Skimming Vs Plastering: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to renovating or freshening up your walls, the terms Skimming Vs Plastering often come up, but many homeowners are left scratching their heads, wondering what the real difference is. Both techniques promise a smooth finish, but they serve different purposes and require distinct methods. Having spent over 20 years on job sites across Melbourne, I can tell you firsthand that knowing when to use plastering versus skimming can make or break your project. Whether you’re repairing cracked walls, renovating an old home, or just prepping for a fresh coat of paint, understanding the right approach is crucial for achieving that flawless finish. Let’s dive into the world of plastering and skimming to help you choose the best option for your next project.

Differences Between Skimming and Plastering

At first glance, skimming and plastering might seem like two sides of the same coin. After all, both involve smoothing surfaces, but the reality is that they serve different purposes, use different materials, and require different techniques. As someone who’s worked in both areas, I can confidently tell you that choosing the right method is crucial for achieving the best results in your project.

Let’s break it down, comparing skimming and plastering in terms of key features like purpose, materials, thickness, and cost. You might be surprised at the differences – or you might realise that one is a better fit for your needs than the other.

Purpose: Structural Reinforcement vs. Cosmetic Finish

The primary difference between plastering and skimming is in their purpose.

• Plastering is a more structural application. When you’re plastering a wall, you’re not just making it look good; you’re giving it a strong base that can stand the test of time. It’s often used to cover rough surfaces like brick, blockwork, or masonry. If the surface is damaged or not smooth enough to paint, plastering is the way to go. It’s all about strength and durability, especially in areas where the wall might face moisture or heavy wear, like in kitchens or bathrooms.
• Skimming, on the other hand, is all about finishing. It’s more cosmetic. If your walls are structurally fine but they have a few imperfections, or you just want to prepare the surface for painting or wallpapering, skimming is your best bet. It’s designed to smooth out minor flaws without adding much thickness. I’ve used skimming for everything from refreshing old plaster to smoothing over drywall in homes across Melbourne.

Layer Thickness: Plastering is Thick, Skimming is Thin

This one’s pretty straightforward.

• Plastering involves applying thicker layers – generally anywhere between 6mm to 20mm depending on the condition of the surface. In my experience, you can usually expect to apply a base coat of around 10mm on an uneven or damaged surface. The thick plaster creates a solid foundation that will last for years.
• Skimming, on the other hand, is a much thinner coat. You’re looking at 2mm to 5mm of plaster to cover up imperfections and create a smooth surface. For instance, in older Melbourne homes that just need a little freshening up, I’ve skimming over walls that were already plastered. It’s ideal when you need to fix minor imperfections like hairline cracks or small dents. It’s fast and easy, especially for jobs that don’t need a structural overhaul.

Application Surface: Where You Use Them

Another significant difference comes in the surface you’ll be working with:

• Plastering is the go-to method when you’re dealing with new builds, rough masonry, or bare brick walls. These surfaces need extra layers to make them flat and ready for paint or wallpaper. In renovations, I often find plastering necessary when dealing with old, damaged surfaces that have deteriorated over time. For instance, I worked on a project in Richmond, Melbourne, where the walls had suffered years of neglect, and plastering was the only way to create a solid base for new interior finishes.
• Skimming is generally applied over existing surfaces. It can be used on old plaster, plasterboard, or painted surfaces that just need some freshening up. I’ve used skimming many times in Melbourne homes that were being renovated or refreshed. It’s great for covering hairline cracks or giving tired walls a brand new look without the need for the more extensive work plastering demands. I’ve also used skimming in commercial projects, especially when renovating office spaces where the focus was on creating a smooth surface for paint or wallpaper.

Materials Used: Plaster vs. Skim Coat

The materials used for both processes are different, and this directly affects how each is applied.

• Plastering generally involves a heavier mix of materials such as gypsum plaster, cement plaster, or lime plaster. These materials are designed to create a thick, robust layer that can be used on a variety of surfaces. For instance, when plastering a bathroom or kitchen, I’d likely use cement plaster, as it provides the moisture resistance required in those environments.
• Skimming, however, uses much lighter materials like finishing plaster or drywall joint compound (mud). These are smoother and easier to apply in thin layers. When I’m skimming, especially in homes with plasterboard, I use finishing plaster. It’s ideal for creating that flawless, smooth finish without overloading the wall with excess thickness. I also prefer ready-mixed products for small repairs, as they’re incredibly convenient and save me time.

