Skimming is the process of applying a very thin coat of finishing plaster to a wall or ceiling. It creates a perfectly smooth, flat surface ready for painting or wallpaper.

What does plasterboarding involve?

Plasterboarding (or dry lining) involves fixing gypsum plasterboard sheets to timber or metal studs. It’s a quick way to create new partition walls or reline ceilings before taping and skimming.

When should I use Venetian plaster?

Venetian plaster is a decorative finish made from polished lime and marble dust. Ideal for feature walls, it gives a deep, slightly glossy texture that mimics natural stone.

What is the difference between rendering and plastering?

Rendering is the exterior equivalent of plastering, applying a cement or lime-based coat to outside walls to protect and weatherproof. Plastering refers to internal walls and ceilings.

How long does a skim coat take to dry?

A standard skim coat typically takes 24–48 hours to fully dry, depending on temperature and ventilation. Once dry, it can be sanded smooth and decorated.

Do you repair cracks and holes?

Yes—whether it’s hairline cracks, holes left by old fixtures, or more extensive damage, our team will prepare, fill, and re-skim the area so it blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface.

How do I maintain a freshly plastered wall?

Keep new plaster out of direct drafts and extreme heat while it dries. Once decorated, clean gently with a damp cloth—avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture.

Which areas of Edinburgh do you cover?

Lothian Plaster serves every corner of Edinburgh, including Colinton, Craiglockhart, Craigmillar, Fairmilehead, Fountainbridge, Gorgie, Leith, Morningside, Bruntsfield, Oxgangs, Corstorphine and beyond.

Begin by applying a bonding coat to seal the surface, then follow with a 2–3 mm finish coat of ready-mixed skim plaster. Use a broad steel trowel, keep the plaster wet while you work, and lightly polish as it sets. For perfect results, our NVQ-qualified skimmers can handle every detail.

Plasterboard vs skimming

Plasterboard is a rigid sheet used to level walls or ceilings, then jointed and often skimmed. Skimming alone is a thin finish coat directly on brick, block, or board. We often combine boarding and skimming to ensure straight walls and a flawless finish.

Skimming vs. plasterboarding—what’s the difference?

Skimming is a cosmetic finish applied as a final coat, while plasterboarding builds or lines walls with gypsum panels. Each has its place—our experts choose the right method for your project.

How to patch a small hole in plaster?

Clean and dampen the hole, apply a bonding slurry, then fill with fine finishing plaster. Once set, level with a trowel and sand smooth. Our team handles these quick repairs daily—no mark left behind.

What is plasterboard vs skimming?

Plasterboard sheets fix over uneven surfaces to create a flat substrate, then joints are taped and skimmed. Direct skimming applies a thin coat over masonry. Both deliver smooth walls; we’ll recommend the best approach for your home.

Liberton’s Expert Plasterers for South Edinburgh Homes

Call us on: 07795555373 or Email: lothianplaster@gmail.com

Fully Qualified Plasterer | CSCS Certified | Liberton’s Certified Plastering Experts

5-Star Reviews on Google

Your Liberton Plastering Pros, Reliability Rooted in South Edinburgh

At Lothian Plaster, we’re proud to serve Liberton - one of South Edinburgh’s most vibrant communities - with plastering expertise tailored to its mix of sandstone villas, mid-century bungalows and newly built family homes. We appreciate the area’s distinctive character, whether it’s the sweeping gables of Victorian-era terraces around Liberton Road or the clean lines of modern developments by Braid Hills.

Whether you need ornate cornices sympathetically restored, cracked ceilings and walls repaired, or a flawless skim coat applied for a fresh new look, our skilled team delivers durable, picture-perfect finishes that honour your home’s style. We work tidily, efficiently, and with the neighbourly respect you’d expect from a local plasterer.

As a Liberton-based business, we take pride in helping homeowners and businesses here preserve and enhance their spaces, combining dependable service, clear communication and craftsmanship you can trust.

Our Plastering Services in Liberton

Plaster Boarding

Skimming/ Re-Skimming Walls & Ceilings

New Ceilings & Ceiling Repair

Stripping Walls

Plastering Walls

Venetian plastering

Dry Lining Walls

Rendering

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About Lothian Plaster

Established in 2017 by Ben, Lothian Plaster has been perfecting the walls and ceilings of Liberton ever since. With over ten years’ hands-on plastering expertise, Ben is an NVQ Level 2 certified craftsman and CSCS Skilled Worker who leads a team committed to polite, professional service. Every Liberton job is finished on schedule and to our exacting standards with no compromises.

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What Customers in Liberton Say

Ben did a brilliant job - we were so pleased with the quality of his work. He was really accommodating to a few additional jobs too which was much appreciated! Wouldn't hesitate to recommend 🌟

Excellent, very professional service and quick in communication. I got my textured ceiling plastered over and they did a fantastic job. Thanks!

Ben came alone to quote for the work, made some suggestions which I took on board and then proceeded to complete the job with his team for the amount discussed, in the timescale agreed. Great work too. Bedroom ceiling looks superb.

Would definitely highly recommend Lothian Plaster to anyone looking to get work done. So professional and did a very good job. We had two rooms done and I will definitely be contacting them in the future for further jobs. Great guys. Friendly and professional. Ben always responded quickly to my queries and the end result is excellent.

Why Choose Lothian Plaster in Liberton?

Local Know-How: We’re intimately familiar with Liberton’s architectural mix, from charming sandstone villas along Liberton Road to sleek new builds near Braid Hills. So our plastering complements every style.
Tailored Techniques: Whether you need period cornices carefully restored or a contemporary skim coat laid for a fresh aesthetic, we match our methods and materials to your home’s era and design.
Durability You Can Trust: Our finishes are smooth, robust, and primed for paint or wallpaper, engineered to resist cracks, moisture, and everyday wear in South Edinburgh’s climate.
Seamless Service: We pride ourselves on punctual arrivals, meticulous preparation, and a tidy workspace, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum respect for your Liberton home.
Community Commitment: As your neighbours, we value clear communication, fair pricing, and top-quality workmanship, helping Liberton homeowners and businesses maintain properties they’re proud of.

Edinburgh plastering service in progress. An example of Lothian Plasters work

A new ceiling that we put in | Edinburgh Plastering | Lothian Plastering

After Our Edinburgh Plastering service was done. Lothian Plaster.

Before our Edinburgh Plastering Service had started.

Lothian plaster ceiling work | Edinburgh plastering

Lothian plaster dry wall | Edinburgh Plaster

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