How Much Does Plastering Cost?
Written by James Walker · Last reviewed 15 August 2026
James Walker has 2 degrees in construction (BSc (Hons) Building Surveying · MSc Environmental Design of Buildings) and an extensive background in issue resolution, resolving over £4 billion of consumer issues.
The short answer
- Skimming a room typically costs £400–£900.
- Full re-plastering costs considerably more, different job, not a different price.
- Preparation and the condition of what is underneath drive most of the variation.
- Allow drying time before decorating.
- Prices last updated August 2026.
Cost by scope
| Scope | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Skim, single wall | £350–£700 |
| Skim, average room | £400–£900 |
| Full re-plaster, average room | £1,200–£2,500 |
| Making good after a 3-bed rewire | £1,500–£2,500 |
What pushes the price up
Skim versus full re-plaster. A thin finish coat over sound plaster is a fraction of the cost of stripping back and building up. Condition underneath. Blown plaster, damp damage and failing lath and plaster all mean removal first. Ceilings. Slower and harder than walls, and priced accordingly. Access and height. Stairwells and tall rooms need staging. Beads and detailing. Corners, reveals and arches take time. Property age. Lath and plaster is unpredictable, it can look sound and come away in sheets.
How to stage the payments
Materials are cheap relative to labour, so no kick-off is needed. Inspect in raking light before final payment, hold a lamp flat against the wall and look along the surface.
How it works
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