The Difference Between Plastering and Skimming: A Comprehensive Guide

Unibonding, ready for skimming


Plastering and skimming are two popular techniques used to achieve smooth and flawless surfaces for walls and ceilings. Whether you’re renovating your home or working on a new construction project, understanding the difference between plastering and skimming is crucial to ensure the best results. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the nuances of plastering and skimming, their benefits, and when to use each technique. So, let’s dive in!

What is Plastering?

Plastering is a broad term that encompasses various techniques used to create a smooth and durable finish on walls and ceilings. It involves the application of plaster, a mixture of materials such as cement, lime, or gypsum, to create a solid and even surface. Plastering is a skilled trade that requires expertise and experience to achieve the desired results.

Types of Plaster

There are several types of plaster commonly used in the plastering process:

  1. Cement Plaster: Also known as render. This type of plaster is made by mixing water, sand, and cement. It is commonly used for exterior surfaces or areas that require extra strength, such as basements, garages or external walls.
  2. Lime Plaster: Lime plaster is created by mixing water and lime. It offers excellent breathability and is often used in older buildings or for restoration projects.
  3. Gypsum Plaster: Gypsum plasters such as Multi-finish, are made by mixing calcium sulphate and water. It is widely used for interior surfaces and provides a smooth and uniform finish.

Understanding Skimming

Skimming is a specific technique used within the plastering process. It involves the application of a thin layer of finishing plaster to create a smooth and polished surface. Skimming is often used to improve the appearance of existing plastered walls or ceilings or to provide a flawless base for painting or wallpapering.

The Difference Between Plastering and Skimming

Plastering and skimming are closely related, with skimming being a subset of the overall plastering process. While plastering encompasses various techniques, skimming refers specifically to the application of a thin finishing layer. Think of plastering as the broader term and skimming as a specific technique within that term.

The terms “plastering” and “skimming” are sometimes used interchangeably, but it’s important to understand the distinction. When someone says their walls need plastering, they might actually mean they need skimming. Skimming is often used to achieve a smooth finish without the need for extensive plastering work.

Benefits of Plastering and Skimming

Both plastering and skimming offer numerous benefits for your walls and ceilings. Here are some advantages of each technique:

Benefits of Plastering:

  1. Durability: Plastering provides a strong and long-lasting surface that can withstand wear and tear.
  2. Versatility: Plastering allows for various decorative finishes, such as textured or smooth surfaces, depending on your preferences.
  3. Soundproofing: Plastering can improve sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between rooms.
  4. Moisture Resistance: Depending on the type of plaster used, plastering can provide resistance to moisture, making it suitable for areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Benefits of Skimming:

  1. Smooth Finish: Skimming creates a flawless and polished surface, ideal for painting or wallpapering.
  2. Time Efficiency: Skimming requires less time compared to traditional plastering methods, making it a quicker option for achieving a smooth surface.
  3. Cost-Effective: Skimming is generally less expensive than full plastering, making it a cost-effective choice for improving the appearance of your walls or ceilings.
  4. Versatility: Skimming can be applied to both new plasterboard surfaces and existing plastered walls, providing flexibility in renovation projects.

When to Choose Plastering or Skimming: Factors to Consider

Choosing between plastering and skimming depends on various factors. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Condition of the Surface:

If the existing plaster is in good condition, with minimal cracks or imperfections, skimming may be sufficient to achieve the desired smooth finish. However, if the surface is damaged or requires leveling, traditional plastering techniques may be necessary before skimming.

Renovation or New Construction:

If you’re working on a new construction project, plastering may be the preferred choice, as it provides a solid and durable base. Skimming, on the other hand, is often used for renovation projects, where the goal is to improve the appearance of existing surfaces.

Artex

If you are looking to remove existing artex on ceilings and walls, if the pattern isn’t too deep then sometimes skimming is appropriate. Depending on the paint used on the surface of the artex, unibond or blue-grit can be used, followed by multiple layers of finish.

Time Constraints:

If time is a crucial factor, skimming is generally faster than traditional plastering methods. Skimming requires only one thin coat (consisting of two compressed layers), while plastering involves multiple coats and drying time between each layer.

