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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?
Derick's Home Improvements
Plaster Skimming
I prioritise in providing a good quality bespoke service for customers. I have more than 30 years experience in the business with a large clientele. I specialise in home renovations, no job is too big.
MB Home Improvements
Plaster Skimming
The Cubiq Construction team brings over 25 years of industry experience. Our SMSTS-qualified managers are skilled in delivering high-quality projects, ensuring client satisfaction and peace of mind. We are able to take on every aspect of all kinds of works, from surveying to design to structural calculations through each construction phase. What we offer is beautiful projects at attractive prices with a high standard of finish. The way we deliver is what makes us to stand out from other companies and and makes us a leader in the field. We are unique in the structure of our business, which has been formed to maximize quality, speed and efficiency for our clients and teams. We are committed to delivering on these aspects and our company’s vision. Highly professional services. Using the latest mechanical equipment. British standards high quality materials We provide the most reasonable prices. Following the global design. Undertake to meet the deadline.
Over 20 years experience with Multi-trade team for Plumbing, Plastering, Rendering, Building and General Maintenance services. Happy to help with any jobs, large or small! Get in touch and we will get the job done!
Great work - came next day. Father and son duo who completed the job to a high standard. Will definitely recommend
We are a small but capable building company. The images attached to my profile shows our current project. 6 new homes in Dursley. These are 5x 3 story homes and 1x 2 story home. This project has been completed over the last 14 months with some major structural complications that we have over come with skill and perseverance. 3 types of retaining walls implemented to help secure the land. Complicated foundations, both in depth and location. 36 pile foundations at a depth of 9 meters. My company can provide a structural engineer, architect, our own in house Gas safe engineer and all the trades to complete your project no matter how small or big. For those that require it we are registered with Advantage Structural Warranty allowing us the ability to offer a 10year structural warranty for new builds. Should my profile catch your eye then please do not hesitate to contact me.
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With over 25 years of experience, we are a fully insured professional building company specialize in all aspects of home improvements, We are a team of hard workers, giving the best at all the time. We pay a great attention to details and we put the quality first. Keeping the work area tidy is a habit for us. Quality and meeting the deadline are very important factors for us when we doing a job. Our goal is to achive customer satisfaction when we doing a job! We offer competitive prices and free quotes
Excellent family run business with father (Marion) who is the main man for the job Reasonable quotes and prompt with phone calls and replies Would highly recommend the team
We are a professional and friendly team we have over 25 years of experience in all plastering works, Been working on recommendations throughout ,we take complete pride on all our projects, and all have a great eye for detail , we push that extra mile for us and the customers to complete there dream. We also use a spray machine to paint and decorate and silicone rendering for the highest standard possible use GLM for the best and safest way forward
Absolute pleasure to have meet Grant and his team, rendered and painted my house to a high standard, left all areas clean and tidy, would not hesitate to use GLM again. Thanks again Grant. Lisa & Bill
House Extensions, Loft Conversions and Renovations Specialists
We have found drainage problems which the insurance company will not honour due to incorrect installation during this project. This has cost us dearly.
Vintage plasterers offer solutions for all aspects of lime work, Whether it be traditional, restoration or modern projects. By working closely with the client from start to finish and using over 40 years experience combined,
Mark was great.. Communicative, reliable, and eager to do the job exactly how I wanted it. Would definitely use him again.
BJK Building Services Ltd
Plaster Skimming
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At Surrey Hills Extend & Renovate we promise Quality and Craftsmanship. We take pride in delivering superior quality in every detail of our work, ensuring long-lasting and visually appealing results. We have a Customer-Centric Approach and your satisfaction is our top priority. We work closely with you, understanding your needs and preferences, to create spaces that truly reflect your vision.
Very good and profesional
Dumitru Negria
Plaster Skimming
Dumitru Negria Home Services Dumitru Negria Home Services is a premier home improvement and maintenance company founded and operated me, a dedicated sole trader with over 8 years of invaluable experience in the field. Specializing in a wide array of services including tiling, painting, plastering, bricklaying, carpentry, and general handyman tasks, I pride myself on delivering top-notch craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. In addition to my core services, I also collaborates with trusted professionals in the fields of electrical work and plumbing, ensuring that all aspects of your home improvement needs are met efficiently and effectively. Servicing the areas of Reading, Oxford, Banbury, and their surrounding regions, I am committed to bringing quality craftsmanship right to your doorstep. Igo above and beyond to ensure that every project is completed to the highest standards, with a keen attention to detail and a focus on customer satisfaction. Experience the difference with Dumitru Negria Home Services – where quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction are our top priorities.
