If you’re renovating a home, decorating a new extension, or freshening up tired walls, you’ll probably come across the terms “plastering” and “skimming.” While the two methods are closely related, they serve different purposes. Understanding the difference helps you make smarter, more cost-effective decisions for your project.

At LWM Plastering, we regularly speak with homeowners and landlords who aren’t sure which option suits their walls best. That choice depends on a few key factors: the current wall condition, your goals for the space, how long you’ve got, and what kind of finish you expect.

In this guide, we’ll explain what each method involves, what makes them different, and how to choose the right one for your home.

What Is Plastering?

Plastering is the process of building up a smooth surface from scratch. It involves applying multiple coats of plaster onto a rough or damaged wall to create a fresh, even surface. This is often required in new builds or when a surface is heavily cracked, uneven, or crumbling.

Plastering begins with a base coat, like bonding or hard wall plaster, and finishes with a topcoat such as multi-finish. The purpose is to create a flat, durable finish that can be painted, wallpapered or tiled.

There are different types of plastering, each suited to different surfaces:

• Bonding plaster – best for uneven or porous backgrounds like brick or blockwork
• Hardwall plaster – stronger than bonding, often used on masonry
• Multi-finish plaster – the final coat to achieve a smooth surface
• Cement plaster – often used for outdoor or damp-prone areas
• Gypsum plaster – common in modern homes for its quick drying and smooth finish

This process is more labour-intensive than skimming. It’s ideal when your surface needs more than just a cosmetic upgrade—it needs to be rebuilt or completely levelled out.

What Is Skimming?

Skimming is a finishing technique. Rather than building a surface from scratch, it applies a thin coat of finishing plaster—usually multi-finish—over an existing, solid base. The goal is to refresh the appearance and create a surface that’s ready for paint or wallpaper.

It’s commonly used in:

• Dry lining (new plasterboard installations)
• Covering existing plaster that is still in good structural condition
• Hiding minor imperfections, hairline cracks, or uneven textures

Skimming is faster, less invasive, and more affordable than full plastering—but it only works if the existing plaster or plasterboard is intact and stable. It’s also a popular choice among landlords and homeowners wanting a tidy, high-end finish before redecorating.

Key Differences: Plastering vs Skimming

While both techniques involve applying plaster, the methods and end results are different:

• Purpose: Plastering repairs or builds a new surface; skimming refines what’s already there.
• Thickness: Plastering includes backing coats, often totalling 10mm+; skimming uses a thin coat (around 2–5mm).
• Surface condition: Plastering is ideal for damaged or new walls; skimming works on sound, existing plaster.
• Time and labour: Plastering takes longer, often requiring multiple drying stages; skimming is quicker and cleaner.
• Cost: Skimming is usually cheaper because it needs fewer materials and less labour.

When You’ll Need Full Plastering

Choose full plastering when the wall or ceiling is:

• New – like in new builds or extensions where there is no existing plaster
• Damaged – with blown plaster, deep cracks, or damp spots
• Uneven – textured finishes, patchy filler jobs, or rough brickwork
• Old or unstable – particularly in older properties or where original plaster has started to crumble

Plastering provides a strong, long-lasting base. It may take a little more time and investment, but it’s often the only way to ensure the surface is safe, stable and future-proof.

When Skimming Is Enough

You’ll usually choose skimming when:

• You’ve recently had plasterboard installed and need a final finish (common in dry lining)
• The existing plaster is sound but needs a refresh
• You’re dealing with light imperfections, such as minor dents, hairline cracks, or filler patches
• You’re prepping for painting and want a smooth, even base

Skimming works beautifully for decorative upgrades and light refurbishments, and can make a huge visual difference in a short amount of time.

What Each Process Involves

Full Plastering:

• Remove or clean the existing surface
• Apply a base coat of bonding or hard wall plaster
• Let it partially dry and level it out
• Apply a finishing coat (like multi-finish plaster)
• Allow full drying (7–14 days)

This creates a strong, solid wall or ceiling that’s completely rebuilt from the base.

Skimming:

• Clean and seal the wall with PVA solution
• Apply one or two thin coats of finishing plaster
• Allow to dry fully (3–7 days, depending on room conditions)

Skimming is cleaner, faster, and generally less disruptive than full plastering.

Making the Right Choice

If your walls feel solid and just look a bit tired, skimming is probably all you need. But if they’re cracked, crumbly, or uneven to the touch, plastering will likely be the better long-term solution.

When we assess a job at LWM Plastering, we look at factors like wall age, damage, surface material, moisture levels and what the room will be used for. Based on that, we’ll recommend the right approach—whether that’s a quick skim or a full coat of plaster to create a strong new foundation.

When it comes to finishing walls and ceilings, both skimming and plastering have their place. Skimming is faster, neater, and perfect for tidying up a solid surface. Plastering is more intensive but gives your walls a fresh start when they really need it.

Need expert advice? Explore our Plastering Services and our Painting & Decorating Services for the perfect finishing touch, or call us today.