I like using lining paper as an alternative to skimming. Let’s look at both instances, when to get Lining paper and when to re-skim/re-plaster. Skimming or replastering is sometimes necessary if huge chunks of plaster are falling out of your wall, or you have massive areas of skim that have come off when removing wallpaper for example. Given that I was fully gutting my home, and having to replace my kitchen, bathroom, and basically buy everything else I decided to re-visit this decision. Skimming the walls seemed like the obvious choice over wallpapering, when I was renovating my home. Deciding whether to Skim or use Lining Paper But let’s get into it in a bit more detail. Freshly skimmed walls require sanding and more coats of paint. Generally, I prefer using lining paper if I can, first because I don’t need to hire a plasterer But also because lining paper is easier to paint and requires fewer coats. If the plaster is peeling off the walls excessively and in large patches, skimming is advisable.

Should you skim or go for lining paper? If the walls are intact, with small patches of plaster, lining paper is a good, cost-effective option. I decided to use lining paper, as the quality of my walls was good after removing my wallpaper, and I needed to save every penny that I could.

It can save or cost you money depending on the state of your walls. Choosing whether to skim or use lining paper is an important decision.

Skimming over wallpaper