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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

  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?

Hello, We are BUILD SAFE HOMES LTD Building contractor with 20 years of experience -Extensions -Loft Conversions -Kitchen fitting -Bathroom fitting -Plumbing -Electrical -Tiling -Carpentry -Decoration -Decking -Driveways -Garden offices -Scaffolding -Roofing All works are insured and covered by 12 months warranty. Please shortlist our company and we will be delighted to assist you with your building project! Regards BUILD SAFE LTD

London Development uk ltd is our company, we have been trading for over 12 years in the construction business. - We are a fully insured company with a big portfolio of jobs completed and we are friendly and reliable on any work and business that is coming across. - We can do big jobs as new buildings or full refurbishments, basements, extensions, lofts conversions etc and also we can do small jobs as bathroom refurbishments or even smaller is always space and time for a new job. - We guarantee you that you will get the best workmanship on your job with best skills and acknowledge in the construction industry, time effective and costly effective for customers. Try our company and you will gain the benefits!!!

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Reviewed by Rita on 25/12/2023

Peter contacted me and was amazing, professional with his quote and recommendation. Very clean, tidy service and very open and honest. Peter and his team are excellent builders.

We are here to save your home from water damage with peace of mind, We have been about for many years to secure your first defense from bad weather entering your home

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Reviewed by Maxine on 14/4/2025

Nothing was to much trouble.Felt as if I had known Scott years.Proper professional and well pleased with what he done.Cheers Scott

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

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Reviewed by Amanda on 4/4/2025

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 !

Pocock developments has been trading in and around Berkshire and the home counties for some 30 years with great references. its a family run business with myself and my wife Kerry. We Produce fixed price quotations. we are Elecsa certified.

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Reviewed by Susanne on 25/3/2025

Spencer at Pocock Developments project managed our work very well. From the fully detailed quote, to advising on any pricing changes and providing some extra plastering work - got to say everything was managed smoothly and transparently, and the one hiccup over the roof tiles was put right quickly. Plus we appreciated Myron and Ivan's eye for detail and managing their work around the weather. Our two dormers look great, so thanks Pocock Development and we'd definitely use them again ????

Hi my name is Jordan John Phillip and my company is Jordan JP Plastering. I am a clean, effective and professional plasterer. I take pride in my plastering ability and I always do my best to keep my customers happy with my work.

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Reviewed by Ged on 2/5/2025

Jordan is a brilliant 'find'. Responsive, professional, tidy and high quality work, and a very fair price. Couldn't really ask for anything more.... A++++

Top Building Solutions Ltd are your local building maintenance experts that cover every aspect of interior and exterior renovations for both commercial and domestic properties. With 13 years of experience in the construction industry we have gained the skills and expertise to over deliver on every job we oversee. We carry out any job in the fastest time possible with no compromise on quality.

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Reviewed by Bola on 3/4/2025

Could not have asked for a more professional fast working team. We actually gave them more work to do and they did it excellently too. Thanks for the great jobs done we’ll be doing business with you again!

over 10 years experience ALL TRADES

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Reviewed by Campbell on 19/2/2025

I hired Tomasz to renovation my shower room. He removed old fittings, ran new plumbing and tiled the wall. However, he scratched my new unit, put paint on my bare wood door frame, put the shower up squint, fitted tile trim with silicon, left holes in the wall, built a pipe box too big, covered it with ugly correx, lost screws to fasten the towel rail to the wall so it's loose, and left it leaking, and installed tray in wrong place in shower. I had to undo much of his work and finish the job myself. :-(

Fully inusred plasterer taking on all jobs from a small ceiling patch to a full house plasterboarding & skimming, OVER 50 5 STAR reviews across google , Facebook & Checkatrade.

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Reviewed by Joyce on 2/2/2025

Welcome to AM Maintenance, We specialise in all aspects of building and maintenance works. Ranging from a leak in the roof or a new bathroom. we have an extensive range of services at competitive prices whilst delivering quality.

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Reviewed by Nicole on 5/11/2024

Dan & team did a fantastic job throughout and we are so pleased with the end result. They've transformed our home. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a builder they can trust. Thanks again!

K&M BUILDING SYSTEM is a business that specialises in all aspects of building. From extensions to driveways, kitchens, bathrooms or demolition. No job is too big or too small. We are fully covered with public liability insurance giving us and our customers peace of mind when carrying out your project. We always aim to complete your job on time to a very high standard with very competitive prices. We provide building services across Edinburgh – 7 days a week.

