing was a problem. We are very happy.
Internal skimming Plaster boarding Dry lining External rendering and dashing EWI Over 30 years experience NVQ time served
Lovely job, Mark. I'm really pleased with what has been done. On time, very polite will definitely be using him again. Thank you
Hi there we are a plastering and building company We are a family run business Our aim is for customer satisfaction on every job Over 30 years exp All trades back up No job to small or big We cover Edinburgh lothians Fife Scottish Borders Artex removal specialist Damp proofing Fireplace specialist
John was 100% professional and completed an excellent job with no fuss.
Based in Oldham, MCE Plastering is a trusted, rated and reliable team of plastering/ rendering specialist. We have been providing customers in the North-West of England and surrounding areas with a high-quality finish for over 5 years. Whether it's a small repair or complete install we work hard to ensure that all of our staff work to high standards using the best techniques and products for the job. Why not get in contact for your quote today!
Having complete a second job for me as well brilliant service would happily recommend
Total plastering offer a high standard of plastering work from start to finish . Covering all aspects from over skim on existing walls, artex, drylining ,browning and rendering . We strive on high standard and tideness.
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