Key Takeaways
- Skimming a room costs roughly £400 to £900 in London; a full replaster costs more where old plaster is removed first.
- Plastering a single wall typically costs £250 to £500; a ceiling £300 to £600.
- Skimming refreshes sound walls; full replastering is needed where plaster is blown, cracked or damp-damaged.
- Plastering follows first-fix and precedes decorating in the renovation sequence.
- London labour rates sit above the national average, so room size and access drive the price.
Smooth, sound plaster is the foundation of a good finish, and it is one of the most common tasks in any renovation. Here is what replastering costs in London in 2026 and when you need it.
How much does replastering cost in London?
Skimming a standard room in London typically costs £400 to £900, while a full replaster, where old plaster is removed first, costs more due to the extra labour and waste. London labour rates sit above the national average, so room size, ceiling height and access are the main cost drivers.
| Job | Typical London cost |
|---|---|
| Skim one wall | £250 to £500 |
| Skim a ceiling | £300 to £600 |
| Skim a full room | £400 to £900 |
| Full replaster a room | £800 to £1,800 |
Skimming vs full replastering
Skimming applies a thin finish coat over existing sound plaster or new plasterboard, giving a smooth surface ready to paint. Full replastering removes failed plaster back to the masonry and rebuilds it in coats, which is needed where the plaster is blown (hollow when tapped), badly cracked, or damaged by damp. We assess which your walls need rather than over-specifying.
Where it fits in a renovation
Plastering follows first-fix plumbing and electrics, once walls have been chased for cables and pipes, and precedes decorating. In period London homes, plaster is often disturbed during these works or already blown, so skimming or replastering is a standard step. Fresh plaster needs 4 to 6 days to dry before painting, which should be built into the programme.
Plastering and decorating are part of every renovation we deliver. For a free quote, contact us or call 07472 424 226.