Hancock Plastering and Painting Services
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Skimming

Skim plastering done flat and consistently — so paint goes on right every time.

The problem

Walls that look fine in emulsion look bad under spotlighting.

Skim plastering that's rushed, applied in variable thickness, or feathered poorly shows immediately once gloss or eggshell paint goes on. Raking light reveals every undulation and trowel lap. It can't be fixed by the decorator — only by replastering.

A skim coat looks like one of the simpler plastering jobs. It isn't. Getting it consistently flat across a full room requires experience and the right pace of work.

The Hancock approach

Flat, consistent, ready for paint.

We skim over existing plaster, bonding coat, or plasterboard. The substrate gets the right preparation first — diluted PVA or bonding agent where required. The skim is applied in two passes, finished tight, and left correctly cured before handing over.

Rooms skimmed by Hancock are ready to be decorated. That's the standard every job is held to.

Get a skimming quote.

Fixed price. Agreed before work starts.

Get a Free Quote07734 903439

Cancellations less than 48 hours before booking incur a £100 fee.

Our work

Recent projects

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Advice & insights

From the blog

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5 Signs Your Render Needs Repairing or Replacing

18 June 2026

5 Signs Your Render Needs Repairing or Replacing

Cracks, hollow patches, staining and damp can all mean your render is failing. Here are five warning signs to watch for — and what to do about them.

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The Best Time of Year to Paint or Render Your Home's Exterior

9 June 2026

The Best Time of Year to Paint or Render Your Home's Exterior

Weather makes or breaks exterior work. Here's the best time of year to render or paint the outside of your home in the UK, and why timing matters.

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Skim Coat or Full Re-Plaster: Which Does Your Wall Need?

28 May 2026

Skim Coat or Full Re-Plaster: Which Does Your Wall Need?

Not sure whether your walls need a quick skim or a full re-plaster? Here's how to tell the difference and what each job involves, from Hancock Plastering & Painting.

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FAQs

Skimming — frequently asked questions

Straight answers about our plastering and painting work across Middlesex and the Home Counties. Still unsure? Call 07734 903439.

What is the difference between skimming and plastering?
Skimming applies a thin 2–3mm finishing coat over a sound existing surface for a smooth, flat finish, whereas full plastering builds up backing coats first. We carry out both across Middlesex and the Home Counties.
Can you skim over Artex or textured ceilings?
Yes — we regularly skim over Artex and textured surfaces to leave a smooth, modern finish that is ready for paint.
How much does it cost to skim a room?
Skimming is quoted at a fixed price based on the area and condition of the walls or ceiling. Call 07734 903439 for a free quote with no obligation.
How long does a skim coat take to dry?
A skim coat usually dries within two to seven days depending on conditions and ventilation. We let you know exactly when it can be decorated.
Will skimming fix cracks and uneven walls?
Skimming flattens minor imperfections and fine cracks. Larger damage may need patching or a backing coat first, which we assess and include in your quote.