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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?

Est since 1985,BDI PLASTERING prides itself on quality workmanship,reliability,and honest advice.Please click on my photos,showcasing previous works,and click onto my homeowner reviews for client testimonials.

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Reviewed by Dean on 4/10/2024

Welcome to UV Interiors! Your number-one construction company in North West London, and the surrounding areas. With over ten years’ worth of combined experience, our commercial contractors have become industry leaders in their field. For the past decade, we have been delivering high-quality construction services to the community. As a result, we have been building up a large pool of satisfied customers in the area. Some of our services include: Property Renovations Painting and Decorating Kitchen Renovations and more! So, if you are looking for a particular service, we may have a team waiting to help. Take a look at our services and get in touch with us using the details below. Our expert commercial contractors in North West London would love to hear from you!

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

instead of hiring and dealing with multiple people, let us handle the hassle out on your behalf! one deal, one man! My name is Behrooz, and I have 14 years' experience in building and carpentery works. We specialize in renovation and refurbishment of commercial and residential properties at the best quality and price with professional tools and masters. we are also have got a joinery factory in London, We manufacture any made to measure woodworking such as shop display and counters , kitchen units, wardrobes, TV stands, dining tables etc - you name it, we do it.

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Reviewed by Neil on 11/3/2025

Good price, friendly guys, flexible on dates when we needed to.move them at short notice, great job, very happy.

We are a family run business with over 15 years in the building trade. From joiners, plumbers, electricians, painting/decorators, landscapers and plasterers we have it all. We take great pride in our work and customer care is priority.

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Reviewed by Martha on 28/3/2025

Great service and very efficient, friendly and helpful - very happy with the work!

SKG CONSTRUCTION LTD is a family run company with over 10 years of experience in creating high quality loft conversion, Extensions, complete home renovations. We offer a full package from conception through to completion. Our services range from providing you with your architectural drawings, involving buildings regulations and obtaining the necessary planning permissions through to allocating you a construction team and issuing a full guarantee for the completed project. Our loft conversion, Extension architects offer cutting edge design solution and will work closely with you to maximise the space without compromising on quality. They will guide you through the whole process. Catalin will ensure smooth running of the project, being on hand every step of the way making sure projects is delivered on time and most importantly on budget. We’ve perfected the loft conversion, extensions over the years to keep it as simple as possible from start to finish, making sure your aware every step of the way. We offer a 10 years insurance backed guarantee on all major works carries out by SKG CONSTRUCTION LTD all work is fully insured comes with a 10 years workmanship warranty. we carry out all types of building works Loft, Extensions, home renovations, tiling, flooring, plumbing, painting, rendering, brickworks, plastering, carpentry, roofing, steel structural works

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Reviewed by Rob on 20/4/2024

I have money. I asked if you had a PayPal account so I could send you the deposit and you told me to “forget it” and to “find someone else”. You also gave me 1 week to get the work done before you left for 3-4 months. As I said, my feedback was accurate. You seemed nice and willing to help, but the minute I asked for a different more secure way to get you money you told me to forget it. PayPal is tracked, and secure.

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.

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Reviewed by Diane on 24/8/2024

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.

W?elcome to ARCHALIGN, your trusted partner for all construction and renovation needs. Our commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Whether starting by your home, business or any other space, we bring your vision to life. Explore to see the quality of our work and get inspired for your next project & Contact us today to discuss your construction and renovation needs and let us transform your space into a masterpiece

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Reviewed by Andrew on 29/4/2025

Great service from Ali. Came the day after I posted the job and completed it all to a high standard and no fuss. Would definitely use him again and would recommend his services.

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.

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Reviewed by Sarah on 17/4/2025

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.

Hi,my name is Wally my company is old oak building & landscaping we cover a very wide range of the building trade and work to a very high standard,and we always look to work with our clients to get the best finish we can for all thank u for looking

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Reviewed by stephanie on 18/12/2024

Wally and the boys were great, quick and easy and a great clean up job once they were done. Will definitely be getting more done by these guys

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. :-(

Small team of ALL TEADES with more than 20 years experience in decoration we provide following services Painting and decorating, wallpaper hanging, plastering, tilling, laminated floors, doors replacement, all trades undertaken small and big projects everything you need we can realise welcome to have a look on my profile ????

