If your ceilings are looking a bit tired with cracks or bumps, or you have outdated Artex that you’d like to remove, it could be worth getting your ceilings replastered. In a technique called skimming, plasterers can give your ceiling a fresh look without needing to replace it completely. But how much does it cost?

We’ll go through all the costs of plastering a ceiling, including plastering over Artex, in this guide.

How much does it cost to plaster a ceiling?

The cost to plaster a ceiling in the UK varies depending on the size of the ceiling, the complexity of the job, and the plasterer’s rates. On average, you can expect to pay between £230 and £420 for plastering a standard-sized ceiling, including materials and labour, or £16-£30 per m2.

Cost to plaster a ceiling over Artex

Plastering over an Artex ceiling is a common way to achieve a smooth finish without the need to remove the textured coating. Generally, as long as the Artex doesn’t contain asbestos, the cost will be around the same as if you were having a smooth ceiling replastered. The plasterer will only need to spend a few minutes scraping off any loose bits of Artex or sanding any large bumps. So, expect the cost of plastering over an Artex ceiling to be around £320 for an average 14m² room.

What affects the cost of plastering a ceiling?

There are a few factors that can affect the cost of plastering a ceiling:

• Size and height of the ceiling: As you’d expect, since larger ceilings require more materials and labour, the cost will be higher. If you have very high ceilings, your plasterer may also charge you more as they will need certain equipment to keep them safe while working at height.
• Condition of the surface: Very damaged surfaces may require additional preparation and repair work.
• Complexity of the job: Ceilings with intricate shapes, ceiling roses or lots of corners may require more time and effort.
• Type of Plaster: Different types of plaster, such as lime plaster or specialist plasters, can affect the cost. Gypsum plaster is usually suitable for most ceilings.
• Your location: Labour costs can vary by region, with prices generally higher in London and the South East compared to other parts of the UK.

At HaMuch, we use our database of hourly and daily rates from plasterers across the UK to estimate the average cost of a variety of jobs around the home. Use our ceiling plastering cost table to find your nearest town or city and get a more accurate idea of how much it will cost in your area.

Why plaster a ceiling?

Plastering a ceiling is a crucial step in home renovation and construction. It provides a smooth, durable surface that improves the look of your ceiling and makes it easier to paint. Here are some key reasons why you might choose to plaster a ceiling:

• Smooth finish for painting & decorating: Plastering creates a flawless surface, making it easier to apply paint or wallpaper. A well-plastered ceiling enhances the overall appearance of a room.
• Covers imperfections & damage:
  Over time, ceilings can develop cracks, uneven textures, or damage from leaks. Plastering helps conceal these imperfections, restoring the ceiling to its original condition.
• Modernises outdated ceilings: If you have an old Artex or textured ceiling, plastering over it provides a contemporary, smooth look.
• Improves sound insulation: Plaster adds an extra layer of material to the ceiling, which may help reduce noise transmission between floors. This is particularly useful in flats or terraced houses.
• Enhances fire resistance: Some types of plaster provide added fire resistance, helping to slow the spread of flames in case of a fire. This is particularly important in multi-storey properties. If you want to improve fire safety in your property, you should consult a fire and security specialist.
• Increases property value:: A well-plastered ceiling contributes to a home’s overall quality, making it more appealing to potential buyers. Uneven or cracked ceilings can put buyers off or lead to lower offers, as they may worry that there is an underlying problem such as subsidence or a water leak.

Plastering vs skimming a ceiling

You might have noticed that in the cost table, we refer to the service as ‘skimming’ a ceiling. This is because that’s usually the service that customers are looking for when they want to plaster a ceiling. The terms plastering and skimming are related terms, but they have slightly different definitions.

Plastering involves applying a full coat of plaster to walls or ceilings, which may include plasterboarding, base coats and finishing coats. It is used for new constructions or where there is extensive damage to the existing surface. Plastering also refers to the general trade of plasterers.

Skimming is a technique used to apply a thin layer of plaster over an existing plaster surface to create a smooth finish. It’s often used to cover up Artex or minor imperfections in the existing plaster. Generally, skimming is quicker and less expensive than full plastering.

Do plasterers replace ceilings?

Yes, plasterers can replace ceilings if the existing one is damaged beyond repair. This process involves removing the old ceiling, installing new plasterboard, and then plastering over it. The cost of replacing a ceiling is higher than skimming, typically ranging from £500 to £1,000 for a 10m2 room.

Can you plaster over an old plaster ceiling?

Yes, you can plaster over an old plaster ceiling if it is in relatively good condition. The old surface needs to be prepared properly, which may involve cleaning, sanding down any large bumps and applying a bonding agent to ensure the new plaster adheres well. 

Skimming is often used in this situation as it provides a fresh, smooth finish and is quicker and cheaper than a full re-plaster.

How many coats of plaster does a ceiling need?

A ceiling typically requires two coats of plaster. The first coat helps to level and stabilise the surface, while the second coat creates a smooth, even finish ready for painting or decorating. 

In some cases, particularly when skimming, only a single coat may be necessary if the existing surface is already level and stable. However, this is bad practice and any professional plasterer should skim with two coats of plaster.

How long does it take a plasterer to plaster a ceiling?

How long it takes a plasterer to plaster a ceiling will depend on the size of the ceiling and the complexity of the job. But for a standard-sized room of around 14m2, it should take them up to a day. 

If you need another ceiling or room plastered, it’s a good idea to get the plasterer to do it all at once. They may charge you a full day rate for plastering one standard-sized room as it would be difficult for them to fit another job in after yours, so it can be more cost-effective to ask them to plaster more than one room or ceiling at the same time. 

How long after skimming a ceiling can it be painted?

After skimming a ceiling, it is important to allow the plaster to dry completely before painting. You should wait at least 3 days before painting after skimming, depending on the thickness of the plaster and how warm and humid it is in your house. For example, you should leave the plaster to dry for longer in the winter than in the summer. 

Once the plaster is fully dry, you can proceed with painting. You’ll know when it’s dry as it will change from a dark brown colour to a pale pink. 

You must apply a mist coat to the plaster before applying your chosen colour. You can make up a mist coat by thinning out white emulsion paint at a ratio of 3:1 (three parts paint, one part water).

Can I plaster a ceiling myself?

Plastering a ceiling is a challenging and labour-intensive task that requires skill and experience to achieve a professional finish. While it is possible to plaster a ceiling yourself, we’d always recommend that you hire a professional plasterer, especially for larger or more complex jobs. 

If you decide to attempt it yourself, be prepared to invest in the necessary tools and take the time to practice and perfect your technique. DIY plastering can save money, but the quality of the finish may not match a professional’s.

If you’re going to take time off to plaster your own ceiling, it’s worth considering your hourly rate and how much you value your annual leave. It might be more cost-effective to hire a professional plasterer who will get the job done more quickly and at a higher quality.

Ready to get quotes for a plasterer to plaster your ceilings? Post a job with HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with reliable tradespeople in your area.

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