Plasterer
A plasterer applies plaster, render, and other finishes to walls and ceilings, creating smooth, even surfaces ready for decoration. Plastering is a skilled trade that significantly affects the final look and feel of any room.
What does a plasterer do?
Plasterers carry out a range of finishing work, including:
- Skimming over plasterboard (dot and dab or taped joints)
- Re-plastering old or damaged walls and ceilings
- Rendering exterior walls (sand and cement, monocouche, silicone)
- Plasterboarding (partition walls, ceilings, boxing in)
- Coving and cornice installation
- Venetian and polished plaster finishes
- Pebble dash and roughcast rendering
- Patch repairs and making good
What to look for when hiring a plasterer
When choosing a plasterer, consider:
- Quality of finish — Ask to see examples of previous work. Good plastering requires real skill and experience.
- Preparation standards — A good plasterer will properly prepare surfaces (PVA, bonding, beading) before skimming.
- Clean working — Plastering is messy work. Ask about dust sheets and cleanup.
- Realistic timelines — Plaster needs proper drying time before decoration. Your plasterer should advise on this.
- Public liability insurance — Covers accidental damage during the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does plastering cost?
Plastering costs depend on the area. Skimming a standard ceiling costs around £200 to £400. A full room (walls and ceiling) typically costs £400 to £800. Rendering an exterior wall ranges from £40 to £80 per square metre.
How long does plaster take to dry?
Fresh plaster typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to fully dry before painting, depending on ventilation, room temperature, and plaster thickness. It changes from dark pink to a uniform light colour when dry.