All Bathroom fittersBath ResurfacingBathroom DesignBathroom InstallationBathroom RepairBathroom TilingComplete Bathroom RefurbishmentWet Room InstallationAll Blacksmith / Metal workersDecorative Ironmongery and MetalworkMetal Kitchen WorktopsMetal StaircasesSecurity FencingSecurity Gates & BollardSecurity GrillWooden / Metal / Wire FencesZinc / Metal RoofAll BricklayersChimney Building / RepairGarden WallPizza OvenPointing / RepointingStonework / Stone CladdingAll BuildersCavity Wall InsulationCellar & Basement ConversionChimney Building / RepairCladdingConservatoryDisability Access InstallationGarage ConversionGarden Office / Studio ConstructionGroundwork / FoundationsHome ImprovementsHouse ExtensionLoft ConversionLog Cabins / Timber Framed BuildingMetal StaircasesMould / Damp ControlPartition WallPeriod / Listed Building WorksPizza OvenPorch / CanopyPost Construction CleaningSteel Fabrication / Structural steelworkSuspended CeilingUnderfloor InsulationUnderpinning / Piling / FoundationsWooden StaircasesAll Carpenter / JoinersBespoke FurnitureBespoke KitchensBuilt-In FurnitureFitted Bedrooms / WardrobesFlat Pack Furniture AssemblyFloor Sanding & FinishingGarden Shed / PlayhouseGeneral Fitted FurnitureHot Tub Installation / RepairLaminate FlooringLog Cabins / Timber Framed BuildingPeriod / Listed Building WorksRadiator CoversSkirting Board InstallationSolid Wood FlooringWood Floor Sanding / StainingWooden Casement WindowWooden Cladding /Fascias/ SoffitsWooden DeckingWooden Doors - ExternalWooden Doors - InternalWooden Sash WindowWooden ShutterWooden StaircasesAll CCTV / Satellites / AlarmsAerial & Satellite Dish InstallationAerial InstallationBurglar, Security & Intruder Alarm InstallationCCTV InstallationDigital Home NetworkFire Alarm InstallationSound & Audio Visual InstallationAll CleanersCarpet CleaningCommercial Window CleaningConservatory Cleaning / MaintenanceDeep Cleaning - CommercialDeep Cleaning - DomesticDomestic House Cleaning: One OffDomestic House Cleaning: RegularEnd of Tenancy CleaningOffice / Commercial CleaningOven CleaningPost Construction CleaningRepeat Wheelie Bin CleanWindow CleaningAll Drainage SpecialistsDrains - Installation / Unblocking / CleaningSeptic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / CleaningAll Driveway paversBrick / Block PavingConcrete DrivewayResin DrivewayTarmac DrivewayAll ElectriciansAccess Control / Door EntryAerial & Satellite Dish InstallationAir Conditioning / RefrigerationCarbon Monoxide Alarms - InstallationDomestic Appliance RepairElectric Car Charging Point InstallationElectric Oven / Hob - InstallationElectric Underfloor HeatingElectrical Inspection Condition ReportElectrical Installation / TestingEmergency ElectricianExternal LightingHot Tub Installation / RepairInternal LightingLandlord Reports / Safety ChecksSmoke Alarm - InstallationAll Floor fittersCarpet FittersElectric Underfloor HeatingExternal TilingFloor Sanding & FinishingFloor TilingLaminate FlooringLinoleum FlooringPlastic / Rubber FlooringPolished ConcreteScreedingSolid Wood FlooringStone / Concrete PavingVinyl FlooringWater Underfloor HeatingWooden DeckingAll Gardener / Landscape gardenersArtifical Grass / Astro TurfBrick / Block PavingGarden ClearanceGarden DesignGarden MaintenanceGarden Shed / PlayhouseGarden WallLandscapingLawn Care Services - Grass Cutting / Turfing / SeedingPlantingPond & Water FeatureRepeat Garden MaintenanceSoil Irrigation / DrainageStone / Concrete PavingTree Surgery / ConsultancyWooden / Metal / Wire FencesWooden / Metal GatesWooden DeckingAll Gas / Heating engineersElectric Boiler - InstallationElectric Boiler - RepairElectric Boiler - ServiceGas Boiler - InstallationGas Boiler - RepairGas Boiler - ServiceGas Cooker / Hob - InstallationGas Cooker / Hob - RepairGas FireHeat Pump (Air source/ Ground Source)Hot Water Tank/Appliance Tank ThermostatsOil-Fired BoilerRadiatorSolar Panel InstallationWater Underfloor HeatingAll HandypersonsBlind / Curtain / Shutter - InstallationCat Flap - InstallationDomestic Appliance RepairElectric Oven / Hob - InstallationFlat Pack Furniture AssemblyHome Maintenance / RepairJet / Power WashingPerspex / Protective ScreensSkirting Board InstallationAll Kitchen SpecialistsBespoke KitchensComplete Kitchen RefurbishmentFitted KitchensKitchen Design / InstallationKitchen TilingKitchen Worktops - StoneLaminate / Wooden Kitchen WorktopsMetal Kitchen WorktopsAll