Cost: Skimming is Cheaper

One thing’s for sure: skimming is far more affordable than plastering.

• Plastering requires more materials, more labor, and a longer drying time. This means it’s typically more expensive than skimming. For a medium-sized room in Melbourne, plastering can cost between $600 to $1,000 depending on the wall conditions, the type of plaster used, and whether any repairs are needed. It takes time – often 3 to 4 days – to apply multiple coats and allow for drying.
• Skimming, being a thinner coat, is cheaper. A small room might cost between $300 and $500 for skimming, as it requires less material and less time. Most rooms can be skimmed in 1 to 2 days, making it a more cost-effective and quick solution when you just need to smooth out imperfections and prepare for decoration.

Durability: Plastering Adds Strength, Skimming is Cosmetic

Here’s where the real difference lies in terms of long-term performance:

• Plastering strengthens the wall. It gives the surface more structure and durability. If your walls are facing high moisture levels (think kitchens or bathrooms), plastering is your best bet. The layers of plaster will bond strongly, providing the wall with a long-lasting finish. For instance, I worked on a kitchen remodel in South Melbourne, and plastering was necessary for its moisture-resistant properties.
• Skimming, while great for cosmetic touch-ups, does not add much structural strength. It’s ideal for smoothing out imperfections and creating a surface that’s perfect for paint or wallpaper, but it won’t provide much in terms of long-term durability or protection. It’s like the difference between putting a coat of polish on a car versus a complete respray – the latter gives you something more robust for the long haul.

When to Choose Skimming vs. Plastering

The choice between skimming and plastering ultimately comes down to the state of your walls and the end result you’re after. Here’s a handy breakdown to help you decide when to choose one over the other:

When to Choose Plastering

• If you’ve got a new build or a damaged wall that needs a solid base.
• If the surface is made of masonry or brick and you need to reinforce the structure.
• When you’re looking for long-lasting durability and moisture resistance, especially in high-humidity areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

When to Choose Skimming

• If your walls are already plastered and you just need to fix small imperfections.
• When you’re preparing your walls for paint or wallpaper and want a smooth, flawless finish.
• If you’re working with drywall and need a quick, cost-effective solution.

Cost Comparison: Skimming vs Plastering

When it comes to deciding between skimming and plastering, one of the most important considerations is the cost. Both methods have their advantages, but the costs can vary significantly depending on the size of your job, the materials used, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional.

The Costs of Each Process

As a plasterer, I can tell you that skimming is typically a more affordable option than plastering, simply because it involves less material and less labor. Skimming is a thin coat and can usually be done in a day or two, depending on the size of the room. Plastering, on the other hand, involves a much thicker application and can take several days to complete, especially if you’re applying multiple coats.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical costs for both methods in Melbourne:

As you can see, skimming is the cheaper option, especially for small or medium-sized rooms. If you’re looking to save some money and don’t need to rebuild the wall, skimming is your best bet.

Factors Affecting Plastering/Skimming Costs

The overall cost can depend on several factors:

• Room Size: The bigger the room, the more plaster you’ll need, and the longer the job will take.
• Condition of Walls: If you’ve got damaged walls that need extensive repair, plastering will cost more as it requires more materials and labor.
• Material Choice: If you’re opting for specialty plasters like lime plaster or cement plaster, expect to pay more. These are more expensive than standard gypsum plaster.
• Labor Costs: If you’re hiring a professional, labor costs will vary based on your location. For example, rates in inner-city Melbourne are typically higher than in regional areas.

How to Save on Plastering or Skimming Costs

There are a few ways you can reduce the cost of both plastering and skimming:

1. Prep the Surface Yourself: Removing old wallpaper or patching up small holes before the plasterer arrives can save you time and money.
2. Book Larger Jobs: If you’ve got multiple rooms that need work, it may be cheaper to get everything done at once, rather than having a plasterer come out multiple times.
3. Opt for Skimming Over Plastering: As I mentioned earlier, skimming is far more cost-effective if you don’t need structural work.