How much does a plasterer cost? A complete guide

• Single wall plastering costs between £125 and £240+ 

• Small room plastering costs between £400 and £700+ 

• Large room plastering can cost up to £1,500 

• Day rates for plasterers range from £100 to £200+ 

Whether you're renovating a single wall or tackling a full home plastering project, understanding plastering costs is essential. 

Prices for plastering in the UK vary depending on the size of the job, the finish required, and the expertise of the plasterer. 

On average, plastering a small room costs around £550, while larger projects, such as a medium room, can cost up to £1,100. 

Day rates for plasterers typically range between £100 and £200+ per day. 

In this guide, we break down plastering costs, explain factors that influence pricing, and share money-saving tips to help you budget for your project. 

Data for this guide was collected in January 2025 from online industry sources.  

Here, we’ll run through the plastering costs you can expect to pay for different services and project sizes. 

Plastering costs by dimensions 

In the table below, you’ll find costs for different areas you’ll want to have plastered. 

Costs accurate as of January 2025 

Single wall 

Plastering a single wall is a straightforward way to refresh a room or repair damage. 

Costs typically range from £125 to £240+, with an average of around £182.50 – perfect for a smaller job without breaking the bank. 

Small room 

Transforming a small room with fresh plaster can make a big difference to its overall feel. 

You can expect costs to fall between £400 and £700+, with an average of £550, depending on the specifics of the space. 

Medium room 

A medium-sized room plastering project offers a balance between effort and impact. 

Pricing usually ranges from £800 to £1,100+, with an average cost landing at £950, making it an excellent choice for mid-sized spaces. 

Large room 

Giving a large room a professional plaster finish can create a stunning canvas for decoration.  

Prices typically sit between £1,200 and £1,500+, with an average of £1,350. 

Per square metre 

If you're calculating by the square metre, plastering costs range from £6 to £10+, averaging around £8. 

This is a handy approach for bespoke projects or irregularly shaped spaces. 

Here, you’ll find typical plasterer day rates for professionals in the UK. 

Costs accurate as of January 2025 

Day rate

Choosing to hire a professional plasterer on a day rate is a flexible and efficient option for various tasks.  

Costs usually range from £100 to £200+, with an average of £150 per day, ensuring great value for a day's work. 

You may need to consider these additional costs when hiring a plasterer in the UK. 

Costs accurate as of January 2025 

Plaster patch repair 

Small plaster patch repairs can make a big difference, whether it’s fixing cracks, holes, or minor damage. 

Costs vary widely from £70 to £500+, with an average of £285, depending on the size and complexity of the job. 

Plaster over skim 

Choosing to skim over existing plaster is an excellent way to achieve a smooth, modern finish. 

Prices typically range from £150 to £800+, with an average of £475, depending on the size of the area and condition of the original surface. 

• Size of the job: larger areas, such as big rooms, will naturally cost more due to increased materials and labour 

• Plaster type: specialised plaster finishes like Venetian or polished plaster cost more 

• Location: prices vary depending on where you live – London and the South East are typically more expensive than other regions in the UK 

• Condition of walls: damaged or uneven walls require more preparation, such as patch repairs, which adds to the cost 

• Labour costs: skilled plasterers often charge a premium for their expertise, particularly for ornate finishes 

You can try to DIY some of these jobs, but plastering can be a real challenge. For the best results, you may want to hire a professional. 

Still unsure about your plastering project? Read these frequently asked questions to learn more. 

What’s included in a professional plastering service? 

A professional plasterer typically offers a full-service package, which includes: 

• Surface preparation: cleaning and prepping the walls to ensure a smooth finish – this may involve removing old plaster or wallpaper 

• Plaster application: applying either a base layer or the decorative plaster itself 

• Finishing touches: this could range from a smooth, paint-ready surface to a polished or textured finish 

Some plasterers offer additional extras, like damp-proofing treatments or coving installation.  

Always ask what’s included in the quote, as these optional services might come at an added cost. 

Asking in advance also allows you to compare quotes from more than one service fairly. 

How long does it take to plaster a room? 

