Find skimming services near me

Skimming is a plastering technique used to create a smooth, even finish on walls and ceilings. It can cover up old plaster, improve surfaces after repairs, or prepare your home for painting and decorating.

Whether you're renovating a single room or tackling a whole property, finding checked tradespeople offering skimming near you will make all the difference.

Here's how we can help to find skimming services covering your local area.

How to find skimming services near you

1. Search your postcode

Enter your postcode in the search box to see the checked tradespeople offering skimming services in your area.

2. Compare options

Read customer reviews, view business profiles, and browse photos of completed plastering projects.

3. Get in touch

Contact your chosen plasterer to discuss your skimming requirements, request quotes, and arrange a convenient date for the work.

Find skimming services near you with Checkatrade

Only tradespeople who pass our checks and commit to upholding the Checkatrade Standard appear in our listings. That means you can feel more confident when browsing and comparing options.

Enter your postcode in the search tool, hit the button, and browse the checked plasterers providing skimming services in your area.

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Find related services you might need

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Why might you need skimming services?

Skimming is a versatile plastering technique used in many different situations, including:

• Covering old, uneven, or cracked plaster

• Preparing walls or ceilings before painting or wallpapering

• Creating a fresh surface after electrical or plumbing work

• Restoring tired-looking rooms during renovations

• Blending repaired patches into existing plaster

Tip: Skimming not only improves the look of your walls but also makes decorating easier and longer-lasting.

What does skimming involve?

The process of skimming will depend on the condition of your walls or ceilings, but typically, you can expect it to include:

• Preparing the surface (cleaning, sealing, or applying bonding agents)

• Applying a thin coat of finishing plaster evenly across the surface

• Using specialist tools to achieve a smooth, flat finish

• The plaster must then be allowed to dry fully before decorating

Skimming is often done in one or two coats and requires a skilled plasterer to achieve a flawless finish.

How much does skimming cost?

The cost of skimming will depend on the size of the area, the amount of prep needed, ease of access, and where you live.

As a guide, here are some average skimming costs:

• Small room: Skimming a small room (approx. 2m x 2m) will cost £440 on average

• Medium room: The cost of skimming a medium room (approx. 3m x 3m) is typically around £480

• Large room: Skimming a large room (approx. 5m x 6m) costs on average £650

• Skimming cost per m² : The average cost to skim a wall is £24 per m² in the UK.

Aim to get a selection of quotes from plasterers covering your local area to help ensure you get a fair and competitive price for the job.

For a more detailed breakdown, read our skimming cost guide.

Need a job estimate to help with budgeting?

Try our AI powered job estimate calculator

Questions to ask before hiring a plasterer for skimming

• What preparation work will be needed before skimming?

• How long will the job take?

• Can you provide references or photos of past projects?

• Does your quote include all materials?

• How soon can the surfaces be decorated after skimming?

• Do you offer a guarantee on your work?

Why use Checkatrade to find skimming services near you?

• Checked - Every Checkatrade tradesperson must pass up to 12 checks and commit to upholding the Checkatrade Standard

• Reviewed - Over 6.2 million reviews have been published on Checkatrade

• Guaranteed - We guarantee Checkatrade tradespeople's work, up to £1,000 - T&Cs apply

Request a quote, search in the Checkatrade app, or enter your postcode below to find skimming services near you.

FAQs about skimming services

What's the difference between skimming and plastering?

Plastering is the broader process of applying plaster to walls and ceilings, while skimming is a finishing technique using a thin coat to create a smooth, even surface.

How long does skimming take to dry?

Depending on the thickness of the plaster and room conditions, it usually takes around 3–7 days before you can decorate.

Can skimming cover Artex ceilings?

Yes, skimming can cover Artex ceilings. However, loose debris or bumps will need to be scraped off the Artex beforehand, which can increase costs.

Is skimming messy?

There may be some dust and debris, but a checked plasterer should take steps to ensure your home and its belongings are protected and clean up afterwards.

Do all walls need skimming before painting?

Not always. If your walls are already smooth and in good condition, you may be able to decorate without skimming.