How much does a plasterer cost? UK plastering prices for 2026

Last updated: 29 October 2026 · By Zidaan Izzah, founder of Arkadia Connect

Plastering is one of the most common jobs on older homes, and prices vary a lot depending on the size of the room, the state of the walls and where you live. Below are typical UK prices from published 2026 cost guides, so you know roughly what to expect before you get quotes.

Typical cost to skim a room

Re-skimming puts a thin new finishing coat over existing plaster. Typical UK prices including VAT:

• Small room (about 2m × 2m): around £440, usually £378 to £496
• Medium room (about 3m × 3m): around £480, usually £430 to £550
• Large room (about 6m × 5m): around £650, usually £536 to £690

Price per square metre

Skim plastering averages around £24 per m². Decorative finishes cost much more: textured finishes are around £100 per m², and polished plaster often starts from £120 per m².

Plasterer day rates

A typical plasterer charges around £300 a day. Day rates are often higher in London and the South East, and for complex work.

How long does it take?

• Small room: about 1 day
• Medium room: 1 to 2 days
• Large room: 2 to 3 days

Before you decorate, a skim coat typically needs 3 to 7 days to dry. Walls plastered from scratch can take up to 4 weeks.

What affects the price

• The condition of the walls: blown or cracked plaster may need hacking off and replastering, not just a skim.
• Ceilings: high or damaged ceilings take longer.
• Access and prep: furniture, coving, sockets and skirting all add time.
• Damp: if damp is the cause, it needs fixing first, or the new plaster will fail.
• Rubbish removal: check whether taking away old plaster is included.

Skim or full replaster?

A skim is fine when the existing plaster is sound but the surface is rough, cracked or patched. If plaster sounds hollow when you tap it, or is crumbling, it usually needs to come off and be replastered, which costs more. A good plasterer will tell you which you need after seeing the walls.

How to get a fair quote

1. Measure the room, or at least note how many walls and ceilings need doing.
2. Take photos of the walls, including close-ups of any cracks or damp.
3. Get three written quotes that say exactly what's included.
4. Ask how long the plaster needs to dry before you paint.

You can post your plastering job free on Arkadia Connect, add your photos and let local plasterers get in touch.