Are Skimming and Plastering the Same?
By Plasterer Bradford – Your Local Experts in Wall & Ceiling Finishes
When it comes to giving your walls that smooth, flawless finish, terms like plastering and skimming often come up. But are they the same thing? Many homeowners and even some tradespeople use the terms interchangeably, but in truth, there’s a subtle yet important difference between the two. At Plasterer Bradford, we’re here to clear up the confusion and help you understand which service is right for your project.
Understanding Plastering
Plastering is a broad term that covers a variety of techniques used to coat walls and ceilings. In its simplest form, plastering involves applying a mixture—usually made of cement, gypsum, lime, or a combination—onto a surface to create a hard, durable finish.
There are two main types of plastering:
- Base Coat Plastering: This is the first layer applied over brick, blockwork, or other rough surfaces. It’s thicker and helps level the surface before any finishing coats are applied.
- Finish Coat Plastering: A thinner, smoother layer that is applied over the base coat, giving walls their final, decorative finish.
Plastering is usually done on new builds, extensions, or major renovations where walls are being created or fully rebuilt.
So, What Is Skimming?
Skimming, on the other hand, is a specific type of plastering. It refers to the process of applying a thin layer of finish plaster—usually around 2-3mm thick—over an existing wall or ceiling surface to create a smooth finish ready for painting or decorating.
Skimming is often used to:
- Cover up old or damaged plaster
- Smooth over artex or textured walls
- Refresh tired-looking surfaces without full re-plastering
In essence, all skimming is plastering, but not all plastering is skimming.
When Would You Use Skimming Instead of Full Plastering?
Here at Plasterer Bradford, we typically recommend skimming in the following scenarios:
- Your existing plaster is structurally sound but has superficial cracks or imperfections
- You want to update the look of your interior without a full rip-out
- You’ve recently had wallpaper removed, and the underlying surface needs smoothing
- You’re prepping a surface for painting or wallpapering and want a pristine, even finish
Skimming is less invasive and usually quicker than full plastering, making it a popular choice for refurbishments and cosmetic updates.
Benefits of Skimming
Skimming has become one of the most sought-after services we offer at Plasterer Bradford, and for good reason:
- Smooth Finish: Perfect for high-end decorating and a flawless paint job
- Cost-Effective: Often more affordable than complete replastering
- Time-Saving: Less prep work and drying time
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces waste by utilising the existing surface
Common Misconceptions
“Can’t I just paint over old plaster?”
Technically, yes—but if the surface is uneven, flaky, or cracked, the imperfections will show through. Skimming ensures you get that perfect canvas for your paint or wallpaper.
“Isn’t skimming just a shortcut?”
Not at all. It’s a professional plastering technique in its own right, requiring just as much skill and experience to get right. A poorly skimmed wall can look worse than a cracked one!
Why Choose Plasterer Bradford?
At Plasterer Bradford, we pride ourselves on delivering expert plastering and skimming services to homeowners and businesses across West Yorkshire. Whether you need a single room skimmed or an entire property plastered from scratch, our team of qualified professionals ensures high-quality workmanship with minimal mess.
Our services include:
- Skimming & re skimming
- Full internal plastering
- Dry lining & rendering
- Patch repairs
- Ceiling resurfacing
We use only the best materials and techniques, and we’re always happy to offer honest advice on whether skimming or full plastering is more suitable for your project.
Final Thoughts
So, are skimming and plastering the same? Not quite. While they’re closely related and both fall under the same trade, the key difference lies in the application and purpose. Skimming is ideal for refinishing and smoothing, while plastering covers a broader range of tasks, including creating new walls from scratch.
If you’re in Bradford and unsure about which service you need, Plasterer Bradford is just a phone call away. We offer free quotes, friendly service, and a commitment to quality that’s second to none.