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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?

We are a family run business, and although new to the Rated People website for 2024, we have gained over 25yrs of knowledge and experience in dealing with damp and mould in properties. Understanding the issues these cause, we know how to fix them while keeping within a reasonable budget. There are numerous ways these issues arise and we take our time to survey your property to find the cause, advise you on the cure, and help you to have a dry, healthy home. Contact us today to find how we can help you. We cover all of Merseyside and surrounding areas, and can survey your property for you, within a few days to a week. We are certified installers of the damp and remedial products we use and have completed the Pam Ties and Safeguard Damp proofing course, to give you the peace of mind that all our work is undertaken correctly and to the required accordance with British Standards using fluid, approved by the BBA and we adhere to the code of practice laid down by the British Standards Institute. We can undertake any instruction, from an independent damp, timber and mould survey which will be approved by your mortgage lender, right through to a full damp course, wall tie replacement, brickwork pointing, Mould sanitisation, timber replacement, basement tanking and also wall insulation. We have also experience in full property refurbishments and project management of large conversion projects and have numerous trusted tradesmen who have worked for us for decades. Should you require any other jobs doing, please just ask. Check out our excellent 5 star Google reviews to see that we care about our customers and make sure we turn up when we say, do what we quote, and leave your property in a clean tidy state. Call us today to fix your damp and mould problems!

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Reviewed by Ben on 13/5/2024

4 months?Done the job feb, rang you march, you gave advice and we put 2 fans on the wall for a month and rang you back to say wall didn’t dry. I’ll post all the photos up of the job including the rusted beads and beads put over the top by your lazy plasterer and let’s remember I said cancel your plasterer when you didn’t do the job I thought you were doing and pay you just for what you done. The evidence is there for people to decide

I am a qualified plasterer and decorator with over 20 years experience in the trade dealing with all aspects of plastering and decorating. I work alongside other tradesmen when called in to assist and am a fair and competent tradesman.

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Reviewed by Lulu on 4/4/2025

Hi everyone Im Izyy over 10 years experience on construction. I take my job very proudly and I like to help everyone out with their project. I’m very tidy,clean , very responsive and very professional . Please feel free to give use a call for further assistance.

Whether you're in need of a renovation, facing an emergency leak, requiring asbestos removal, or seeking efficient waste management services, we've got all your needs covered. Look no further for comprehensive property solutions at competitive rates. As proud members of the Federation of Master Builders, our skilled and experienced team possesses the necessary expertise to tackle any project. With a robust track record of successfully completing a variety of jobs in both commercial and residential settings, our team is fully equipped to handle projects of any size and complexity. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering optimal results for you. Choose Nu Space for a seamless, reliable, and expert approach to meet your requirements.

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Reviewed by Sarah on 31/3/2025

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.

Fully qualified professional plasterer, been established for over 10 years carrying out all internal and external plastering. No job too big or small.

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Reviewed by JOHN on 19/2/2024

Very pleased with Kieran.Did an excellent job,polite ,complted on time and left the job cleaner than when he started.very competative with his pricing and overall, would recommend him to anybody who wants an excellent plastering job at a reasonable price.

ERA Construction Solutions Ltd WHO ARE WE? The story of our team, 16 years and going really strong: For a decade, Era Construction has been leading the way in all aspects of luxury design and build. Whether you're looking to expand or refine your home with a loft conversion, rear or side extension, basement excavation, cellar conversion or a top to bottom refurbishment. We also complete home renovations, roofing work and bespoke projects. Our ethos is quality-first craftsmanship for the very best in residential design and build in London. From small touch-ups to full property refurbishment - we make a neat job of it all. WHY OUR BUILDING COMPANY? When it comes to the quality and care that we put into every project, we think of ourselves as one of the leading building companies in London. This means that, as the right builder, we have the team, the expertise and the commitment to a high quality that sets us apart. 1. Fully insured with Public and Employers Liability, Professional Indemnity, Contractors All Risk and high-risk basement works. 2. We offer a 15-year guarantee on all of our structural building work. Proficiency only uses the highest quality building materials ensuring everything is built to standard and will last. 3. We have a large team of office-based staff, including a dedicated project manager providing you with peace of mind and security throughout your project.

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Reviewed by Shanti on 27/7/2024

The job is still going on not completed yet I will rate when the bathroom renovation is completed

IVE BEEN FITTING BATHROOMS TILING AND PLASTERING TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD FOR 0VER 20yrs,IM HONEST/FRIENDLY AND CRB POLICE CHECKED,I have over 60 5 star ratings for you to look through all with very satisfied customers .

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Reviewed by tracy on 12/3/2025

Martin and Jack have just completed our bathroom, they have both done an exceptional job. Highly recommended, very trustworthy very reasonably priced. clean tidy, both very respectful, I would million per cent use both again.....

Page Developments undertake all aspects of building work, renovations and property maintenance across Cheshire.

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Reviewed by Caroline on 14/11/2024

Jack contacted me promptly this morning but I had already arranged for someone to view the job. Thanks for prompt contact anyway.

Hi we are a two band company me and my son plus contractor when we need them we do all aspects of the building game as specified in are categories from bricklaying to decorating we aim to keep all are customers happy from start to finish thanks

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Reviewed by Mo on 10/4/2025

Very good job done by father and son team. Got quoted for a garden landscaping job and completely very swiftly, quicker than originally planned. They cleaned up after themselves which is good and left the area in a good state. Already spoken to them about another fencing job so look forward to potentially working with them again.

