Plaster Skimming vs. Floating and Bonding – What’s the Difference?

When refreshing walls, you might hear the terms “plaster skimming” and “floating and bonding.” They sound similar but they are used for different situations and achieve different results depending on the condition of your walls.

Plaster Skimming (Reskimming)Skimming involves applying a thin, smooth coat of finishing plaster over an existing wall or ceiling. It is best used when the surface underneath is already flat and sound, such as old plaster that needs refreshing or previously painted walls that require a clean, even finish ready for decoration. Skimming is purely a finishing process and does not correct uneven or damaged surfaces.

Floating and Bonding (Replastering or Backing Out)If the existing wall is uneven, cracked or has been taken back to bare brick or blockwork, it first needs to be floated or bonded. This means applying a thicker base coat, usually bonding plaster or hardwall, to level and straighten the surface. Once this layer has set, a fine skim coat is applied to achieve a perfectly smooth finish.

Which Method Is Right for You?If your wall is in good condition, a simple skim will bring it back to life with a smooth, ready-to-paint surface. If it is uneven, damaged or out of true, it will need to be floated and skimmed to achieve a professional result.

At Leadway Developments, we always assess the condition of each wall before deciding on the most suitable method to deliver a durable and high-quality finish.