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Reviewed by Donal on 11/1/2025

Sinevir Construction is your trusted partner in construction with over 15 years of experience. We offer a full range of services, including plumbing, tiling, bricklaying, plastering, carpentry, bathroom installations, and building homes from the ground up. We guarantee high quality, adherence to standards, and timely project completion. Our team of professionals uses the best materials and advanced technologies to ensure durability and reliability. We also provide competitive prices, offering an excellent balance of quality and cost. We value open collaboration and consider all your preferences at every stage of the project. Clients choose us for our professionalism, accuracy, and commitment to quality. With Sinevir Construction, your construction dreams become reality, backed by superior results and the best fair pricing.

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Reviewed by Jenny on 19/2/2025

Very pleased with the work done by Sinevir. I hired them to build a reinforced foundation for an extension, and everything was completed to a high standard. They worked carefully, met deadlines, and used quality materials. It’s clear they know their job well. The foundation is strong and reliable. Thanks for the professional approach!

Hi im a builder with over 20 years experience in construction and decorating I'm a team of 6 good workers wii do olmost evri job inside and out side home restaurants club's and mani more. No job to small or to big.

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Reviewed by Tracey on 12/3/2025

Very helpful and efficient

Hi we are a family run business that’s been operating for 40+ years we cover all aspects of property maintenance down to internal paint correction on your walls, to complete re roofing of your property. Due to us being a family run business you have none of the normal communication issues you would have from much larger companies. We are always one phone call away to answer any questions you may have

Building Contractor & Commercial Builder in Radlett, St Albans & Surrounding Areas | S.T. Contracts Welcome to S.T. Contracts, your reliable domestic building contractor and commercial builder with a proud history of excellence since 2009. As a family-run business based in Watford, we bring over 50 years of combined industry experience to every project, serving clients across Watford, Radlett, St Albans and surrounding areas with professionally executed property refurbishments, solar panel installations, garden rooms, garage conversions, kitchens and bathrooms and more. For high-value projects, we also offer nationwide coverage. Our company motto, “A company built on its reputation,” reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch results on time and within budget. We are fully insured and proud members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) and the Guild of Master Craftsmen, with all trades provided in-house. Our team of fully trained and qualified professionals, with certifications such as City & Guilds in plastering and SMSTS, are all DBS checked to ensure safety and reliability.

Lambarde is located in the Sidcup area and covers most of the South east, we have a combined experience of 62 years, I started carpentry and building work as soon as I left school then going to college for two years becoming a fully qualified carpenter with Levels 1,2, NVQ Diploma. All of our team carry public liability insurance, so you’re in safe hands. We also work alongside other fully qualified trustworthy tradesman for our refurbishment works. We pride ourselves on: • Workmanship • Time keeping • Honest communication Portfolio on Instagram: Lambarde_ We specialize in: • extensions •.Loft conversions • Kitchens • Internal and external doors • Skirting and architrave • garden room/man caves • wall panelling • Roofs cut/pitched • Decking • Flooring laminate/herringbone • Ironmongery • Cladding • Refurbishments • Painting and decorating Free quote available

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Reviewed by Mark on 7/1/2023

Scott and his team did a fantastic job with our loft conversion. He was approachable, honest and friendly throughout. But most of all an excellent carpenter who did a first rate job with our loft and also dealt with our many requests and amendments with patience and professionalism. I have recommended Scott to friends and neighbours already and would recommend him for any work you are doing.

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

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Reviewed by teresa on 30/4/2025

CG Building LTD , it is a small company , established back in 2016. We carry work all around UK , but now we are based in Somerset and we cover all surrounding areas. •We take small & big jobs ! •We do all aspects building •We offer a friendly and reliable service, working closely with the client to make sure they have a clear understanding of the works that are being carried out throughout the process.  -Renovations- - Kitchen and bathroom insulations- Plastering. - Painting and decorating. - Carpentry-

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Reviewed by Rickie on 15/3/2023

Very professional. I would definitely recommend this trades person. Good pricing and great work. I am keeping his contract for work in the future.

KFT Electrical and Refurbishments Cover all aspects of electrics So if you are in need of: New or replacements Fault finding Sockets/lights Extractor fan/towel radiators Rewire Smoke alarm Outdoor lighting/sockets Etc As well as all aspects of refurbishments and renovations. Give us a call for a quick but professional quote. No job too big or too small

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Reviewed by William on 28/10/2024

Very proficient

UTB CONSTRUCTION was established in 2013 and is general contractor offering construction services in terms of full and part renovations houses, extensions, lofts conversion , first fix Carpentry, second fix Carpentry , bathroom fittings, kitchens fittings new built houses and summer homes,Drylining , plastering & Rendering, Decorating, specialist with driveways resin bond, polished concrete, paterne imprinted concrete,tarmac, and block paving.

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Reviewed by Derek on 28/6/2024

Dimitrios did an excellent job working rapidly and efficiently and very willing to do extra work to achieve perfection

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