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What a plasterer does
A plasterer prepares and coats internal walls and ceilings with plaster, and external walls with render, to produce flat, smooth and sound surfaces. Work includes skimming over plasterboard, floating and setting, and patch repairs.
Plastering blends preparation, mixing to the right consistency and skilled application within a workable time. Some plasterers specialise in internal finishing, others in external rendering or in restoration and ornamental work.
Core responsibilities
- Preparing surfaces and fixing beads and backgrounds.
- Mixing plaster and render to the correct consistency.
- Applying float, set and skim coats to walls and ceilings.
- Rendering external walls where required.
- Producing a smooth, level finish ready for decoration.
- Carrying out patch repairs and making good.
Skills and qualities
- A steady hand and an eye for a flat, even finish.
- Knowledge of plasters, renders and backgrounds.
- Good timing to work materials before they set.
- Attention to detail and consistent quality.
- Physical fitness for repetitive overhead work.
- Reliability and good teamwork on site.
Typical employers and settings
- Plastering and finishing contractors.
- Construction and refurbishment firms.
- House builders and property developers.
- Maintenance and restoration companies.
- Domestic and commercial clients.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through trade and labour agencies.
- Screening looks at experience, any qualifications and right to work.
- Interviews are practical and may include a trade test.
- Employers commonly check references and required safety cards.
- Onboarding covers site rules, materials and the tasks.
Documents involved
- A job description setting out the tasks and standards.
- Proof of relevant plastering experience or qualifications.
- An employment contract or assignment terms for agency work.
- An offer letter confirming role, site and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and onboarding checklist.
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