What’s Harder? (Straight Answers From a 20-Year Plasterer)
By a Bournemouth Plastering Expert
If you’ve ever looked up at your ceiling and thought, “How hard can it be to skim that?” the answer is simple:
Harder than you think.
Ceiling plastering is one of the most challenging DIY tasks in home improvement, and today I’m breaking down why. With 20 years of plastering experience across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, I’ve seen every type of ceiling problem you can imagine.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Whether ceilings are harder to plaster than walls
- The biggest disadvantages of plaster ceilings
- The correct order for plastering
- How easily ceilings crack
- Whether you should skim a ceiling yourself
Let’s get into it.
1. Is Plastering a Ceiling Harder Than a Wall? Absolutely.
Ceilings are physically tougher, technically more demanding, and far less forgiving. You’re working overhead, keeping balance, and fighting gravity the entire time.
If you’ve never plastered before, a ceiling is not the place to start.
2. Is It Really That Difficult to Plaster a Ceiling?
Yes.
Ceilings require:
- Precise timing
- Strong, consistent technique
- Clean pressure on the trowel
- Speed without sacrificing finish
Ridges, lines and sagging spots are the most common issues for beginners.
3. What Are the Disadvantages of Plaster Ceilings?
Plaster ceilings look great when done right, but they come with a few downsides:
- Cracking is more common, especially in older homes
- Repairs take more time and skill
- They are heavier, especially traditional lath-and-plaster ceilings
- DIY attempts often go wrong and require fixing
Despite this, a professional skim makes a huge visual impact.
4. Do You Plaster the Ceiling or Walls First?
The correct order is simple: ceiling first, walls second.
This prevents freshly finished walls from being damaged by drops or splashes of plaster.
5. Do Plaster Ceilings Crack Easily?
Older ceilings do.
Modern plasterboard-and-skim ceilings are more stable, but can still crack if:
- There is movement in the structure
- Temperature fluctuates
- Joints are not taped properly
- There is vibration from above
Most cracks are minor and easily repaired, but recurring ones can indicate movement.
6. Can You Skim the Ceiling Yourself?
You can attempt it, but ceiling skimming is challenging, physically demanding, and requires strong technique. If you want a smooth, consistent, professional finish, a trained plasterer will achieve it faster and cleaner.
Plastering a ceiling is not impossible, but it requires skill, timing, and strength. Whether you’re repairing damage or refreshing a room, understanding the difficulty will help you decide between DIY and hiring a professional.
If you’re based in Bournemouth and want a ceiling skimmed to a professional standard, feel free to get in touch.
