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Last updated: 22 November 2023
Cost of plastering a ceiling
Are the ceilings in your home looking worn and cracked? Sometimes, a fresh lick of paint only goes so far. Getting some fresh plaster up can help return your ceilings to their former glory. But what is the cost of plastering a ceiling?
Whether to remove Artex, to fix a leak or as part of a room renovation project, plastering your ceiling can enhance the look and feel of your home. In some cases, it’s critical in preventing damage to your property.
The cost to plaster a ceiling can vary depending on a number of factors. To get you started, we’ve pulled together average prices to plaster a ceiling in the UK with tips for keeping within budget.
How much does it cost to plaster a ceiling?
The cost to replaster a ceiling can range between £200 for a small room right up to £575+ for larger projects.
On average, we recommend budgeting around £360 for a medium-sized ceiling.
| Cost provided item | Unit | Cost +VAT - Range Low | Cost +VAT - Range High | Average UK Cost +VAT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plaster (skimming only) ceiling small (9m²) | Per project | £200 | £350 | £275 |
| Plaster (skimming only) ceiling medium (15m²) | Per project | £280 | £440 | £360 |
| Plaster (skimming only) ceiling large (25m²) | Per project | £425 | £725 | £575 |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||||
Thinking of doing it yourself? In many cases, DIY attempts can actually rack up more costs than hiring a plasterer when seemingly minor but critical mistakes are made. It takes a lot of experience to plaster well.
What’s more, getting that perfect finish demands the expertise and specialist equipment of a dedicated tradesperson.
Location will have a big impact on your cost
It’s worth keeping in mind that the cost to replaster a ceiling will also vary depending on your location.
While the costs provided are a UK average, quotes will naturally be higher in big cities where there is increased competition.
Another key factor affecting the cost is complexity. Should your ceiling have areas that are particularly difficult to access, specialist equipment will see a slight increase to the price-tag.
Cost of skimming a ceiling
Skimming or ‘top coat plastering’ is a technique that involves applying a thin coat of plaster to existing plaster to create a smooth, even surface primed for decorating. Ahead of skimming, the ceiling will need to be cleaned and prepared to ensure no debris gets trapped underneath.
Very often, DIYers approach the project without knowledge of just how quickly topcoat plaster can harden. Skimming your ceiling demands impeccable timing: both rushing and dawdling can make for poor results.
If you think the task sounds easy enough, it isn't. Achieving a perfectly smooth surface requires the skill of a trained professional.
To save time, use our search bar below to find quality plasterers near you.
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How much does it cost to skim a ceiling?
The average cost to skim a ceiling can range anywhere between £200 - £575, depending on the size of the room.
Prices will depend on the size of the surface area and the complexity of the task.
If you’re replastering your ceiling to remove Artex, it’s worth getting clued up on the costs with our dedicated guide.
Cost to replace ceiling
As well as being unsightly, cracks in your ceiling can leave your property vulnerable to leaks and further damage. Replacing or boarding over your existing ceiling will be necessary if cracks or sags start to show.
On average, the cost to replace your entire ceiling can range between £700for a small ceiling to £1,000 for a larger room.
In older properties, you will need to consider health and safety issues such as asbestos and lead paint. Ahead of replacing the ceiling, contact your local council.
We recommend always taking advice from one of our checked members to guide you on the best option for your property.
Cost to replaster a ceiling
The average cost to overboard and plaster a ceiling in the UK is £1,000,although smaller box rooms will likely sit more around the £700 mark. Depending on the size of your ceiling and whether overboard is required, the task can take anything between 4-6 hours for a small to medium-sized room (including any prep and cleaning up).
What is the lath and plaster ceiling repair cost?
Depending on whether you are repairing plasterboard or lath and plaster ceiling the cost to fill hairline or settlement cracks will be between £24 per m². For accurate lath and plaster ceiling repair prices in your area, speak to local plasterers to get quotes with a breakdown of the costs.
Cost of plastering a ceiling checklist
Plastering a ceiling can improve the appearance of any room, with costs starting at£200 for a small ceiling
Skimming your ceiling is an effective way to remove lumps and prime for painting but requires skill and expertis
The costs of fixing mistakes from DIY can be greater than the costs to hire a plasterer
Additional tasks such as removing Artex will increase the costs - make sure you factor this into your budget when sourcing a quote
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
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