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Reviewed by Monica on 22/4/2025

We have worked with many contractors over the years. Finding Julian from the Colouring Team, was so fortunate for us! What a pleasure working with such a helpful, professional and hard working team. Julian absolutely went over and above, in assisting with the project of the refurb of our flat. We would recommend The Colouring Team without reservation. Thank you Julian and Team.

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

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Reviewed by James on 21/2/2025

I have been in the trade for 22 years. I worked for dulux before I set up on my own 10 years ago. I undertake all aspects of internal/external painting and decorating with a professional, friendly and reasonably priced service. I take pride in my work and aim to make my customers happy with the quality of my work. All my work comes with a guarantee. We also do internal wall skimming and plasterboard repairs, waste removal and house removals.

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Reviewed by Georgina on 10/3/2025

Pierre and Dee were absolutely wonderful- they painted and stained our stairs for us beautifully and exactly what we had hoped for. They were also very considerate while we were working from home! Will definitely be recommending to our friends and family :)

E SAINT GEORGE Ltd is a London & Essex based construction company. We specialise in all aspects of Home Improvements and strive to provide excellent work in order to achieve each individual clients vision. Our Customer Focused Service, ensures that we Communicate-Resolve-Produce superb tailor made projects. E SAINT GEORGE Ltd has an outstanding track record for delivering projects on Time and on Budget. All of our surveys are thoroughly analysed and concisely priced. Our pledge is to deliver all clients with Flat-Rate Costs for all of our contracted services. At E SAINT GEORGE Ltd, we value our highly-skilled team members as the core ingredient to completing every project successfully. HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES: - Kitchen Installations - Bathroom Renovations - Flooring (Laminate/Wood) - Tiling - Painting & Decorating - Structural Engineering & Design Services BUILDING WORK SERVICES: - Loft & Basement Conversions - Extensions (Single/Double) - Rendering / Plastering - Patio & Driveway Installations - Gardening & Landscaping - Gas Safe Services - Electrical Services (NICEIC) - Handy Man Services

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Reviewed by neil on 26/7/2024

Endrit and his team were wonderful to work with - friendly and professional and nothing was too much trouble for them, despite me changing aspects of the kitchen renovation and install during the process. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect and that I was happy with all aspects. My new kitchen looks amazing and I can't recommend Endrit and his team highly enough - I have already recommended E Saint George to friends and will be getting them back to install my bathroom.

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

Hello , I am Michael . Fully qualified time served plasterer of 10+ years, customer satisfaction a top priority. Work is always carried out to a high standard with a friendly service, many trade and domestic work references, competitive quotes provided

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Reviewed by Ian on 29/10/2024

Michael has done a superb job at our property to a very high standard plastering and coving a very reasonable price clean and tidy,punctual and did exactly as we asked

All work undertaken by highly trained experienced plasterer & soundproofing at competitive rates.

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Reviewed by Ruth on 3/4/2025

Quick to answer job advert and gave a good price, set a date for job to be done. Arrived on time and did a great job very happy with work done. Gave lots of advice for after care and painting once plastering was dry. My only complaint was that he put down dirty dust sheets to start with. He did a good job of cleaning up.

Contact us for a quote (Detailed estimates and surveys are chargeable ) NEW VR DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE https://www.rbbrefurbishmentsltd.co.uk Bathroom refurbishment Kitchen refurbishment Howdens kitchen supply and install service Decommission/ fit outs Removal of partition walls Wall panelling Media walls Design & planning Garage conversions Loft conversions Access to architect Access to structural engineer Steel rsj supply and install Full house refurbs Velux and windows supply and install

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Reviewed by andrew on 26/2/2025

Punctual in getting back to me to offer their services, as of yet I've not picked a company for my project but was impressed with their initial professionalism and conduct.

I'm experienced handyman skilled painter & decorator , plaster inside ,external render outside ,key render, tiling, kitchen/bathroom floors general builder works

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Reviewed by Matthew on 10/2/2025

Landi did a great job at short notice and for a reasonable price. I will certainly be using him again for future jobs.

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