Plastering & Rendering

What Does a Plasterer Do?

Plasterers apply plaster, render, and coatings to walls and ceilings to create smooth, durable surfaces ready for decoration. Common domestic jobs include skimming (applying a thin finish coat over existing plaster or plasterboard), re-plastering damaged or damp walls, boarding and skimming new stud walls, plastering after building work such as an extension or after chasing in new cables, and dry lining (dot and dab plasterboarding). External plasterers apply sand and cement render or modern through-colour render systems to the outside of properties.

Plastering is a skilled trade that requires practice to execute well — a poorly finished surface will be very obvious once painted. It is worth investing in a quality plasterer rather than accepting the cheapest quote.

Typical Costs in the UK

Plasterers typically charge £150–£250 per day for labour. Skimming a single room ceiling costs around £200–£400; a full room skim (walls and ceiling) in a standard bedroom typically runs to £400–£800. Re-plastering a whole house can cost anywhere from £4,000 to £10,000 depending on the number of rooms and the condition of existing surfaces. Dry lining a new extension or conversion room is usually priced per square metre, typically £20–£40 per m² including materials. External rendering for a semi-detached house can range from £3,000 to £8,000.

How to Choose the Right Plasterer

Ask to see examples of finished work before it has been painted — this gives the clearest picture of quality. A good plasterer will assess the substrate carefully before starting and may recommend hacking off old plaster if it has lost its key or is affected by damp. Ensure any damp issues are investigated and resolved before plastering, not masked over. Check for relevant qualifications such as a City & Guilds certificate in plastering, and look for positive reviews specifically mentioning finish quality. Agree a clear start and finish date, as plasterwork needs adequate drying time before decoration can begin.