Plastering vs. Skimming — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 8, 2024
Plastering involves applying layers of plaster to cover or repair walls, while skimming is a finishing technique that applies a thin, smooth layer of plaster over existing plaster or drywall.
Difference Between Plastering and Skimming
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Plastering encompasses the broader task of creating a smooth surface by applying one or more layers of plaster to walls or ceilings. Skimming, on the other hand, specifically refers to applying a very thin coat over a previously plastered or drywalled surface to achieve a fine, smooth finish.
Plastering involves multiple layers and can be used to build up a surface, repair damaged areas, or provide a solid base for painting or wallpapering. Skimming is often used as a final step to refine the surface and give it a flawless appearance.
Plastering requires a thicker application and may include a base or scratch coat followed by finishing coats, while skimming usually applies only a thin layer that is spread evenly across the entire surface.
Plastering is ideal for new construction or major renovations that require foundational coverage, whereas skimming is best suited for refreshing or improving existing walls.
Comparison Chart
Purpose
Base layer for walls and ceilings
Smooth finishing layer
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Thickness
Multiple layers, relatively thick
Thin, final layer
Use
New walls, significant repairs
Refining existing plaster or drywall
Materials
Traditional or modern plaster
Finishing plaster or joint compound
Application
Requires several coats
Usually a single, thin coat
Compare with Definitions
Plastering
Applying plaster to cover or finish a surface.
The workers began plastering the new walls yesterday.
Skimming
Refining existing plaster with a final coat.
Skimming is the last step before priming the walls.
Plastering
Building up walls in multiple coats to ensure an even surface.
The old wall needed three coats of plastering to look new again.
Skimming
Improving the appearance of existing walls.
The builder recommended skimming to achieve the desired finish.
Plastering
Creating a smooth, durable wall or ceiling finish.
Plastering gives the room a polished look once painted.
Skimming
Creating a sleek surface by spreading plaster thinly.
The skimming process ensures the wall is free of imperfections.
Plastering
Repairing damaged walls by building up plaster layers.
The plastering work was necessary to fix the cracks.
Skimming
Using finishing plaster or joint compound over plaster or drywall.
Skimming often involves applying joint compound with a trowel.
Plastering
Using a variety of plasters, from traditional lime to modern gypsum.
Plastering materials can vary based on the desired finish.
Skimming
Applying a thin coat of plaster for a smooth finish.
They are skimming the old drywall to prepare it for painting.
Plastering
A layer or coating of plaster.
Skimming
A portion that has been skimmed from a liquid.
Plastering
(Informal) A resounding defeat; a beating.
Skimming
An embezzlement fraud in which the information on a credit card is copied, usually when the owner uses the card to make a purchase, and is then loaded onto a fake card to be used fraudulently.
Plastering
Present participle of plaster
Skimming
Present participle of skim
Plastering
The act or process of overlaying with plaster.
Skimming
Something skimmed from a surface etc.
Aluminium skimmings
Sorghum syrup skimmings
Plastering
A covering of plaster; plasterwork.
Skimming
A motion or action that skims.
Plastering
The act or process of overlaying with plaster.
Skimming
(uncountable) The sport of skimboarding.
Plastering
A covering of plaster; plasterwork.
Skimming
(crime) The act of fraudulently copying a magnetic stripe from a magnetic stripe card, such as found on credit cards and bank cards, through the use of a skimmer
Plastering
The application of plaster
Skimming
The act of one who skims.
Skimming
That which is skimmed from the surface of a liquid; - chiefly used in the plural; as, the skimmings of broth.
Skimming
The act of removing floating material from the surface of a liquid
Skimming
Reading or glancing through quickly
Skimming
Failure to declare income in order to avoid paying taxes on it
Skimming
The act of brushing against while passing
Common Curiosities
When is skimming recommended?
Skimming is ideal for refreshing or refining an existing surface before painting.
When should plastering be done?
Plastering is suitable for new construction or when foundational layers are needed.
Can skimming fix cracks in walls?
Minor cracks can be addressed with skimming, but deeper issues require plastering.
What is skimming?
Skimming is the process of applying a thin, finishing coat of plaster over a surface.
What materials are used for plastering?
Plastering uses various plasters, like lime or gypsum.
What is plastering?
Plastering is the process of covering walls or ceilings with multiple layers of plaster.
Is skimming part of plastering?
Yes, skimming is a finishing step often used in plastering.
Can plastering be done directly on drywall?
Yes, but it often needs a bonding agent or base coat first.
Is skimming more cost-effective than plastering?
Skimming can be more cost-effective if only surface-level refinishing is needed.
Which technique is better for repainting walls?
Skimming is usually better for repainting since it provides a smooth, clean surface.
Is plastering thicker than skimming?
Yes, plastering usually involves thicker coats than skimming.
Do plastering and skimming require different tools?
Similar tools are used for both, but plastering often requires heavier equipment.
What materials are used for skimming?
Skimming typically uses finishing plaster or joint compound.
How long does plastering take compared to skimming?
Plastering can take longer due to multiple layers, while skimming is quicker with a single coat.
Can skimming be done over existing plaster?
Yes, skimming is frequently applied over existing plaster for refinishing.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
