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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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Local plaster skimming specialists near me | Rated People
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?
Over 20 years' experience High standards of workmanship Fully qualified team of builders and joiners Associated with the Apprenticeship scheme of the Construction Industry Training Board Competitive pricing Free, no obligation quotation
Work done to ery high standard by skilled tradesman Delighted with the result
Weardale Construction have been in business for over 16 years. Our main works include extensions, loft conversions, sun rooms and conservatories, We are a team of 8 covering all services without the need to sub contract out any works
So pleased with the work completed by Dave and his team. We hired them to build a single storey extension and couldn’t be happier with the result. Everything went smoothly with all work completed earlier than planned. All of the building work was completed to an exceptionally high standard, all without any issue or stress. Reliable, professional, a pleasure to work with.
hi my name is Andrew Silvera I've been an electrician for 28 years I also used to teach electrics at college to apprentices ,so it's Fair to say there's not much I don't know about electrics or anything with cables/signals. I'm an electrical Project manager as my daytime role trade so safety and quality is my forte .
Andy is a really nice guy, great communication, he popped round for a look and did the job on the spot as it was quick & easy. A little pricey given how quick it was! But very convenient to have it sorted so rapidly and I’d definitely hire Andy again.
I am a plumber with 18 years of experience and my motto is quality above all
Silvio and Vacili were very quick to respond after job post, quote and begin our bathroom refurbishment from an initial shower room to new bathroom refurb which involved replacing shower cubicle with a family bath instead. Friendly and hardworking guys, checking in on our preferences for the installation along the way. Toilet relocation needed tricky plumbing but they were confident and got the job done. Addressed a leak we had promptly as well, always punctual, tidy and getting on with the work at hand!
At Painted Perfect, we're not just painters and decorators; we're creators of beautiful spaces. With over a decade of experience under our belts, we've mastered the art of transforming ordinary rooms into extraordinary living spaces. What sets us apart? It's simple: 1. Expertise: Our team boasts more than 10 years of hands-on experience, ensuring every stroke of the brush and every wallpaper seam is executed with precision and care. 2. Creativity: We don't just follow trends; we set them. Our creative flair shines through in every project, turning your vision into a reality that surpasses your expectations. 3. to Detail: We believe that perfection lies in the details. From meticulous surface preparation to the final finishing touches, we leave no corner untouched. 4. Portfolio: Don't just take our word for it; explore our portfolio to see our past projects. Our work speaks for itself, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship we bring to every job. Explore our portfolio, where we proudly showcase a curated selection of our previous projects. We understand that seeing is believing, which is why we're proud to say that 100% of the pictures and videos in our portfolio are authentic representations of our previous work. You can find more on our website : https://www.paintedperfect.co.uk Choose us for a painting and decorating experience that exceeds your expectations. We turn your spaces into works of art. Contact us today and let's start creating together. Our Services At Painted Perfect, we're your one-stop solution for all your painting and decorating needs. From paint spraying to transforming any surface, we've got you covered. Our range of services includes: Paint & Decorate Any Surface: We have the expertise to enhance the beauty of any surface, whether it's walls, ceilings, or furniture, Interior or Exterior. Repair and Restoration: We'll take care of those unsightly cracks, holes, bumps, or any other damages, leaving your space looking flawless. Plastering: Our skilled team can also handle plastering jobs, ensuring a smooth and pristine surface before we work on our decorating. Wallpaper Hanging or Stripping: Whether you want to add a touch of elegance with wallpaper or refresh your space by removing it, we handle it with precision. Interior Décor: Elevate your interiors with various effects like Sandstone, Relief, Kalahari, Brick, Travertine, and Geometrical Shapings
Polite, friendly, hard working and professional, Angela worked on her own and painted a huge ceiling, correcting any mistakes.. Perfect job, will use again, thank you!!
Job well done and fixed in 1/2 a day
Highly range of painting and decorating skills. Quality for prise. 15years I’m in this business. I love what I do that’s why my standards are very high.Im a very focused person on my duties,knowing what to do.I like to have well organised place to work.Im keeping clean and tidy ,surface after all ,it’s important for me, as a person I am. Experience and variety of the jobs I did in past few years gives me knowledge and assures my of what I am doing.
