Quick Summary: Plasterer Day Rates 2026
- ✅ Average UK Day Rate: £150 – £250
- ✅ London & South East Rates: £250 – £350
- ✅ Cost per Square Metre (m²): £15 – £25 (Labour only)
- ✅ Materials Cost: Add £40 – £70 per day to the labor rate.
- ✅ Typical Small Room: £400 – £600 (Skimming only)
The Bottom Line: While day rates are common for repairs, most plasterers quote by the project size. For the best value, always request a “Supply and Fit” quote that includes all materials.
Average Plasterer Day Rates in the UK
In the UK, the cost of hiring a plasterer can range from £150 to £300 per day. Standard rates typically fall between £150 and £200 per day, while more experienced plasterers or those working in high-demand areas may charge up to £300 per day.
| Rate Type | Cost Per Day |
|---|---|
| Standard Rates | £150 – £200 |
| Higher-End Rates | £200 – £300 |
Plastering Cost per Square Metre vs. Day Rates
While many plasterers prefer a day rate for smaller or complex jobs, larger projects are often quoted per square metre ($m^2$). This allows you to estimate your budget more accurately based on the size of your walls and ceilings.
In 2026, standard internal plastering typically ranges from £15 to £30 per $m^2$, depending on the level of preparation required.
| Service Type | Cost per m2 (Inc. Labour) | Best For… |
| Skimming (Finish Coat) | £15 – £25 | Refreshing smooth walls or new plasterboard. |
| Full Replastering | £30 – £50 | Rough masonry or walls in poor condition. |
| Wet Plastering | £35 – £55 | Traditional solid masonry walls (longer drying time). |
| Specialist Finishes | £100 – £250+ | Venetian, Moroccan, or luxury polished plaster. |
Project Estimator: Room Size Guide
If you aren’t sure of your exact meterage, use these regional averages for a standard room (walls and ceiling):
- Small Room (e.g., Box Room): £400 – £700
- Medium Room (e.g., Double Bedroom): £800 – £1,100
- Large Room (e.g., Living Room): £1,200 – £1,600
Pro Tip: Plasterers often have a “minimum call-out charge” of around £150 – £200. Even if you only have a $2m^2$ patch to fix, you will likely be charged for a full or half-day rate rather than a square metre rate.
Factors Influencing Plasterer Day Rates
Several factors can influence how much you will pay for plastering services:
Location
- Urban vs Rural: Plasterer day rates in major cities like London tend to be higher compared to rural areas due to the increased cost of living and demand. In London, the average cost of hiring a plasterer can be higher, typically ranging from £200 to £300 per day. Other large cities like Manchester and Birmingham may have similar rates, though slightly lower.
- Regional Variations: Different regions within the UK may have varying rates based on local economic conditions and the availability of skilled professionals.
Experience and Qualifications
- Professional Training: Plasterers with professional training or certifications often charge higher rates due to their expertise and quality of work.
- Years of Experience: More experienced plasterers who have been in the business for several years and have built a solid reputation typically charge more.
Specialized Services: Skimming, Dry Lining, and Artex Removal
The most common request for a plasterer is skimming, applying a thin 3mm coat over existing walls or new plasterboard (dry lining) to create a smooth finish. However, more intensive labor like Artex removal or “overboarding” (fixing new boards over old textured ceilings) requires more materials and time, often pushing the project into a multi-day job.
Scope of the Job
- Size of the Project: Larger projects may have higher day rates due to the increased workload and time required.
- Complexity: Projects requiring intricate work or working in difficult-to-reach areas can also increase the cost.
Breakdown of Costs by Specific Plastering Jobs
The “day rate” is a great benchmark, but total costs depend heavily on the specific task. Skimming a smooth wall is significantly faster and cheaper than hacking off old plaster and starting from scratch.
Below is a breakdown of the most common plastering requests in the UK and their estimated total costs (including labour and materials):
| Specific Job Type | Estimated Total Cost | Time Required |
| Plastering a Single Ceiling | £200 – £350 | 4 – 6 Hours |
| Skimming a Small Room | £400 – £600 | 1 – 1.5 Days |
| Skimming a Large Room | £800 – £1,200 | 2 – 3 Days |
| Small Patching & Repairs | £70 – £150 | 1 – 3 Hours |
| Overboarding & Skimming | £500 – £800 | 1.5 – 2 Days |
| External Rendering (per $m^2$) | £40 – £75 | Varies by weather |
Our data is cross-referenced with 2026 benchmarks from industry leaders like Checkatrade and HaMuch to ensure accuracy.
