Skimming or replastering?
How to distinguish a suitable skim background from more extensive repairs.
Read moreTHE PSL KNOWLEDGE HUB
Plastering guides, costs & project advice
Straightforward advice for London homeowners: understand your walls, compare options, plan a realistic budget and see how finishes look in real projects.
EDITOR'S STARTING POINTS
Three guides worth reading first
Start with the condition of your surfaces, then work out the finish and budget. Each guide goes into the detail without repeating an entire service page.
SURFACE DECISIONS
Skim, repair or replaster?
Find out what different types of damage and existing backgrounds can mean for the work needed.
Compare the options BUDGETINGWhat does plastering cost in London?
Understand the factors behind a quotation, from preparation to access.
Read the price guide ↗AFTERCAREWhen can new plaster be painted?
Learn why drying depends on conditions and how to assess readiness.
Read the decorating guide ↗WALLS & CEILINGS
Understand the problem
Guides to help you identify the next sensible step before choosing a finish.
Painting fresh plaster
Drying, ventilation and preparation before decorating.
Read morePlaster repairs in London
What affects crack, hole and damaged-plaster repairs.
Read moreCeiling plastering
Ceiling condition, cracks and finishing considerations.
Read morePRICES & PLANNING
Budget and compare quotations
Useful tools for planning scope, estimating costs and checking what is included.
London plastering price guide · Plasterer day rates in London
A broad budgeting guide with the variables that influence price.
Read moreSkimming costs
A focused look at skimming estimates and preparation.
Read morePlastering cost calculator
Explore an indicative estimate for internal plastering work.
Read morePlastering quote checklist
Questions to ask before accepting a quote.
Read moreMATERIALS & FINISHES
Choose the right approach
Understand where different plaster and render systems may be appropriate.
Silicone render explained
A practical guide to silicone render, not a claimed project case study.
Read moreRendering systems
Background preparation and interior or exterior render selection.
Read moreThistle MultiFinish
What this finishing plaster is and why the substrate matters.
Read moreTanking slurry and damp
Waterproofing context, limitations and moisture diagnosis.
Read moreREAL WORK
Projects around London
Explore project pages and photographs rather than relying only on generic advice.
Greenford skimming project
A West London room finished ready for drying and decoration.
Read moreBarons Court plastering
Wall preparation and skimming in a West London property.
Read moreHounslow skimming work
An interior wall finishing project in Hounslow.
Read moreBrowse the project gallery
See more completed work and finishes in one place.
Read moreEXPLORE THE WHOLE WEBSITE
Looking for something specific?
Browse more advice, services and locations without scrolling through a long list of links. Open a category to see its pages.
More practical guides13 pages
Plastering & rendering services12 pages
NEED A QUICK ANSWER?
Not sure which guide applies?
Our plastering FAQs cover common questions about preparation, drying, repairs, pricing and what to expect during a job.
Browse the FAQs ↗HOW TO USE THIS HUB
Advice is a starting point
Photos, surface condition, access and moisture history can change the recommendation. A guide cannot confirm what is underneath an existing finish.
Prepare for a quotation ↗READY TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT?
Tell us what you need plastered.
Share your postcode, photographs and a brief description of the work. We'll help you identify the next step.
Choose a guide for your next decision
Not sure where to start? Follow the path that matches what you are trying to work out.
“My walls are cracked or uneven”
First understand whether the issue is cosmetic, localised or a sign the existing plaster needs more substantial work.
Start with skim or replaster →“I need a realistic budget”
Review typical London cost ranges, then check measurements, access and preparation before comparing quotations.
Read the 2026 price guide →“The plastering is finished”
Check dryness and surface condition before priming or painting. Rushing this stage can affect the finish.
Read the painting guide →