Timing depends on the room’s size and the condition of the walls. As a rule of thumb: 

• Small to medium-sized rooms: expect 1 to 2 days 

• Larger or more complex projects: these could take up to 5 days, especially if repairs or preparation work is required 

• Plastering a full house: budget a week or more for plastering multiple rooms. 

Do I need to remove furniture before plastering? 

Yes – clearing the space as much as possible is crucial. Plastering can get messy, and having an uncluttered room: 

• Gives your plasterer better access 

• Protects your belongings from dust and splatters 

If large furniture can’t be moved, cover it with heavy-duty protective sheets. Don’t skimp here, thin plastic covers might not hold up against splashes or dust. 

How can I reduce plastering costs? 

We all love saving money, so here are some practical tips: 

• Prepare the area yourself: remove old wallpaper, clean the walls, and clear the room 

• Hire local: choosing a nearby plasterer cuts down on travel costs 

• Compare quotes: always get at least three quotes to find the best value 

• Opt for simpler finishes: a basic skim is often more affordable than high-end polished or Venetian plaster 

You can also try your hand at some plastering activities yourself, if you’re feeling confident.  For example, some people attempt to plaster ceilings or walls themselves.  

How long does plaster take to dry? 

Plaster needs time to cure properly, which usually takes 5 to 7 days. However, this can vary depending on: 

• Thickness: thicker layers may need more drying time 

• Ventilation: a well-ventilated room speeds up the process, but avoid using heaters – they can dry the plaster too quickly and cause cracking 

You can learn more about this with our guide on how long plaster takes to dry. 

Remember: wait until the plaster is fully dry before painting. The colour will change from dark to pale as it dries. 

For more support and advice on decorating plaster, read our guide on how to paint new plaster. 

What does plaster patch repair involve? 

Small damaged areas, like cracks or holes, can be repaired through plaster patching. Costs range from £70 to £500+, depending on the damage.  For example: 

• Filling a small crack might cost around £70 to £100+ 

• Larger areas or extensive damage can climb to £500 or more 

If you’re interested in tackling this task yourself, read our guide on how to repair a hole in the wall. 

What’s the difference between skimming and plastering? 

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• Skimming: a thin, smooth layer applied over existing walls to refresh and even out the surface – great for cosmetic updates 

• Plastering: a thicker application often used on bare or newly built walls 

Skimming is generally quicker and cheaper but only works if the underlying surface is in decent condition. 

How much does it cost to plaster a 3-bed house? 

Plastering a standard 3-bedroom house typically costs between £3,000 and £5,000+. This covers: 

• Multiple rooms 

• Preparation work 

• Basic finishes 

If you want to save on these costs, opt for simpler finishes or handle prep work yourself. 

Is it cheaper to plaster over a skim? 

Yes! Plastering over a skim coat can save money.  

It’s a great option if the walls are in relatively good condition but need a refresh. 

How can I find a reliable plasterer near me? 

Finding a trustworthy plasterer doesn’t have to be a hassle. Here’s how: 

1. Check online reviews: look for professionals with consistently positive feedback 

2. Verify credentials: make sure they’re experienced, fully insured, and ideally part of a trade body 

3. Get a written quote: confirm it includes materials, VAT, and any extras 

Taking the time to research can save you money and headaches down the line. Always remember: the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. 

If you need extra support, read TrustMark’s top tips for hiring great tradespeople today. 

Plastering costs vary depending on the project size, type of plaster, and your location. 

On average, you can expect to pay around £150 per day for a professional plasterer or £8 per square metre for standard plastering.  

Larger projects, like a medium room, typically cost £950. 

By understanding these costs and following money-saving tips, you can budget effectively and find the right plasterer for your project. 

If you’re ready to start your plastering project, you can find the top plasterers near you on Yell.  

Simply browse local services, request quotes, and compare your options to get the best value for your budget. 

You can also post a free enquiry – providing a few quick details – and have plasterers send you quotes through your preferred contact method. 

Disclaimer 

Cost data was gathered from an analysis of wider industry data. Actual costs may vary depending on location or complexity of the task, project, or service. We encourage customers to reach out to industry professionals for specific quotes based on their unique requirements.