Did an amazing job removing the desks and touching up/repainting the walls.
With many happy and returning customers over the last 10 years, you can be sure of being well looked after. Our aim is to provide a stress free project, delivered in a manner that I am confident will exceed your expectations. I work with a small team of trusted colleagues, who communicate and work together well. Our customers are accustomed the outstanding quality of projects we complete, by sourcing quality materials with experienced installers we create truly bespoke masterpieces lasting our customers many years. 5 year guarantees are included as standard on all completed work.
Leon was punctual and communicative and completed our landscaping job to a good standard and had some good design ideas. The team finished and cleaned up the entire work area in a tidy way. We have no hesitation in recommending him.
Eko Pro Ltd has an unparalleled customer and quality service. We’re dedicated to your happiness. That means we arrive on time and investigate your needs before diving blindly into the situation. We get it right the first time. Regardless of the size of the job or its complexity, your satisfaction is most important to us. Our mission is to provide our customers a once in a lifetime service. Our team is dedicated to delivering first-class work, and we understand the importance of communication. As a thoroughly family-owned company, you can trust us to give your family the same attention we give to ours. We treat your home as we would our own home, which is why we are committed to providing the highest quality services available. Our knowledgeable staff have over 30 years of combined experience. Book us in for a free consultation.
EKO PRO painted our doors today . there were two polite men who did a fantastic job, they even sourced the paint for us ! Would recommend their work to anyone. They tidied up too, 5 gold stars. They were clean and tidy and we could not have asked for a better service and all done with a smile. We will definitely be using them again they are also builders and plumbers . Highly recommended
I’ve been plastering for 35 years with vast experience in all aspects of traditional plastering
Sattari UK Ltd
Plaster Skimming
DURA POWER LTD is a company that specialises in refurbishment and new build projects, particularly in the education, healthcare and commercial sectors. With extensive experience in these fields, we offer a value-added approach and understanding of our clients’ requirements. We maintain strong relationships with a wide variety of tried and tested subcontractors. This strong supply chain enables us to provide flexibility, manage change and maintain quality. We are capable of handling tendered or negotiated projects . Our financial strengths come from a commitment to reinvest, ensuring a sound financial base is maintained without external borrowings. We have a team of directly employed professional staff who deliver a cost-effective, timely, and high-quality construction solution. Our core team of tradesmen delivers consistent quality and has the ability to be flexible and reactive to requirements. Our long-lasting client partnerships are a testimony to the exemplary service we provide. This level of customer satisfaction, repeat and referred business forms the foundation of DURA POWER LTD success. Our approach is sensitive, innovative and bespoke, driven by challenging and constrictive working environments. We are committed to achieving the optimum solutions across our service delivery, considering logistical aspects to ensure customer satisfaction.
About Andrey's Property Services. Thank you for looking at our profile page here at Andrey's Property Services. We are a team of highly skilled multi-talented tradespeople and between us we can do pretty much all work required in your home to a very good standard. This can be confirmed by looking at our excellent reviews and pictures of our previous work. Some of the things that make us stand out from the rest - NO UPFRONT DEPOSITS We only ever ask for payment once the work is complete and you have had a chance to make sure you are totally happy with everything. WE DO EVERYTHING Why have multiple tradespeople or multiple companies working on the same job when we can manage the whole project start to finish and take responsibility and ownership for everything. REVIEWED & CHECKED We have been through numerous checks into our background by independent organisations including TrustATrader and others that you can find on our website Including criminal background checks, public liability insurance checks, necessary qualification checks. ALL WORK GUARANTEED At Andrey's we are so confident in the quality of our work that we offer a full one to ten year guarantee on any work we do, totally free of charge. This combined with our 1 million pound public liability insurance should give you full confidence in Andrey's Property Services.
AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Andrey completed work under contract with guarantees, but within 2 months the exterior paint peeled off & looks awful. After acknowledging the poor workmanship, Andrey has systematically avoided all accountability - dodging calls, breaking promises, and blatantly refusing to honour his contractual obligations. A complete lack of professional integrity, despite us having all records of communication - he cannot be trusted to stand behind his work.
Whether you require domestic, industrial or commercial electrical work, T7 Electrical is fully committed to professional and affordable electrical services. We carry out all aspects of electrical work, from design and consultation through to commissioning for clients in the domestic, commercial, industrial sectors. Our eye for quality and our dedication to the delivery of top-notch customer service are what make us the electrical company of choice for several areas in an around the north east.
Hi :) I have a range of experience across the trade, with specialised expertise in the following areas,over 12 years: -in Drylining -in Carpentry - in refurbishing restaurants and houses. -Loft Conversions -House extensions After all that, I finally have the team, which we can do jobs from A to Z - Plumbing (gas safe certified) - Electrical (Certified) -Roofs -Loft Conversions -Extensions -Groundwork -Gardening -Fencing -Waste removal I'm happy to help across all jobs and answer any questions. Thanks for passing by, and I hope to hear from you soon :)
Job done to very good quality but job did run over due to the Christmas period overall very happy
Very honest , transparent, and polite team , providing a service from concept design to finished product Unfortunately last job was unfinished due to an accident in filey in where I drowned trying to rescue someone in the sea Tragic failed rescue has miraculous happy ending , on youtube I suffered memory loss and severe problems after this and after working for another firm for short while I am ready to start again on my own so please take this into consideration with my last review
Unfortunately, over 12 months into the project, it is still not finished. There were a few circumstances outside of Tom's influence, but the delay's have been accompanied by repeated lies about finalising the project, and poor quality of the work that has been done.
•Plastering •Roughcast •Render Pristine Plastering covers all aspects of the trade with a professional quality finish every time at competitive prices. With over 15 years experience between our team we have you covered. From building sites to private high end work, insurance work planned and reactive I have done it all there is no stone unturned you can be confident in choosing us to carry out your work. No job is too big or small please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Scott was helpful in arranging a quote and date quickly for completing the work. He did an excellent job of plastering the room and left it nice and clean when finished. Really nice and friendly guy on top of that. Will definitely use again in the future!
We are happy to say that we are different, going that little bit further, to fulfil all of your requirements. Much of our business is acquired by recommendation and referral and we believe we can offer a price promise of beating any new quotation or, indeed any current maintenance costs that you have with your existing company. We are true experts in all of our fields and pride ourselves on our professionalism. AshTechEngineer With over 8+ experience in all aspects of domestic and commercial with various Of jobs we carry out work for:- -24/7 on - Call services -New Electrical Installation Certifications -Electrical Installation Condition Reports -Electric Vehicle Charing Points -Gas Safe -Plumbing -Electrical - Minor Works -Landlords Certifications -New builds -Rewiring and alterations -Assessment of the electrical safety of wiring -Distribution board replacement and upgrades. -Extra sockets, television and telephone points -Garden power and lighting -Security lighting -Smart Home Automation -Door access systems -Intercom systems -Fire Alarm systems and mains smoke detectors -CCTV installation -Data and telephone installation -TV, satellite and digital TV installation -Rooms & Bathroom Refurbishment -Handyman Works -we provide more services. Thanks for reading this Profile. Would be Pleasure Doing Business. Please Feel Free No obligation Quote.
We are small team of professionals in the construction private sector for more than 15 years. Based on our skills we aim to provide top quality various construction works
JND fitters quote for floor laminates was competitively priced and real value for money. They arrived early and finished the work before the deadline. Excellent quality of work, attention to detail and finishing touches. Highly recommended, definitely would hire them again
A highly skilled construction team with exceptional feedback and ratings. We pride ourselves on delivering work to the highest standards and remain committed to every project until it is fully completed.
Gareth is a great worker, very knowledgeable and friendly. Any problems he finds he runs solutions past you before doing the work. Would highly recommend him.
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