Internal Plastering vs. External Rendering
It is important to distinguish between Internal Plastering (used to create smooth finishes on inside walls) and External Rendering (a sand and cement or monocouche mix applied to the outside of a house).
- Internal Plastering: Usually charged at a lower day rate because the materials are lighter and the environment is controlled.
- External Rendering: Often requires two people, scaffolding, and weather-specific materials, leading to higher day rates or project-based pricing.
Key Consideration: If your plasterer is skimming over Artex, the cost may increase. Artex applied before 1999 often contains asbestos; if this is the case, it requires specialist removal or “encapsulation” (plastering over it with specific bonding agents), which can add £100–£200 to the total job.
The “Hidden Costs”: Labour vs. Materials
When a plasterer quotes a day rate of £200, this almost always refers to labour only. To avoid surprises, you must factor in the cost of consumables and site preparation.
1. Material Costs (The Plasterer’s Shopping List)
On average, materials will add £40 to £70 per day to your project. Common materials include:
- Multi-finish Plaster: The most common top-coat (e.g., British Gypsum Thistle).
- Bonding or Browning: Undercoat plasters used for leveling deep holes or masonry.
- Beads (Angle & Scrim): Metal or plastic beads for sharp corners and tape to prevent cracks at joints.
- PVA or Blue Grit: Essential bonding agents to ensure the new plaster sticks to the old surface.
2. Site Preparation & Disposal
A plasterer’s job is much faster and therefore cheaper, if the room is “ready to go.”
- Wallpaper Removal: If the plasterer has to scrape off old wallpaper, expect to pay for an extra half-day of labour.
- Waste Removal: Plaster is heavy and cannot be put in standard household bins. If you are hacking off old “lath and plaster” walls, you may need a skip (approx. £200–£350).
- Furniture & Flooring Protection: While most pros bring “sticky plastic” or drop cloths, extensive masking of a furnished room takes time that will be billed at the standard day rate.
3. Access Equipment
If you have a high “vaulted” ceiling or a stairwell (the “fittings”), a standard ladder won’t cut it.
- Scaffolding/Towers: For external rendering or high internal ceilings, the hire of a scaffolding tower can add £150+ to the project cost.
Expert Advice: Always ask your plasterer if their quote is “Supply and Fit” or “Labour Only.” Getting a “Supply and Fit” quote is usually better, as tradespeople often get professional discounts at builders’ merchants that aren’t available to the public.
Self-Employed Plasterer Salary in the UK
Self-employed plasterers in the UK can earn a substantial income depending on their workload and expertise. On average, self-employed plasterers can make between £25,000 and £40,000 per year. Those with extensive experience, a strong client base, and the ability to handle larger projects can earn even more.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Plasterer
Investing in professional plastering services offers numerous benefits:
- Quality of Work: Professional plasterers provide high-quality finishes, ensuring that the surfaces are smooth and ready for painting or other finishes.
- Efficiency: Experienced plasterers can complete jobs more quickly and efficiently, saving you time and potential costs associated with extended project durations.
- Expertise: Professionals are knowledgeable about different plastering techniques and materials, allowing them to handle a variety of projects with precision.
- Safety: Hiring a professional ensures that the work is done safely, adhering to all necessary regulations and standards.
Tips for Finding the Right Plasterer
Choosing the right plasterer for your project is crucial for ensuring quality results. Here are some tips to help you find the best professional for your needs:
- Research and Reviews: Look for plasterers with positive reviews and testimonials. Online platforms and local directories can provide insights into the quality of their work and customer satisfaction.
- Meet and Greet: Arrange a meeting to discuss your project in detail. This allows you to assess the plasterer’s experience, professionalism, and suitability for the job.
- Check Credentials: Verify the plasterer’s qualifications, experience, and insurance. Ensure they have the necessary certifications and a proven track record of successful projects.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several plasterers to compare rates and services. This helps you find a professional who offers the best value for your budget.
