Plastering Costs in 2026: How Much Does a Plasterer Cost?
Whether you need a room skimmed, walls replastered after renovation work, or external rendering, understanding plastering costs helps you budget effectively.
Plastering Costs Breakdown
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Skim a small room (12m2) | £200–£400 |
| Skim a medium room (20m2) | £350–£600 |
| Full replaster a room | £500–£900 |
| Plaster a ceiling | £150–£400 |
| External rendering (whole house) | £3,000–£8,000 |
| Artex removal & skim | £300–£700 |
| Patch repair | £80–£200 |
Day rates for plasterers typically range from £180–£300/day depending on location and experience.
Plaster vs Plasterboard
Wet plastering (traditional skim over existing walls) gives the smoothest finish and is best for older properties. Dot and dab plasterboard is quicker and cheaper, ideal for new builds and stud walls. Your plasterer will advise which method suits your walls.
Choosing a Plasterer
Plastering is one of the trades where the finish is permanent and the mistakes are visible forever — poor skim shows under raking light no matter how good the decorator is. Ask to see a finished wall in person rather than a photograph, check the plasterer carries public liability insurance, and agree in writing who is responsible for making good around sockets, skirting and door reveals.
In London, specialist firms often work faster and cleaner than a general builder covering plastering as a sideline. A dedicated contractor such as London Plastering Service covers skimming, rendering and dry lining across the capital, and specialists of that kind are usually booked several weeks ahead — worth lining up while the first-fix stage is still running rather than once the boards are up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does plastering take to dry?
Can I plaster over old plaster?
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