Budgetary Considerations:

Skimming is often more cost-effective than full plastering, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget. However, it’s important to consult with a professional plasterer such as Rochester Plastering to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Hiring Professional Plasterers: The Key to Success

Whether you choose plastering or skimming, hiring a professional plasterer is essential to ensure a high-quality and flawless finish. Professional plasterers have the expertise, experience, and tools necessary to achieve the best results. They can assess the condition of your walls or ceilings, recommend the appropriate technique, and provide guidance throughout the process.

If you’re located in the Rochester, Medway or Maidstone area, consider hiring Rochester Plastering, a trusted and reputable company specialising in plastering and skimming services. With their extensive knowledge and commitment to excellence, they can transform your space and provide you with the smooth and beautiful finish you desire.

Conclusion

Plastering and skimming are essential techniques for achieving smooth and flawless surfaces on your walls and ceilings. Understanding the difference between the two allows you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and requirements. Whether you choose plastering for a new construction project or skimming to improve the appearance of existing surfaces, hiring a professional plasterer is crucial for achieving the best results. So, consult with an experienced plasterer, like Rochester Plastering, and transform your space with a beautifully finished surface that will stand the test of time.

Perfect Plastering is all about the finer details

plaster angles

So People are always asking “what makes Rochester Plastering different?” or “why should I choose Rochester Plastering?”, well apart from being an eco-friendly business, and the fact we are always nearby to help out because we only ever work in the Rochester area, we believe it is so important to work on the finer details.

Sure there is no better sensation that running your hand down a freshly plastered wall, the smoothness, the flatness, it’s clearly irresistible as when i return to a job the next day I can always clearly see the customers fingerprints in the reflection on the wall. But what really makes a plastering job stand out the extra mile is the detail work, what I mean by this is the corners, the externals, internals, making sure they all marry up at the edges, that they are all plumb and level, now that’s what makes a job stand out from the crowd.

Many a time I have wandered around shops, hotels, bars and this is something that bugs me, even to the point where sometimes I will have to change my seating position so that the offending plastered wall or ceiling is not in my eye’s view. That’s why I think it is important to give as much attention to the finer details as it is to the mass areas.

 

Helping hands

Having your house plastered can do insane things to animals, in particular cats just can’t get their head around the change that is going on around them in their home. This little dude was super excited to see what was being done in his house when the bedroom ceiling was being skimmed.

pet friendly plasterers medway
pet friendly plasterers

Having pets around is never a problem with Rochester Plastering, we’re very pet friendly (that is until they help themselves to our sandwiches).

Rochester plastering first blog

rochester plastering local plasterers

Rochester Plastering are excited to upload their first ever blog. “A Plastering company blogging, really?”

Well yes, absolutely and why ever not? If you’re buying a new outfit and want to know what’s on trend, you would probably read advice from a fashion blogger.  Equally as important we feel that it’s of great value that we share our current projects by blogging.

So why choose Rochester Plastering rather than another local plasterer? Well first of all local is a good thing right? We want to make sure we are always on hand so we specialise just in the Medway Towns, we want people to have piece of mind that we are a phone call or visit away. There is nothing more frustrating then having to wait days or even weeks for someone to come round and consult with you.  We will always endeavour to get out to you within 24hrs of your first initial contact.  

But most of all it’s down to the pride we take in our work, I mean, a lot of people use that term “passion” and “love of the game” but it is too readily used these days, and far too loosely. I mean when I say I love Plastering, I love it as much as the first day I went to work! And being a family run business of over 20 years our experience is vast and one of our friendly yet professional team will always set your mind at ease by giving you the correct and up to date information regarding your project.

We pride ourselves on adding that personal touch to any job regardless of size and are proud members of checkatrade and Kent trading standards. Although we have been around for quite some time and are very well established our team are constantly attending training courses to ensure the quality of work is to the highest standard and we’re always adopting modern techniques.

We aren’t saying that good workmanship is hard to come by, but we are saying is that by choosing to work alongside Rochester Plastering we are confident you will be very pleased and want to tell all of your friends and family about our service.