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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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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?
INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION LTD
Plaster Skimming
WELCOME INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION - Building your future, one brick at a time. We have completed numerous projects, from small renovations to large commercial constructions. Our portfolio includes residential and commercial buildings, educational and healthcare facilities, and industrial constructions. Our mission at INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION Ltd is to provide our clients with exceptional construction services that exceed their expectations. We are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, on-time completion, and cost-effective solutions. What sets us apart is not just our ability to construct buildings but our commitment to building relationships. We believe in honesty, integrity, and transparency in all our dealings with our clients. We value teamwork, professionalism, and continuous learning and improvement. We prioritize transparent communication, ensuring that our clients are informed and involved at every step.
Small family run building company with over 40 years experience over 2 generations as a premium general building company. All types of building work carried out to the highest standard. A one stop shop for all your building needs right from the design and planning stage to completion. Joinery, roofing specialising in flat roofs Building and Plastering A wealth of experience in remodelling and renovations, extensions and sunrooms. Landscaping and paving. All areas covered. Fully insured, trained and certified tradesmen
The advertised job I have could not get much better because it has been first class.
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hi my names Chris. I am a very handy person with things that needs doing around the house. and I charge very fair prices. We cover most areas from roofing, gardening, plastering, some plumbing, painting, almost anything you need do we have you covered so get intouch for a free quote
18 years experience in all aspects of the plastering trade. High quality, Very reliable clean and affordable plasterer, dry liner and renderers also can do some basic carpentry skills like skirting and stud walls. Full public liability insurance cover
Mills Plastering responded quickly and came on time to give an estimate and the estimate was very reasonable. He came on the day as arranged to do the job which was carried out efficiently, cleanly and to a high standard.
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!!!
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.
ECO INSULATE LIMITED
Plaster Skimming
We are a leading construction company based in Birmingham, United Kingdom, specializing in eco-friendly insulation solutions. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, we offer a comprehensive range of services to meet all your insulation needs.
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.
From start to finish communication has been excellent. The team very polite, friendly and took time at the end of each day to tidy up. I am very pleased with the work they have done. Cannot fault them at all. No problem recommending them to anyone.
J R Griffiths roofing we specialise at 're roofing, slate tiles and leadwork. also chimney work undertook. Rubber roof and also grp
Reasonably priced, job completed the next day couldn't ask for anything more.
Sweet Plastering & Carpentry is a small local business who pride themselves on carrying out a high standard of workmanship with a reputation of great customer service. We carry out all aspects of building work internal and external by qualified tradesman.
Plastering was not completed, wall left with no skim on it. Plaster did not go up to the ceiling so gaps to be filled everywhere. The edges of the walls are still unfinished and rough. We was quoted one price then they said they couldn't finish the job at that price said they would come back to finish for another 400 pound but still have not seen where this money was spent. The first dsy they was here for maybe 4 hours the second vist was less then an hour the final day they arrived at 8.30 gone by lunch.
AP Services
Plaster Skimming
More than 10 years experience in inside work Specialties: - Plasterboard - Tiles - Removal Services - Cleaning Qualifications: - Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) - Blue Cscs - Harness award - First aid lv.3 - IPAF
S&D Construction Services is a premier general construction business with over of 23 years of Experience in the construction industry, we have established ourselves as a leader in delivering comprehensive construction services with a wide range of sectors including residential and commercial projects across London Our mission is to provide exceptional construction services and client-focused approach to every project we undertake
Fantastic job adding textured render around our newly fitted patio doors and on a blocked up old door. Was a particular finish we were looking for and the match was spot on. Highly recommended
I have public liability insurance . I am an expert at doing a flatpack. I utilize all my skills and knowledge gleaned from 20 years working in the public sector, to a long love of car maintenance, and installing washing machines and everything in between. I can lay laminate and wood flooring and install kitchens. I’m always happy to help, compassionate, and really like to get a job done right.
Daniel helped me hang a very large circular mirror. He was punctual, friendly, polite, tiday and efficient. Will definitely use his services again! Thanks Daniel!
Right Choice Builders
Plaster Skimming
Right Choice Builders: London’s Premier Extension, Renovation, Loft Conversion, Plumbing, and Electrical Experts At Right Choice Builders, we take pride in transforming your visions into reality with unparalleled craftsmanship and a keen eye for detail. Based in London, our dedicated team of professionals specializes in home extensions, renovations, loft conversions, and comprehensive plumbing and electrical services. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we offer bespoke solutions tailored to meet your unique needs. Our holistic approach ensures that every project, big or small, is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Choose Right Choice Builders for your next project and experience the difference of working with a company that values quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction above all else. Whether you’re expanding your living space, updating your interiors, or ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home’s essential systems
PB Roofing Services have been in the trade for over 10 years now. All customers will be treated with respect we will not leave the job until the customer is 100% satisfied. We guarantee the best service and price. No job too big no job too small. SERVICES WE OFFER -Roof repair -Full Reroof -Guttering & Gutter cleans -Facias & Soffits -Grinding & Repointing -Ridge tiles & Dry ridge -Dry verge -Chimney stacks & flaunching -Lead work Call us for a free quotation
Very professional inspection and diagnosis of roof status. This is the only builder that I will use to repair my roof going forwards on ay future work. I have a new flue to install soon. If you have roofing work, strongly recommend getting in touch and asking for a quote.
We are a small family run property maintenance company offering a personal service at competitive rates. Our clientèle range from private home owners to established letting/estate agents. Providing free, no obligation estimates and advice. So please call.
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.
30+years experience 1st class tradesmen advertised in all local papers for 20+years trying something different for advertising my motto is DO IT ONCE DO IT RIGHT
John came and viewed the job and gave me a quote on the day. They came on the agreed date to start the work. The job was done to a high standard. The guys were polite & friendly. They did a good job of tidying up afterwards. Would recommend.
I am a fully qualified Painter and Decorator with over 27 years of experience in the building trade, and I’m also very competent in other areas of the construction industry. I have a full Multi trade/Property Maintenance Building Company that covers all aspects of the building trade, from small jobs to full house renovations. With my team of very competent and experienced tradesmen We specialise in kitchen and bathroom fit outs, and also do renovations, loft conversions and garage conversions.
Happy with the work done, but it took much longer than expected as they arrived later than planned then cancelled a couple of days due to external issues. Like I said, the completed work is excellent.
KENDY PLUMBING AND HEATING LTD HERE TO SERVE. PLEASE DONT HESITATE THANKS DALE F.
Prompt response, friendly and did a good job. Would use again.
Carpentry, home repairs, painting and decorating - mostly interior work. But also repairing and repointing. Works alone but can get a team for bigger jobs. Big and small jobs. Serving mainly West and North West London. Over 10 years of experience.
Fast and efficient service.
Welcome to Property Renovation and Decorating Services: " PROFESSIONAL SERVICE " We are professionals builders with over 17 years experience on all building works: extension loft conversion refurbishment bathrooms kitchens painting and decorating plastering, wood flooring, carpet fitting, tiling. building works undertaken: General Building, New Builds, full Interior & Exterior, renovations and much more. Emy has been providing professional home renovation services for over 17 years. He is praised by the customers for his attention to detail, responsiveness, timeliness and quality work. Call (text) for a free consultation and estimate:
Outstanding all round service doing a job we have needed done for a while. We would highly recommend them for their efficiency and pressional approach. After they assessed the work we needed, they got on with it and stayed until it was finished. They left everything so tidy too. Really impressed.
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