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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?

With over 10y on to construction industry,we operate a small family business owner aimed to provide an high quality services across the trades we offer, We have over 5y experience doing painting and decorating works leaving behind smile and the best experience, From Tv wall mountings to removals, storage ,and refurbishment,we cover all aspects of works . For a friendly man part of the team on site ,please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us..

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Reviewed by Allan on 15/7/2025

We do all aspects of bathrooms and minor building works, we take pride in our work and enjoy leaving the customers with a smile on their faces.

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Reviewed by Dee-Dee on 11/8/2024

Our build prerequisites were to divide a room & close an open archway, build two extra walls, move steps and a handrail, put in two entrances with doors for the new build and paint & carpet this area. Matthew (MDCC Construction) was qualified and very helpful – giving us good advice. He is an honest, tidy and thorough builder, willing to accommodate the building manager's questions and happy to make amendments. We were thrilled with the speed and finish of this build, and we will definitely use them again.

Free estimates , work done on hour, day or price basis. 24/7 locksmith Lock out emergency Installing Locks. ... Repairing Locks and doors Refurbishments bedroom-kitchen-bathrooms Hanging Pictures & Mirrors End of tenancy refurbishments Decorating Painting Wood paneling Home improvements Tiling DIY (Construction or Repair) Plastering Bricklaying Emergency plumbing

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Reviewed by Keith on 27/3/2025

Welcome to our page! How we can help? Our services -General Builders -Refurbishments -General maintenance -Garage Conversions -Plastering / Skimming -Drywall -Water escape -Insurance work considered -Painting and decorating -LVT -Laminate flooring Get in touch for more information and free estimates!

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Reviewed by Suzie on 30/1/2024

Excellent work by Daniel and George. Thank you guys. Will deffinitly use again.

At HomeHappy, we offer comprehensive Property Maintenance & Home Care services to keep your home in top condition year-round. From routine inspections and repairs to seasonal upkeep, our skilled team ensures every aspect of your property remains well-maintained and functional. Trust HomeHappy to provide reliable, expert care, preserving the value and comfort of your home. Our Services Include: Roofing Roof and Wall Coatings Roof Cleaning Roughcasting K-Rend Solar Power Architectural Drawings Mono-Blocking Resin Driveways Double/Triple Glazing Double Glazing Refurbishment Garage Conversions Roofing Repair Pressure Washing

At Render Plaster UK, we are your premier destination for expert plastering and rendering services, proudly based in Sheffield. With a solid reputation for excellence, we bring a wealth of experience to every project, transforming spaces with precision and artistry. Our Services: Plastering and Rendering: We specialize in the art of plastering and rendering, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and durability of your surfaces. Our skilled craftsmen deliver flawless finishes that stand the test of time. Painting (Internal and External): From refreshing interior spaces to revitalizing the exterior of your property, our painting services add the perfect touch to your home or business. Immerse your surroundings in vibrant colors with our expert painting team. Bathrooms: Elevate your bathroom experience with our professional services. Whether it's a modern revamp or a classic makeover, our team excels in creating stylish and functional bathroom spaces that suit your preferences. Tiling: Precision and attention to detail define our tiling services. From floors to walls, our expert tilers bring a touch of sophistication to your spaces, ensuring a seamless and visually stunning result. Kitchen Fitting: Transform your kitchen into the heart of your home with our kitchen fitting services. Our skilled team handles every aspect, from installation to finishing touches, ensuring a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen space. Our Team: Backed by a dedicated team of five professionals, Render Plaster UK prides itself on a collective commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Our skilled artisans bring a passion for their craft, ensuring that each project receives the attention it deserves. Assurances: Public Liability: Render Plaster UK operates with a strong sense of responsibility. Our public liability commitment ensures that you and your property are protected throughout the duration of our projects. Fully Insured: Your peace of mind matters to us. We are fully insured, providing an added layer of protection and confidence as we bring your vision to life.