Elevate your outdoor space with BH Home Services Ltd. We specialise in: Decking: Wood and composite options for a stylish, functional space. Fencing: Privacy and curb appeal in perfect balance. Slabbing: Transforming patios, walkways, and driveways. Gardening: Bringing vibrancy and charm to your landscape. Why Us? Expertise: Skilled craftsmen with years of experience. Quality: The finest materials for lasting results. Personalization: Tailored solutions for your unique vision.
These guys were excellent; they quoted a good price, turned up when they said they would, did a good job and tidied up after themselves. Very pleasant and helpful throughout. Happy to recommend.
HMR CIVIL ENGINEERING LIMITED
Plaster Skimming
Builder Boys
Plaster Skimming
With 10+ years of experience in the industry, Builder Boys Service brings a wealth of expertise and proven success to every project. Our extensive experience allows us to deliver top-quality workmanship, exceptional service, and unmatched professionalism. Trust in our seasoned team to bring your building visions to life with precision and dedication that only come with years of experience. We understand the importance of meeting deadlines and strive to complete every project within the agreed-upon timeframe. Our efficient planning, skilled team, and streamlined processes ensure that your project progresses smoothly and is completed on schedule. You can trust us to deliver exceptional results without compromising on quality, ensuring your satisfaction with our punctuality and dedication to meeting your timelines. We are deeply committed to providing our clients with the highest level of dedication and transparency throughout every step of their building journey. Our honest approach ensures that you can trust us to deliver on our promises and provide reliable solutions tailored to your needs. With Builder Boys, you can count on a partner who is genuinely dedicated to your satisfaction and committed to building lasting trust and relationships.
Gabrica Ltd provides reliable and high-quality property refurbishment and maintenance services across London. We specialise in kitchen and bathroom installations, tiling, flooring, carpentry, painting & decorating, and general home improvements. With years of hands-on experience, we take pride in delivering clean, precise workmanship and completing projects on time and within budget. ✔ Fully insured ✔ Attention to detail ✔ Clean and tidy work ✔ Friendly and professional service Customer satisfaction is our priority.
Brilliant. Efficient, hard working, friendly, professional, good vale and quality work. I'm very pleased and will use again.
Im not a biulder , a painter Decorater , Plastering service , if this is wot you require, then please give me a call .
I have no hesitation in recommending Gary and his company. He was quick to quote and start the job. Which is good, I hate waiting. We had hall, stairs and landing painted and it looks amazing. His work was clean and tidy and he was very respectful of our home.
First Renderers LTD
Plaster Skimming
First Renderers Ltd is a London-based, family-run rendering company with over 20 years of experience, delivering high-quality finishes across residential and commercial projects. Since our establishment in 2013, we have built a strong reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and consistently high standards of workmanship. We specialize in a wide range of rendering systems, including silicone render, Monocouche, traditional sand and cement, lime render, and external wall insulation (EWI) systems. We also work with leading manufacturers such as Permarock, K Rend, Weber, and other major systems, allowing us to offer tailored solutions to suit each property and budget. Our team is fully trained and experienced in applying modern and traditional rendering techniques, ensuring long-lasting, weather-resistant, and visually impressive results. Whether it’s a full property transformation or a smaller repair project, we approach every job with the same level of professionalism and care. At First Renderers, we pride ourselves on providing honest advice, competitive pricing, and a smooth, hassle-free service from start to finish. Our goal is to deliver results that not only protect your property but also enhance its appearance and value.
We are General Building Services ANGEL BUILDING@BUSINESS We look after our costumers for 26 years. All Work Undertaken
With over 35 years of industry experience in Northern Ireland, Aquaforce is Newtownabbey’s local experts when it comes to building services. Whether it’s domestic, contract or commercial work, no job is too big or too small for our highly skilled workforce. Our friendly and reliable team offers value for money and expertise across a range of building and construction services for both private and commercial clients. From extensions, repairs, loft conversions and damp proofing to insurance work and decorating, we handle everything. If you’re home or workplace is in need of repairs or renovations, don’t hesitate to contact Newtownabbey and Northern Ireland’s premier building services today.
Messed me around for weeks and then on the day job was due to start, they said they couldn't come. Very disappointed in the level of service. Avoid.
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