In the UK, there are two popular ways to smooth out walls before painting them - skimming and plastering. So, which is the better option? Skimming is often seen as the cheaper alternative to plastering, but is that really the case? Let's take a closer look.

When it comes to sprucing up your home, few things have as big an impact as a fresh coat of paint. But before you can enjoy your newly painted walls, you'll need to prepare the surface first. So, which is the better option? Skimming is often seen as the cheaper alternative to plastering, but is that really the case? Let's take a closer look.

The cost of skimming vs. plastering will depend on a few factors, including the size of the room and the condition of the walls. In general, though, skimming tends to be cheaper than plastering because it is less labor-intensive. Plastering requires applying several layers of wet plaster to the wall, which must then be left to dry before being sanded down. Skimming only requires applying a thin layer of filler compound, which dries more quickly.

That being said, skimming may not be the best option if your walls are in rough condition. If your walls have cracks or holes, they will need to be repaired before being skimmed. Otherwise, you'll just end up with an uneven surface that will be difficult to paint over evenly. In such cases, plastering would be a better option since it can fill in irregularities more effectively.

So, should you skim or plaster your walls before painting them? The answer depends on your specific situation. If you're on a tight budget and your walls are in good condition, skimming is probably your best bet. But if money isn't an issue and your walls need some serious TLC, plastering would be the way to go.

We at Builders Hardware Direct are your one-stop shop for everything you need to get your home and garden ready for summer so that it is a comfortable and amazing location to enjoy the weather. Our shop area has all kinds of necessities, and we're always here to assist if you have any questions or need some guidance. We'll be happy to see what we can do if you phone us at 1269 267030.