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Miro gave me a fair price and had a slot so could do the work next day. He did an excellent job and was polite, clean and tidy. Had a short lunch break and was finished mid afternoon. Would recommend.
Richard
Brilliant, very nice man and did a very good job
Liam
GM Plasterers did a very good job for us. Quickly and up to a high standard.
Magda
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
Bailed me out of a tight spot after another person let me down ... fabulous lads. Great plaster work , very clean , polite workers . Would highly recommend . Thanks lads !
At RLC Plastering , we bring years of experience and a passion for quality to every project. Based in Manchester, we serve both residential and commercial clients, offering a full range of plastering services including loft hatches with stairs ,skimming, artex coverage, media walls, dry lining, rendering,floor screeding timber partitions and polished finishes. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional results that enhance the look and feel of your space, whether it's a small repair or a complete renovation.
Good value. Very quick. Excellent work done. Nice workmen as well. Highly recommended
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.
Dom did a fantastic, thorough job with my old ceiling and wall. He made them solid, long-lasting and looking like new, ensuring everything was done to the highest standards. He even fashioned bevelled edges on the wall to match the style. He left the house spotless, he keeps you updated, he's great to chat with and he gave me a very detailed and fair quote. I'm so glad he came to do my livingroom. Hire him already!
Spreads Plastering Service established since 1979. Reliable, clean & experienced service with reasonable rates in Greater London.
Val was great, completing the job in a very speedy and efficient manner to a high standard and for a competitive price. Would recommend to anyone looking for some work to be done.
Fantastic service from serjan Quick, clean, and high-quality work. Couldn’t be happier with the results!
We are proud to provide high-quality plastering services and have over 15 years of experience. We specialise in dry lining, plasterboard installation & repairs, internal & external rendering, and plaster skimming, ensuring high-quality finishes for both residential and commercial clients. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, we take pride in providing top-notch service in all aspects of plastering. Whether you’re looking to improve your home or upgrade a commercial property, we are committed to providing you with superior plastering and outstanding customer care. Thanks for viewing our profile and we look forward to having the opportunity to provide you with a free quote
Great service - good communication and job well done
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.
Great job. Clean, tidy and pleasant worker. Would highly recommend.
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
We are very grateful to Carl for responding quickly to our post, and for the work completed which was replastering two walls in a small room after fairly disastrous wall paper removal. He was incredibly professional and friendly throughout. He took time to call us and explain the scope of the work and the quote which was detailed and transparent. On the day the work was completed he arrived on time. He completed the work to a high standard and left the room clean and tidy. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
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
Genuine, honest, hardworking professional who knows his stuff. Gave great advice, fantastic job at a very reasonable price. Would highly recommend
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
All types of plastering work undertaken from small patchwork to full house. Very friendly service and extremely clean. Hard working and reliable team.
super guy, came next day and quoted and work carried out over the weekend, super efficient, quiet respectful and very professional and clean. work carried out to a high standard. I have given them more work as a result , you will not be disappointed !
With 20 years of experience in plastering, I offer reliable and high-quality services for both residential and commercial projects.
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.
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.
Hi, C.M PLASTERING has been established for over 25 years. Friendly and reliable service. I cover all aspects of plastering. I.e. re-skim plaster finish over artex,, plaster boarding and dry lining,,, patching plaster,, sand and cement rendering and k-rend., coving. rising damp. (d.c.p). Any building work also taken on. No job to big or small! Free quotations.
Carl did a great job. Turned up when planned and was very friendly. Would definitely use again.
Local, reliable and competitively priced. Work always completed to high standard quality finish. CSCS and NVQ Qualified - Free quotations. Plastering in all of Yorkshire and surrounded Areas.
Top class work from start to finish! Arrived bang on time and completed the job to a high standard and finish and left the work area tidy and clean! Went above and beyond and couldn't recommend enough!
Hi we cover all aspects off plastering and decorating fully qualified with vast experience both domestic and commercial works we pride ourselves on doing a high standard off work and also clean efficient and. Always leaving customer satisfied we are reliable and always go the extra mile when needed thanks gml finishes
Good Job.
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
Perfect from start to finish. Quiet, polite, clean & tidy, a fast worker and great quality plastering. Will definitely be hiring Charles again, when we get to the next stage in our house renovations.
My company is small, usually no more than 3 guys including myself, i take pride in everything i do and will always strive to do so, my quotes are always competitive and i do all types of plastering and plaster boarding, also damp proofing!
Martin is a true professional. Particularly about the finish and small details of his work. Clean , tidy and very affable. Highly recommended and would gladly hire him again.
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