Skimming is covering drywall with a layer of drywall compound after installation or to smooth old walls. Plastering is covering plaster walls with a mixture of gypsum or lime, cement or sand, and water. Plastering is more costly and labor-intensive than skim coating.

Do I need plastering or skimming?

If an existing plaster wall is in good condition – smooth and without major cracks or chips – then you probably don't need to have it skimmed. If you've attached plasterboard, or drylining you have the choice of either painting or decorating straight onto the board, or finishing with a layer of skim plaster.

Is skimming cheaper than plastering UK?

Cost of re-skimming a room

This typically involves adding a 5-8 mm layer of finishing plaster over the top of existing plaster walls. So, it's a lot cheaper than plastering a room from scratch.