LocksmithsBurglar RepairsDoor OpeningDoor ReplacementEmergency / 24 Hour LocksmithLock Fitting / RepairAll Loft Conversion SpecialistsHome ImprovementsLoft ConversionMetal StaircasesVelux / Skylight WindowWooden StaircasesAll Painter and decoratorsDoor / Window PaintingExternal Wall PaintingInternal Painting & DecoratingMould / Damp ControlWall Murals / Paint EffectsAll Pest ControlersCommercial Pest ControlResidential Pest ControlAll Plasterer / RenderersDecorative Cornicing / PlasterworkDry Lining & Plasterboard - InstallationDry Lining & Plasterboard - RepairExternal RenderingExternal Wall InsulationInternal RenderingPebble DashingPlaster SkimmingPolished / Other Plaster FinishScreedingStandard CovingAll PlumbersBathroom InstallationBathroom, Kitchen and WC PlumbingEmergency / 24 Hour PlumberGuttering and Rainwater PipeHot Tub Installation / RepairPlumbing Repair & MaintenancePower Showers and PumpRadiatorSolar Panel InstallationSprinkler SystemWater Tanks and Immersion HeaterWater Underfloor HeatingAll Removal ServicesHouse ClearanceHouse RemovalsMan/Woman with a VanSpecialist RemovalsStorageWaste RemovalAll Renewable Energy SpecialistsElectric Car Charging Point InstallationHeat Pump (Air source/ Ground Source)Solar Panel Cleaning & RepairSolar Panel InstallationAll RoofersChimney Building / RepairFlat Roof - Installation / RepairGuttering and Rainwater PipeLeadworkRoof CleaningRoof InsulationSlate & Tiled RoofThatched RoofuPVC Fascias / Soffits / CladdingVelux / Skylight WindowWooden Cladding /Fascias/ SoffitsZinc / Metal RoofAll Security systems / AlarmsAccess Control / Door EntryBurglar, Security & Intruder Alarm InstallationCCTV InstallationFire Alarm InstallationGarage Doors - Installation / RepairLock Fitting / RepairRoller Shutters - Installation / RepairSecurity FencingSecurity Gates & BollardSecurity GrillAll Specialist TradespersonsAerial & Satellite Dish InstallationAir Conditioning / RefrigerationBrick / Block PavingBrick & Stone CleaningCellar & Basement ConversionDamp ProofingDemolitionDigital Home NetworkDisabled Access / Mobility ServiceFireplaceScaffoldingSound & Audio Visual InstallationSound ProofingStored GasStored OilThermal InsulationTimber Preservation, Woodworm & RotWaste RemovalWater Underfloor HeatingWhole Internal RefurbishmentAll Stoneworker / StonemasonsBrick & Stone CleaningFireplaceGarden WallKitchen Worktops - StoneLandscapingPolished ConcreteStone / Concrete PavingStonework / Stone CladdingAll Swimming Pool SpecialistsSwimming Pool DesignSwimming Pool InstallationSwimming Pool MaintenanceAll TilersExternal TilingFloor TilingWall TilingAll Traditional CraftspersonsBespoke FurnitureDecorative Cornicing / PlasterworkDecorative GlazingDecorative Ironmongery and MetalworkFireplacePeriod RestorationStonework / Stone CladdingThatched RoofWall Murals / Paint EffectsWooden Doors - InternalWooden ShutterAll Tree SurgeonsCrown ReductionCrown ThinningStump GrindingTree FellingTree Surgery / ConsultancyAll Window fitter / Conservatory installersConservatoryConservatory Cleaning / MaintenanceDecorative GlazingPerspex / Protective ScreensSingle / Double GlazinguPVC Windows & DoorVelux / Skylight WindowWooden Casement WindowWooden Doors - ExternalWooden Sash WindowAsk a tradespersonCost guidesHomeowner advice centreInspiration centreTrade advice centreTrends reportLondonBerkshireBuckinghamshireEast SussexHampshireIsle of WightKentOxfordshireSurreyWest SussexBristolCornwallDevonDorsetGloucestershireSomersetWiltshireBedfordshireCambridgeshireEssexHertfordshireNorfolkSuffolkHerefordshireShropshireStaffordshireWarwickshireWest MidlandsWorcestershireDerbyshireLeicestershireLincolnshireNorthamptonshireNottinghamshireRutlandEast Riding of YorkshireNorth YorkshireSouth YorkshireWest YorkshireCheshireCumbriaGreater ManchesterLancashireMerseysideDurhamNorthumberlandTyne & WearClwydGwyneddGwentMid GlamorganSouth GlamorganDyfedWest GlamorganPowysAyrshire and ArranBerwickshireCity of EdinburghDumfriesDunbartonshireLanarkshireMidlothianRenfrewshireRoxburgh- Ettrick and LauderdaleThe Stewartry of KirkcudbrightTweeddaleWigtownAberdeenshireAngusCity of DundeeCity of GlasgowClackmannanEast LothianFifePerth and KinrossStirling and FalkirkWest LothianArgyll and ButeBanffshireCaithnessCity of AberdeenInvernessKincardineshireMorayNairnOrkneyRoss and CromartyShetlandSutherlandWestern IslesAntrimArmaghDownFermanaghLondonderryTyrone