We have over 20 years of experience in ground work and landscape gardening and building services and our aim is to put our 20 year experience into your home so you can have a good experience using our service

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Reviewed by Carolyn on 10/3/2025

James and team did an excellent job in removing an old fence and ivy with very large roots. They were efficient, courteous and disposed of all rubbish. They cleared up after and left everything neat and tidy. James also gave helpful advice on a couple of other issues we had. I have no hesitation in recommending them for any garden services you need.

Welcome to Levelin Group – your trusted experts in bathroom and kitchen design, supply, and installation, with over 15 years of experience. We specialize in complete bathroom renovations, bespoke kitchen installations, and tailored 3D CAD designs to bring your vision to life. Our comprehensive services include bathroom fittings, custom kitchen cabinetry, plumbing, tiling, and flooring– all completed to the highest standards. Whether you’re planning a luxury bathroom transformation or a stylish, functional kitchen upgrade, we’re here to deliver precision, quality, and care. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote – let us transform your space into something extraordinary!

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Reviewed by MICHAEL on 16/11/2022

I did not hire this company. They came to assess the job and promised to send me an estimate by email. However, despite several messages to them from myself, they never had the courtesy to respond or send me a job estimate. I would have zero confidence in this company, and obviously their customer relations needs improvement. Consequently, I am still seeking a tradesman to do the job.

Hi We are experienced builders, residential and commercial building and maintenance services Have been in business for around 15 years We offer quality services at reasonable prices

Established in1993 - we are a professional family ran business specialising in all types of painting/decorating. We also have professional plasterers - kitchen fitters - tilers and carpenters within our family ran business.

About at AC kitchen &bathroom fitters LTD,our rich legacy of 20+ years of our commitment to excellence.based in ash vale Surrey GU12 5NG,we have honed our craft over the years delivering top- notch services that exceed expectations. Our services include: -Full- scale transportations : from complete house refurbishments to renovations and extensions,we redefine living space. Bathroom &kitchen expertise:we specialise in the installation of new and refurbished bathroom/kitchen/cloakroom/en suite shower/wet room. -Efficient plumbing solutions:our services encompass radiator and towel rail installations,shower pumps and extractor fan setup. -Quality fixtures:we supply high quality bathroom fittings en-suite,showers and wet room essentials. -Tailored kitchen design: team excels in designing,supplying and fitting bespoke kitchens . -Finishing touches:we cover all aspects of your project, tilling,aqua panels,plastering,decorating and carpentry (solid wood and laminate flooring) Why choose us? 1-References:our satisfied clients serve as our best reference 2-One-stop solution:we seamlessly coordinate multiple trades,simplifying the process for our clients. 3-Fully insured:rest easy knowing we are fully insured and our experienced team ensures a job well done. 4-Free estimates:we provide no-obligation,transparent estimates. 5-Personalised service: our friendly approach keeps you informed at every project stage.

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Reviewed by Violet on 14/9/2024

we are a construction company based in the north east with over 25 years experience in the construction industry. we have a fully trained time served team of employees who work to the highest of standards. Our speciality is extensions and house refurbishment and we also undertake insurance work i.e. fire, flood and impact damage, with customer satisfaction at the top of our list. we offer a full package, from the foundation excavation to final decoration, meaning we can efficiently complete jobs without waiting for outside tradesmen to turn up. Regards Colin, Mark and the team CAM construction Group ltd

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Reviewed by Katie on 29/11/2024

Colin from cam construction was extremely helpful with our quote for potential extension work to a home we were looking to purchase. He made himself available for a specific appointment at the property, gave us some great ideas for what would be possible then fully costed it up, and even accompanied it with a proposed planning drawing. The service we received was extremely professional. We haven't been able to go ahead with the purchase for unforeseen reasons, but would recommend cam thus far.

Our Service We offer free no obligation quotations. Our quotations are always detailed and fully inclusive. Our residential projects includes renovations, loft conversion and extensions. Working on occupied and fully operational homes are never a problem here at Baltic Star Design & Build. Your Build As experienced building contractors, we offer a complete end-to-end client experience from inception of the design of your project, to the build and any additional items such as bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. Why Us Our extensive project management and construction skills along with a multi-disciplinary team, enables us to provide turn-key solutions and beautiful design. Building your Future.

General Builder 19yrs in the trade Highly skilled - standard to high end jobs

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Reviewed by tom on 20/3/2025

Good job and good knowledge of the issues at hand. Competitive on price. Good communication during and after job.

We are a family run business with over 30 years experience in the rendering and plastering business. We specialise in domestic and commercial projects, using high quality materials and modern techniques to ensure a long lasting professional finish. Modern renders provide a smart, weatherproof and breathable finish to external walls. Installing External wall Insulation (EWI), prior to rendering can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Plastering services include full wet plaster or dry-lining installation to ensure a flawless finish. We work to the highest standards, leaving a clean and tidy site, and all work is fully guaranteed. We only use top quality approved products such as K-Rend, Fassa, Webber and Parex.

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Reviewed by Robert on 30/7/2024

They were very helpful and informative. Completed the job in a timely manner. We’re a very nice and considerate team, a pleasure to have working here. Thank you.

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Reviewed by Richard on 2/2/2025

I hired Jack for interior painting. Jack is diligent and knowledgeable and did an excellent job for me. He prepared the walls and paintwork thoroughly, gave advice on paint finishes, and used quality paints. He left the house clean and tidy. I would not hesitate to recommend him to any Rated People user.

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