- Request a Portfolio: Ask for examples of previous work to gauge the plasterer’s skill level and the quality of their finishes.
Cost Comparison: Plasterer Day Rates in London vs. Other Areas
When considering plastering services, it’s essential to compare the costs in different areas. Here’s a comparison of day rates in London versus other regions in the UK:
| Location | Average Cost Per Day |
|---|---|
| London | £200 – £300 |
| Other Large Cities | £150 – £250 |
| Rural Areas | £150 – £200 |
Plasterer day rates in London are generally higher due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for skilled tradespeople. In contrast, rates in other large cities and rural areas tend to be more affordable.
Understanding the Legal and Ethical Considerations
When hiring a plasterer, it’s essential to consider the legal and ethical aspects to ensure the safety and quality of the work:
- Insurance: Ensure the plasterer has proper insurance coverage, including liability insurance, to cover any potential accidents or damage that may occur during the project.
- Contracts: A written contract outlining the terms of the job, including services provided, rates, and timelines, can help prevent misunderstandings and protect both parties.
- Ethical Practices: Verify that the plasterer follows ethical practices, including fair pricing and transparent communication about any additional costs.
- Permits and Regulations: Ensure that the plasterer adheres to all necessary building regulations and obtains any required permits for the project.
Plastering Terminology You Should Know
To help you communicate with your tradesperson, here are the key terms that affect your final bill:
- Skimming: The final stage of plastering. It involves a thin layer of finish plaster to create a wall ready for painting.
- Dry Lining: A faster alternative to wet plastering where plasterboards are attached to walls and then “taped and jointed” or skimmed.
- Artex Removal: The process of flattening or removing old-fashioned textured coatings. This is a high-skill job and often carries a higher day rate.
- Two-Coat Plastering: Involves a “scratch coat” (backing) and a “finish coat.” This is more expensive than a simple reskim.
- Dot and Dab: A technique used in dry lining to stick plasterboards directly to masonry walls using adhesive dabs.
How to Save Money on Your Plastering Project?
Plastering is a skilled trade, but you can reduce the number of days you pay for by handling the preparation yourself:
- Clear the Space: Remove all furniture and curtains so the plasterer can start immediately without spending an hour moving your belongings.
- Strip the Walls: Removing old wallpaper or loose, flaking paint yourself can save you half a day’s labor costs.
- Protect the Floors: Lay down your own heavy-duty floor protection or “sticky plastic” to save the tradesman time on setup and cleanup.
- Batch the Work: Hiring a plasterer for three rooms at once is almost always cheaper than hiring them for three separate one-day visits.
Verified Resources & Further Reading
To ensure you get the most accurate information, we recommend these industry-standard resources:
- Price Benchmarking: Check current market rates on Checkatrade.
- Trade Standards: View plastering qualification requirements at the CITB Official Site.
- Business Advice: Learn how to register as a sole trader on our startup hub.
- Insurance Info: See our guide on Public Liability Insurance for Tradespeople.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost and factors influencing plasterer day rates in the UK helps you make an informed decision for your project. On average, you can expect to pay between £150 and £300 per day, with variations based on location, experience, and the scope of work. By choosing a professional and reputable plasterer, you ensure quality results, efficiency, and safety for your project.
FAQ
How much do plasterers charge per day in London?
In London, plasterers typically charge between £200 and £300 per day due to the higher cost of living and demand for skilled tradespeople.
What is the salary of a self-employed plasterer in the UK?
Self-employed plasterers in the UK can earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, with those handling larger projects or having extensive experience potentially earning more.
Are plasterers in rural areas cheaper than in urban areas?
Yes, plasterers in rural areas generally charge less, with rates typically ranging from £150 to £200 per day, compared to higher rates in urban areas like London.
Do plasterers offer discounts for long-term projects?
Many plasterers may offer discounted rates for long-term projects. It’s advisable to discuss and negotiate rates for extended work periods.
What should I look for when hiring a plasterer?
Look for positive reviews, meet and greet the plasterer, check their credentials and insurance, get multiple quotes, and request a portfolio of their previous work.
Is there a difference in cost between standard plastering and specialized plastering?
Yes, specialized plastering, such as decorative work or using special materials, often costs more than standard plastering due to the additional skills and materials required.