Find a local plaster skimming specialist

Post your job for free. Get quotes. Read reviews.

Over 10,000 rated tradespeople
are ready to help you get your job done

Over 3 million happy homeowners
have found a quality tradesperson

Over 1 million ratings
with 88,000 5* ratings in the last 12 months

Join our group of happy customers

Thousands of 5 star reviews

Read real reviews from customers about their service experiences.

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.

Browse Plaster Skimming specialists

Take a look at our Plaster Skimming specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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. 
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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?

With over 41 years' experience in creating high quality bespoke building projects, look no further than Turley Properties Ltd for all construction / Landscaping services for your property. * Call Us Now For A Free Quote

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Caoimhin on 8/12/2025

We are a friendly ,professional ,speedy and quality service team in the Surrey area . We work on small and large projects covering all aspects of Decorating and Property Maintenance. We offer a competitive price and our work is of the highest standard.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Stephen on 25/7/2025

Piotr was absolutely brilliant. He was engaging and talked me through what he was going to do. His work was outstanding and he left the rooms he had been decorating cleaner than when he arrived! I would thoroughly recommend Piotr to anyone who wants a truly professional decorator.

I’ve set up my company in January 2013 with a selection of skilled tradesmen to carry out any job requirements from big to small like: -Loft Conversions -House Extensions -Full Refurbishments -Garage Conversions -Porches and Driveways -Complete Heating Systems -Kitchens and Bathrooms Refurbishments -Plastering,Tiling,Flooring,Painting,Electric

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Mike on 8/2/2019

The team is very polite and efficient, did a good job and cleaned up after. Recommended.

Although I am new to rated People - I have 12years experience in the building industry and I later specialise in flat roofs, fencing and painting & decorating.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Chrissy on 30/8/2022

The team of men worked very hard , they cleaned up and was very tidying and respectful of my property

I have been in the construction industry for 6 years and have a lot of experience. I can undertake many trades. I started off as a plasterer+tiller and also went to college bricklaying. I can lay patios and also slate/tile roofs. I work alone but also have experienced tradesmen if needed. I sub contract to building firms mainly but signed up to rated people to take on other projects. JTAplasteringandbuilding

Our team has delivered high-standard work for over 15 years in the UK. we provide skimming works, painting, spray painting, renovation works, carpentry and most general building works! references are available on request!

Established in 2002 as a sole trader, I have developed a number of properties ranging from barn conversions to new build apartments. I have also project managed a number of bespoke new builds and conversions for high profile clients. All trades available!

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Jonathan on 5/9/2024

Fantastic service from start to finish. Would certainly recommend. Has every trade available and the job went smooth.

I am builder I have been working from last 9 years in this building industry And trying to provide quality work to british standard I can do any kind of building job If you need my any help Feel free to contact me

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Cameron on 7/5/2026

Do you want the team that will improve your interiors to have a good work ethic and be detail-oriented? Look no further – at Altun building and Renovation, our goal is to go the extra mile and deliver excellent results of the finest quality. We provide a range of home improvement services that make your home more comfortable and spacious than before. With over 12 years in the industry, we are proud of our progress and in our commitment to ensuring our clients are never disappointed. From room extensions to kitchen renovations and from plastering to painting, tiling and everything in between, our abilities and expertise mean that we can make your dream home a firm possibility. Our comprehensive services can cater to any need and we work with rigorous attention to detail. Right from when you first contact us, we ensure a stress-free and reliable service with your every need taken care of. There won’t be any delays or misunderstandings nor will we ever go beyond the budget. Instead, you will find an efficient and friendly service from a team that isn’t afraid of long hours or challenging projects. Our rates are reasonable.Please contact us for a detailed chat and we hope to work on your project soon.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by john on 24/2/2020

We were well please with Utim, his professionilsm, courtesy, promptness, his attituded to do the job right. We would recommend him, if we need work done in the future we will give him first refusal.

