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Lime Plastering Quotes

Traditional breathable plaster for period and heritage properties — listed buildings, solid-wall homes, and conservation-area properties. Compare up to 3 free quotes from vetted local tradespeople within 24 hours.

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About Lime Plastering

Lime plaster is a traditional building material used for thousands of years that has seen a significant revival, particularly in the conservation and heritage building sector. Unlike modern gypsum-based plasters, lime is breathable — it allows moisture to move through the wall and evaporate rather than being trapped, which is essential for the long-term health of solid-wall buildings.

Historic buildings — including listed properties, Victorian and Edwardian houses, and buildings in conservation areas — often require lime plaster on both internal and external walls. Using gypsum or cement on these buildings can cause serious damp problems, salt crystallisation, and structural damage over time.

Our network includes heritage plasterers skilled in lime putty, natural hydraulic lime (NHL), and hot lime work. Get free quotes from vetted specialists.

What’s involved

Assessment of existing plaster and substrate — removal of incompatible cement or gypsum if necessary
Application of lime scratch coat (NHL 2 or 3.5 for solid walls)
Application of lime float coat with hair or fibres for reinforcement
Finish coat — lime putty and fine aggregate, trowelled or textured
Multiple coats required — lime cures slowly over days/weeks
Lime wash or lime paint finish available as final decoration

Typical costs

Job type
Typical cost
Lime plaster (per m²)
£30 – £60
Single room lime plaster
£600 – £1,800
Lime hair scratch coat (per m²)
£12 – £22
External lime render (per m²)
£30 – £55
Lime pointing (per m)
£10 – £25
Guide prices only. Get 3 quotes for accurate pricing in your area.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need lime plaster in my old house?
Lime plaster is strongly recommended for solid-wall properties built before around 1919 (Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian). Solid walls rely on their ability to breathe — using modern gypsum or cement can trap moisture and lead to serious damp and damage.
Is lime plaster required for listed buildings?
Listed Building Consent usually requires using like-for-like materials in repairs, which means lime plaster for historic buildings originally finished in lime. Your conservation officer or planning authority can advise for your specific property.
Why is lime plaster more expensive than gypsum?
Lime plaster takes longer to apply (multiple coats, longer drying times between coats), requires more specialist knowledge, and the materials cost more. However, a good lime plaster installation can last for decades or even centuries.
How long does lime plaster take to dry?
Lime plaster cures through a chemical process (carbonation) rather than simply drying. Each coat needs several days to a week before the next is applied. A full three-coat system may take 2–4 weeks before final decoration.
Can I use lime plaster over gypsum?
Generally no — lime and gypsum are chemically incompatible. If you are switching to lime, existing gypsum plaster usually needs to be removed first.
What customers say
★★★★★ 4.9 / 5 from verified customers
★★★★★

“Used this to compare quotes for re-skimming our lounge and hallway. Had 3 plasterers contact us the same day. Went with the middle quote and the finish is absolutely perfect. Highly recommend.”

Claire B. Surrey
★★★★★

“Really straightforward. Described the rooms, entered my postcode and had calls from local plasterers within a couple of hours. Saved a significant amount compared to my first quote.”

Mark T. Manchester
★★★★★

“Had a whole house replaster after buying our Victorian terrace. The plasterer recommended through this site was brilliant — on time, tidy and the finish was excellent. No hesitation recommending.”

Janet R. Bristol
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