Welcome to EXTENSION SPECIALIZE LTD, a , family run, local business that you can rely on. We are a team of skilled and able tradesmen who love a good challenge. Whether your job is large or small, indoors or outdoors, private or commercial, we are confident that we can deliver it with speed, cleanliness, excellent workmanship, quality materials and as a bonus, at an affordable price. ? Do you have a tap that's been dripping for years? Maybe you bought loft insulation and never had the time to lay it? When you build your flat-pack furniture do you spend most of your time scratching your head? Or have you saved for a complete interior or exterior makeover but don't know where to turn? ? EXTENSION SPECIALIZE provides you with a 'one stop shop' for all your property needs. We provide maintenance, repair and improvement services to homeowners, tenants, landlords, letting agents and commercial clients. Best of all, we are equally at home fixing small items on your 'to do' list as we are completing larger projects LIKE NEW HOUSE

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Reviewed by Ben on 6/4/2025

Did a great job at a affordable price

We are a hard working team with great experiance

full bathroom, kitchen, plaster, painted, I work professionally and cleanly, I've been doing this for more than 15 years, thank you

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Reviewed by Nakako on 25/11/2024

Silviu was efficient and the job was high quality!

Small family based company. Pride ourselves in providing an efficient, clean and professional work. We specialise in interior plastering but also provide services for a range of other trades such as: TILING - ELECTRICS - FENCING - BRICKLAYING - GROUNDWORKS - PLUMBING - CARPENTRY

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Reviewed by Raj on 16/11/2024

Amazing finish, just the kind of person who relates to the request required, can’t thank him enough for this work. Prompt on time and day set, worked around the family members in the house at his pace, highly recommended to others that need work done. 100% will be calling him back on others parts of my house that need to be done in 2025.

https://www.jmp-plumbing.co.uk JMP plumbing & heating we take pride in our high standard of work & customer service. Our main focus is to deliver a reliable contact for homeowners and businesses. Our services include but are not limited to; all aspects of plumbing from maintenance, installations & after care. Working alongside skilled tradesmen we cater plastering, carpentry and joinery, tiling and decorating. Fully insured, our work comes with long warranty to give you peace in mind when choosing a business to carry out your projects. Feel free to contact us with queries We offer 24/7 call out No obligation quotes

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Reviewed by Jane on 6/5/2025

Save your money and do not trust these guys to finish the job. Rubbish been outside my place for 5 weeks and have been told 5 different dates for collection and let down each time. Totally unorganized people and arrangements made for work and again let down night before. Plasterer has not finished and have been ghosted by them. Shocking l!

We at Express Services painting-decorating-tiling and flooring provide quality professional and affordable work carried out and aim to keep the clients happy and satisfied with our work.

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Reviewed by Cristiano on 8/12/2023

Hard working, honest and trustworthy. Good quality work and willing to go the extra mile.

Based in London AB Painting and decor is a trusted, rated and reliable company of painters and decorators. We have been providing customers in London and the surrounding area with a high-quality finish for over 17years We offer free quotation. Our services: Painting, Decorating, Wallpapering, Flooring, Tiling We guarantee well-done job for the best price.

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Reviewed by Paul on 6/2/2025

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Reviewed by Julie on 5/6/2024

Excellent, efficient job and area was left incredibly clean and tidy at the end. Very good communication throughout the quoting and arranging process. Highly recommended.

hi my name is Kevin I have been a plasterer now for 49 years I work with my son Lucas who has been plastering for 12 years we have a combined wealth of knowledge in all aspects of plastering with over 60 years in the trade we are polite friendly very clean and most of all we leave a first class job every time

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Reviewed by Steve on 4/7/2025

Great job Kev. Super smooth plaster, very tidy in your work and a very competitive price. Lovely flat ceilings instead of lumpy Artex. Thanks again for your expertise.

General builders and energy saving specialists since 1994

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Reviewed by Pauline on 20/11/2023

Came out as arranged and said would give a quote for several jobs required including the damp repair .he said he would send quotes over on the friday 3rd november and am still waiting.

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. :-(

Stuart has been in the Building industry for 25 years and cover a broad spectrum of building works services ranging from :- plastering *decorating *bespoke bathrooms,laminate flooring and kitchens and plumbing.Fully insured (certificate on request)

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Reviewed by Phil on 1/3/2025

Stuart is a great communicator and gave some good advice. He did a great job and completed the work on time. I will definitely use him again.

Providing a professional Painting, Decorating and Plastering Service both Internal & External. My services include but are not limited to; Plastering- Skimming Internal Painting & Decorating Door / Window Painting External Wall Painting I pride myself and am dedicated to providing high quality workmanship to ensure all of my customers are completely happy and satisfied.

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Reviewed by Dom on 9/7/2025

Excellent communications, very competitive quote. Nothing was too much trouble. Very neat and tidy team who were so friendly and professional. Quick and hardworking with a quality finish. Dog friendly too! Very satisfied with our whole experience and thoroughly recommend. Thank you Vito and team.

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