With over 15 years building experience in the construction industry, GN Building Services (Stafford) Ltd are experts in all aspects of construction and project management. We specialise in both traditional and cutting-edge design and building methods. GN Building Services (Stafford) Ltd is not only a building company. We cover the entire project, from planning, design, building, renovating, electrical installation, tiling, and plumbing. We do not use subcontractors; all work is completed by our own employees. This means no delays, no waiting for specialist tradesmen; we finish the entire job within budget and on time.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Sarah on 4/8/2016

If you want building work done then GN Building Services are brilliant, not just excellent!. Before we said to go ahead he had introduced us to four former clients and showed us the work completed. He and his team are probably the hardest working tradesmen I have ever come across and talk about working to time and budget. I should really keep this review quiet as they are very much in demand and I need some more work doing - but I can not rate them highly enough.

Local small business offering multi trades. All pictures are of jobs undertaken by myself. Kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, plastering, tiling, decorating and carpentry. High quality workmanship carried out by a reliable conscientious tradesman.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Craig on 20/4/2024

Quoted but just too expensive

I have 35 years multi-skilled carpentry and plumbing experience and have the skills and expertise to manage your project. I am based in Cheltenham operating within the Gloucestershire area. I do domestic and commercial projects from conception to completion. Kitchens: - Complete kitchen installation - Worktops and cabinet fittings - Flooring and tiling - Appliance fitting - Relationship with Howden's Wren Kitchens Bathrooms: - Bathroom installations - Flooring and tiling - Plumbing, repair and maintenance Exteriors: - Patios and decking - Garden office installation - Fencing - Landscaping - Garden features Carpentry & Joinery: - Flooring - Staircases and balustrades - Doors - Wooden Cladding - Plastering

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Caroline on 26/5/2023

Quietly spoken with a smile. Works hard and extremely professional in both conduct and workmanship. Very pleased with his work and have no hesitation in recommending him. Have every intention of using him again

Family run fabrication and welding business and construction company offering all types of manufacturing and installation that works closely with our clients our aim is to provide fabrication and welding solutions also building construction with honesty and quality also help to complete project on time

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by tina on 3/6/2025

What an amazing job John did. He is a very talented ironworker . Our gate looks like it was made for our house . Would highly recommend .

Welcome to Greystone Roofing & Building We provide professional roofing and property improvement services designed to protect and enhance your home or business. From repairs and replacements to full installations and upgrades, our experienced team delivers high-quality workmanship with precision and attention to detail. We create strong, durable solutions built to withstand the elements while improving the value and appearance of your property. Greystone Roofing & Building is your trusted partner for expert

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Joseph on 6/3/2026

At Sabr construction We Provide customers with the best quality of work for affordable prices.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Senthil Kumar on 26/11/2024

Nice work, many thanks Omar

We are a midlands based building company who specialise in renovations, extensions and upgrades to your property. We also carry out all general repairs. We have many year’s experience with time served tradesmen who are fully qualified in all aspects of work required for your project, and we carry out all projects with our own in house team members.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Sally on 25/1/2026

In CT Interiors we specialise in all aspects of internal domestic works i.e. conversions, refurbishments, kitchens, bathrooms, windows and decorations. Our remits is to deliver our service, promptly, efficiently and professionally.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Jen on 9/5/2026

Howdens flat-pack kitchen installation with full design provided. 5-day job agreed, but arrogant attitude, references to “bigger jobs in Fulham,”. Issues dismissed but I should be grateful for his time and price. I did not negotiate his price. Claims “out of scope” items e.g. tall larder unit, integrated bin, drawer under oven. Incomplete work: door panel not fitted, tall larder shelf not installed, base unit wrongly placed, units with gaps. Waste left. Kitchen messy. Paid to leave.

carpentry LTD, fitted laminat flooring, solid wood flooring, inginering wood floring, carpet.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Richard on 18/2/2026

Quick, efficient, tidy and a pleasure to deal with

Foster Hart Kitchens deliver a comprehensive service to fully manage your kitchen installation. We offer quality modern, designer and traditional fitted kitchens, at an affordable price, with free planning , design and advice. Proud members of IKBBI.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Ralu on 10/11/2022

Replaced kitchen worktops and a large kitchen cupboard and the work was done to a very good standard. Would recommend this contractor. Good job Paul. Thanks

I am Adam Martelette. Founder and Manager for a our small family business Martelette&sons, based in The city of Cardiff. Having the highest certification possible to obtain in Great Britain, we utilise these skills along with our shared 20+ years experience to provide high quality work at low affordable prices. We specialise in all Aspects of Carpentry and Fencing, but also work along side other trades such as scaffolding, plastering etc. So orchestrating jobs that require multiple different types of work can be tackled with ease. Feel free to give the team a call / message for a free scheduled quotation.

Post your job for free

app-icon

Get our app for homeowners

  • Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
  • Add photos to get more accurate quotes
  • View tradespeople's profiles