Plastering Cost Calculator
Work out what your plastering job will cost. Pick the type of work, enter your room details, and get a full breakdown including materials, labour, and drying time.
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How this calculator works
Our plastering calculator estimates the cost of your job based on the type of work (skim coat, full re-plaster, plasterboard and skim, ceiling, or patch repair), room dimensions, and your UK region. The tool calculates the total wall or ceiling area, deducting windows and doors, and applies the appropriate rate per square metre for your chosen job type.
Costs are split into materials (plaster, PVA, plasterboard if needed, beading) and labour, based on typical UK plasterer day rates. The calculator also estimates the drying time before you can paint, which varies by plaster thickness and the type of work done. Regional adjustments reflect the fact that plasterers in London and the South East typically charge 20-30% more than the national average.
Plastering costs can vary depending on the condition of the existing walls, the height of the ceilings, and access to the room. If the old plaster is blown or damp, stripping back to brick adds time and cost. These estimates are a solid guide for budgeting, but we recommend getting at least two quotes from local plasterers who can see the job in person.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to plaster a room in the UK?
A skim coat on a medium-sized room (4m x 4m) typically costs £450 to £700. A full re-plaster of the same room costs £750 to £1,300 because the old plaster has to be stripped back to brick first. Prices vary by region, with London around 25% more expensive than the national average.
How much do plasterers charge per day?
Most plasterers charge between £200 and £350 per day. In London and the South East, rates sit towards the top end of that range. A decent plasterer can typically skim around 25 square metres per day, which works out to roughly one medium room including time between coats.
How long does plastering take to dry before painting?
You need to wait 2 to 4 weeks for fresh plaster to dry fully before painting. The exact time depends on how thick the plaster is, ventilation, and the temperature. In winter or poorly ventilated rooms, it can take longer. If you paint too early, the moisture gets trapped and the paint peels off.
What is the difference between a skim coat and a full re-plaster?
A skim coat is a thin layer of finish plaster (2-3mm) applied over existing plaster that is still in decent condition. It costs £15 to £25 per m². A full re-plaster means stripping everything back to brick and building up from scratch with base coat and finish coat. It costs more at £25 to £45 per m² but gives a far better result if the walls are in bad shape.
Can I plaster over old plaster?
Yes, as long as the existing plaster is still firmly stuck to the wall and not crumbling. Tap the walls and listen for a hollow sound, which means the plaster has come away from the brick behind it. If more than about 20% of the wall sounds hollow, you are better off stripping the lot and starting fresh.