How Much Does Plastering Cost in Surrey? A 2025 Price Guide
Plastering is an essential step for any home renovation or new build in Surrey, influencing both the appearance and durability of your walls and ceilings. Whether you need simple skimming or a full plastering job, understanding the costs involved can help you budget wisely and avoid costly surprises. This guide covers typical Surrey plastering prices, the difference between skimming and plastering, factors that influence costs, and advice on hiring experienced plasterers for the best results.
What Are Common Plastering Services and Their Costs in Surrey?
When considering plastering, it’s important to understand the types of services available and their price ranges to find the best option for your needs.
Skimming: This is a thin finishing coat applied over existing plaster or plasterboard to create a smooth, paint-ready surface. It is generally quicker and less expensive. In Surrey, skimming a medium-sized room usually costs between £480 and £700.
Full Plastering: This involves applying base and top coats on bare or damaged walls, offering a stronger, more durable finish but requiring more labour and materials. Expect prices from around £755 and upwards for a medium-sized room.
Dry Lining: The use of plasterboard to create new internal walls or cover existing surfaces, often combined with skimming for a perfect finish. Dry lining typically costs between £400 to £900 per room in Surrey.
Rendering: External wall plastering that protects and decorates the exterior. Prices vary widely based on materials and wall size, often starting around £1,800 and going up for larger properties.
Additional work like patch repairs, coving, or textured plastering can affect the overall price.
How Do Plastering Costs Break Down in Surrey?
Understanding how costs are calculated helps you make sense of quotes and ensure fair pricing.
Labour: Plasterers in Surrey typically charge between £250 to £350 per day, reflecting experience and demand in the area. Labour rates can vary based on the complexity of the job and location within Surrey.
Materials: Materials such as plaster, bonding agents, and plasterboard are usually included in the quote, but it’s best to confirm. Typical supply costs range from £6 to £12 per square metre depending on plaster type.
Preparation and Disposal: Removing old plaster or artex, waste disposal fees, and any required scaffolding can add to costs. These extras are common in renovation projects and should be factored into your budget.
Size and Complexity: Larger rooms, high or intricate ceilings, and uneven or damaged walls increase labour time and material use, all contributing to higher costs.
Getting multiple quotes helps assess whether a price is reasonable for your project specifics.
What’s the Difference Between Skimming and Plastering?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, skimming and plastering serve different purposes and vary in cost.
Skimming: A thin, final layer (2–5mm) applied to smooth existing surfaces. It’s less labour-intensive, cheaper, and ideal for minor imperfections or finishing plasterboard.
Plastering: A broader process involving thicker layers (up to 30mm) to build or repair walls. It requires more preparation, time, and skill, suitable for bare or damaged walls needing a solid foundation.
Skimming generally costs less because it uses less material and time, but it’s only suitable when the underlying surface is sound.
How Long Does Plastering Take in Surrey?
Completion times depend on job size, type, and plasterer experience.
Small rooms or single walls: Usually 1 day of actual plastering work, though prep may add more time.
Medium rooms: Often take 2 days, including initial coats and finishing.
Large rooms or full-house plastering: Can take several days, with drying times affecting the overall schedule.
Multiple plasterers or teams can speed up larger jobs. Skilled tradespeople will balance speed with quality to ensure lasting finishes.
Can You Plaster a Room Yourself?
Some homeowners consider DIY plastering or skimming to save money, but there are important factors to weigh.
Skill Required: Plastering is a skilled trade, poor application can lead to uneven surfaces, cracking, or damage that becomes costly to fix.
Tools and Time: Professional tools and materials plus significant preparation and clean-up are needed. It can take days for an amateur to match a pro’s finish.
Mess and Safety: Plastering is a messy, physically demanding task, with risks when working at height. Proper safety measures and preparation are essential.
If your walls only need minor repairs or small skims, DIY might be feasible, but for larger or visible jobs, hiring a professional Surrey plasterer is advisable.
Typical Problems and How to Avoid Them
Many Surrey homeowners share concerns about plastering:
Cost variability: Get multiple quotes and understand what each includes to avoid surprises.
Disposal fees and prep work: Clarify if prices cover removal of old plaster and waste.
Region-specific price inflation: Surrey rates can be higher due to demand, budget accordingly.
Finding trustworthy tradespeople: Verify qualifications and reviews to find reliable experts.
Open communication and detailed contracts help ensure expectations and costs align.
How to Find a Reliable Plasterer in Surrey
Check credentials: Look for NVQ qualifications, British Gypsum certifications, and insurance.
Read reviews: Verified customer feedback provides insights into quality and reliability.
Request detailed quotes: Ensure transparency on labour, materials, extras, and timelines.
Discuss project specifics: Share details on wall condition, size, and finish to get tailored advice and accurate pricing.
Need a Plasterer in Surrey?
For expert plastering services in Surrey backed by local knowledge and experience, contact Surrey’s trusted companies to discuss your project and receive a free estimate. Your smooth, flawless walls await.
If you need further assistance or personalised advice on plastering costs or finding a skilled Surrey plasterer, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surrey Dry-Lining.
