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​Skimming

Here at Plastering Liverpool, we are very proud of our skimming skills. Many would argue skimming is the most difficult of all plastering skills, and we wouldn't disagree with them. Skimming takes real skill.

So what exactly is skimming, and do you need it ?

Skimming is the application of the top layer of plastering. But in this instance, we are talking about skim as a thin plaster layer, when its applied to an existing finish. 

In general, skimming is appropriate to apply when the existing top layer is tired and worn, perhaps with cracks and surface damage. But the underlying plaster is solid and in good condition. A skim coat is around 2mm thick, so will restore a perfect finish to a wall or ceiling, as long as the preparation is good. Its obviously cheaper than a full replastering. 

Its important to understand that skimming a wall or ceiling is never a sensible shortcut. The existing plaster-work MUST be properly assessed first. It needs to be sound, and able to take the top cut. Inexperienced plasterers will quickly decide to skim a wall, as it involves less work. They will then apply the skim with little or no preparation. The result may look good for a few months, but will then deteriorate, and will quickly need to be done again, with all the stress and expense that entails. 

Preparation is absolutely key to any skimming. The existing surface must be clean, dry and firm. If there are any significant imperfections, they need to be filled and sanded. Any crumbling plaster must be removed. The quality of this preparation will have a direct impact on the quality of the skim finish. PVA can be applied onto the wall, using a roller, prior to the skim. This helps the skim coat bond to the existing surface. 

Skim can be applied to a wall that has been painted, although the paint needs to be well adhered to the wall. If there is any flaking paint it must be sanded down. It CANNOT be applied over wallpaper, although we've seen it done. Very badly. 

A good skim coat will work wonders. Cracked and tired plaster will look completely new afterwards. But skimming isn't a miracle. And that's where people go wrong. We cannot emphasise enough the importance of the preparation. Without it, you may as well not bother. With skimming, its preparation, preparation, preparation. Get that right, and your're halfway there. 

Skimming is extremely hard to master. Make no mistake, its almost impossible for an amateur to get a good skimming result. No amount of YouTube videos will help. It takes many years for a plasterer to learn these skills, and there will be a great deal of frustration and tears before those skills are earned. Skimming walls and ceilings is tough. Leave it to the professionals. 

Plastering Liverpool's skimming is second to none. In fact, its the best skimming we've ever seen. Although we are biased. of course. Not sure whether you need re-plastering or skimming ? Give us a call. We have decades of experience and can you give you our opinion. All our quotes are free and no obligation. Our advice is free too

Lets sort that skimming out. And lets get it done right. No short cuts. No cutting corners. Just a good, solid and professional skim that'll last for years. 

Give us a call, and lets talk about your project.
​We can advise you, based on our collective decades of experience, and you'll know you are getting the very best advice.
​We are happy to give you a free and no obligation quote. 

Plastering Services in Liverpool
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0151 203 0882

Plastering Liverpool
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Our Happy Customers

Skimming

We were told our downstairs needed re-plastering​​. The quote was scary. Our neighbour recommended Plastering Liverpool. They only needed to re-plaster one room. They skimmed the rest, and did a great job. Saved us a load and the quality is superb

Jane H
​Liverpool

Happy with the Result

We are very happy with the result of employing the guys at plastering Liverpool. They were polite and friendly and even brought their own tea. They did a lovely job too

Stu Williams
Wavertree

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Ceilings

We had them in to do our ceilings. They had damp stains and cracks, and looked rough. The ceilings. Not the workers. We thought we'd need new ceilings but they checked, and thought skimming was appropriate. A year later, they still look superb. 

Olly ​Telford
​Garston

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