DonereelHow much does plastering cost in 2026?
Updated November 2026 · UK prices
Skimming an average room in the UK costs about £450 to £650 in 2026. Plasterers usually charge £150 to £300 a day, and most rooms take one to three days. A full replaster of a large room can be closer to £1,900.
| Item | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Plasterer day rate | £150 – £300 a day |
| Skim a medium room | around £480 |
| Skim a large room | around £650 |
| Skimming (per m²) | around £24 |
| Skim a ceiling (extra) | £180 – £500 |
| Full replaster of a large room | around £1,900 |
Ballpark figures including VAT where charged. Every job is different: get a written quote.
Skim or full replaster?
A skim is a thin finishing coat over walls that are basically sound. A full replaster strips back to the brick or board and builds up again; it costs more and takes longer, and is needed when plaster is blown, cracked through or damp.
What pushes the price up
- Ceilings, which are slower and harder work than walls.
- Removing old wallpaper, Artex or loose plaster first.
- Damp that has to be fixed before plastering.
- London and the South East, where rates are higher.
How to choose a plasterer
- Ask to see walls they have finished in raking light: a good skim looks flat with no ridges.
- Check whether materials, beads and making good are in the price.
- Allow drying time before painting, usually several days.
Find plasterers by watching their real work
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Questions
How much does it cost to skim a room in the UK?
Around £450 to £650 for most rooms in 2026; ceilings are usually extra.
What is a plasterer's day rate?
Usually £150 to £300 a day, higher in London and the South East.
How long does plastering a room take?
One to three days for most rooms, plus drying time before decorating.
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