Question 1

What is a reskim and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A reskim is a fresh thin plaster coat applied over an existing wall or ceiling, usually done when the current surface is cracked, uneven, damaged by damp, or simply needs refreshing before decoration.

Question 2

Can you skim over wallpaper?

Accepted Answer

Wallpaper is removed first rather than skimmed over, since plaster does not bond reliably to paper and the wallpaper edges can show through or lift later.

Question 3

How much does a single room reskim typically cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary with room size, ceiling height and the condition of the existing surface, so Louis provides a written quote after seeing the room rather than a fixed rate over the phone.

Question 4

How long does a reskim take to dry before painting?

Accepted Answer

A skim coat generally needs about a week to dry fully in normal conditions before a full paint finish, with a diluted mist coat applied first.

Question 5

Can you skim a whole house before I move in or sell?

Accepted Answer

Yes, whole house reskims are a common job ahead of a sale, letting or move-in, refreshing every wall and ceiling to a consistent, sellable finish.

Question 6

Do you skim new plasterboard after a stud wall is built?

Accepted Answer

Yes, skimming fresh plasterboard is one of the most common jobs, giving new partitions, ceilings and dry-lined walls their final smooth surface.

Question 7

What happens if there is damp behind the plaster?

Accepted Answer

Damp needs to be identified and addressed at the source before reskimming, otherwise the new plaster will fail again. Louis will flag any suspected damp during the quote visit.

Question 8

Can cracks be properly fixed with a reskim?

Accepted Answer

Hairline and settlement cracks are usually resolved with a proper reskim, though structural cracks may need further investigation before plastering to make sure the cause is addressed.

Question 9

Do you skim ceilings as well as walls?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ceiling skimming is offered alongside wall skimming, either together in the same room or as a standalone ceiling job.

Question 10

Is skimming available for insurance repair work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, skimming and reskimming is a core part of insurance repair jobs following water damage, storm damage or subsidence work, finished to the standard insurers require.

Skimming in Havant and across Hampshire

Skimming and reskim work covers:

A sample of finished plastering and building jobs

Other services we offer

Frequently asked questions about skimming

Get a free quote from Louis today