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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?

Small team of hardworking individuals dedicated to bringing the best to our clients.

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Reviewed by James on 13/4/2025

Amazing service - attentive and always communicative in terms of doing the right thing. Great job!

We design and deliver a truly personal result that is perfect for you and your family. From inspiration to installation, you can expect the highest level of personal service at every stage of your Blossom experience. We have over 20 years experience and specialise in plan and design. We can offer you a free, no obligation home visit to discuss your requirements ,where we can show you a 360 degree photo realistic view of your proposed project prior to any work being undertaken ,enabling you to see what can be achieved for your new kitchen/bedroom/bathroom/home studies or internal renovation. We will project manage your complete project, and work alongside you to achieve you vision. We can undertake electrics, plumbing, plastering ,joinery and all internal finishes to your home. We can also go that extra mile to help you achieve your “show home” finish by assisting you with your interior design. Services we offer: Bespoke Kitchens Bespoke Furniture Bathrooms/Wet Rooms Bedrooms Home Studies Interior Design Plastering Tiling Flooring Decorating We operate mainly in the Greater Manchester area, however this can be negotiable.

LD Design & Build is a trusted construction company specializing in a wide range of services to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients. With a focus on quality and attention to detail, we offer expert plastering and rendering, painting and decorating, plasterboard installation, as well as handyman and carpentry services. Whether you're renovating a single room or undertaking a large-scale project, our skilled team is committed to delivering superior craftsmanship and exceptional customer service every step of the way. At LD Design & Build, we take pride in transforming spaces and ensuring our clients' vision comes to life with precision and care.

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Reviewed by Scott on 30/11/2025

A highly competent, enthusiastic and hardworking team with ability to adapt to any environment. We are flexible guys who enjoys of challenges of meeting deadlines and targets. We have excellent communication skills and attention to details. Positive and highly self motivated professionals with proven excellent work skills.

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Reviewed by Anthony on 28/6/2019

Truly excellent honest reliable and helpful service and team. Highly highly recommended

Rimi construction limited ! Guaranteed hight quality job with the best prices .

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Reviewed by Deepak on 30/9/2022

Very happy with Rimi. He at all times came up with ideas and solutions. We had a rear garden job. Involved brick work, decking, retiling, soil work,painting, creating new landscape overall. He did it professionally and in time. He was patient with delays in material supply and kept following up. Overall quite pleased with the end result

Revive Building Services provides building and property maintenance in Dorset and surrounding areas. Based in Poole, Dorset Our services include: - Painting & decorating - Plastering - Carpentry - Electrical - Tiling - Flooring - Renovations & refurbishments

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Reviewed by Barbara on 29/1/2026

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Reviewed by Wendy on 30/7/2023

I could cry. Don't pick him, I coukd have done this better myself. This man caused a weeks worth of mess for us to put right. He got paint on windows, tiles in kitchen and all surfaces in kitchen. Terrible decorater... We wasted a week and our money. He does like a tea break though, so if you do have him. Keep a close eye on him.

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Reviewed by Katia on 25/10/2025

Alex visited me for a quote. One member of his team came on the same day and did the front garden quickly and efficiently.

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Reviewed by Sam on 18/11/2024

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Reviewed by Ian on 28/1/2026

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Reviewed by Jas on 19/5/2025

Kamil did a great job for me. He has got very good attention to detail and made sure everything looked smart with sharp lines (as requested by me!) Fear not, go ahead and book him in!

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Reviewed by ian on 14/5/2025

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Reviewed by John on 16/12/2025

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Reviewed by Simon on 28/9/2025

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Reviewed by Paul on 1/2/2026

I've been plastering now for over 30 years working on all kinds of contracts from housing sites to schools and private houses leaving what matters most Good clean efficient work at a reasonable cost to the customer

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Reviewed by Nena on 10/7/2025

Very reliable, punctual and did a very good job. Thank you so much.

With over a decade of hands-on experience delivering premium homes fit-outs, I specialize in transforming spaces into elegant, functional sanctuaries tailored to the highest standards of design and craftsmanship. Over the past 10 years, I’ve led and completed a wide range of bespoke refurbished projects in some of the most prestigious residential and commercial properties across [your region or city]. My work blends precision installation with an eye for detail, using only the finest materials and working closely with architects, interior designers, and clients to ensure a flawless finish every time. From custom stonework and high-spec tiling to smart tech integrations and luxury fixtures, every element is carefully executed to create a space that reflects sophistication and comfort. Core Strengths: •Luxury homes installation & project management •In-depth knowledge of high-end brands & materials •Seamless integration of lighting, underfloor heating & smart controls •Stone, marble, and bespoke tile craftsmanship •Collaborative approach with design and build teams •Discreet, clean, and reliable workmanship in occupied homes Whether it’s a minimalist modern spa or a timeless classic retreat, I bring each vision to life with unmatched attention to detail and pride in the final result.

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Reviewed by Phil on 8/7/2025

Brilliant service, arived on time and carried out the job in very quick time. Cleaned up after job compleet. Very happy to recomend.

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 ????

Neil Prescott @Nsp Carpentry Qualified level 3 carpenter & Multitrader with 20+yrs experience in all aspects of internal and external carpentry, including Plastering, basic plumbing and Electrics. Ranging from small to big projects. Please check out some of my work pictures attached and a list of all the works I can carry out confidently. I always strive to deliver customers expectations with a open,honest approach and finishing with a high level of standards. Thanks Neil

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Reviewed by Imran on 28/7/2025

Great service, Neil is really friendly and patient despite all my questions.

My company is ?been registered since 2016 and I have been working since 1987 I have so much experience of working. Is been 32 to 33 years of work in this kind of industry we Have so much experience also we promise and we deliver our work also the work that we do is exceptional?? if you are looking for a plasterer to do your job quick for you then you don’t need to look at anywhere else by contact us we will come and do the job for you and after you are going to be smiling and be happy what else do you want?? apart from we keep our clients happy all the time we put smile on their faces??????

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Reviewed by Sam on 6/7/2024

Prince arrived on time, excellent work and clearly very experienced. Nice friendly and cheerful guy. Would certainly recommend him.

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