Plastering & Stopping

• Stopping is the process of finishing plasterboard joints and screw fixings to create a smooth, paint-ready surface.

• Plastering goes further, often applying a skim coat over entire walls to give a seamless, uniform finish.

At Holfix Limited, we ensure both stopping and plastering deliver flawless walls ready for painting or decorating.

Skimming and plastering are closely related, but they’re not the same.

• Plastering is the overall process of applying plaster to walls or ceilings. It usually involves thicker layers (around 10–15mm) to create a solid, level surface - especially over brick, blockwork, or new plasterboard. It forms the base that makes walls durable, even, and ready for finishing.

• Skimming is a type of plastering, but it’s specifically the final step. A very thin coat (around 2–3mm) is applied over an existing surface to create a perfectly smooth, paint-ready finish.

In simple terms:

• Plastering builds and levels the wall

• Skimming smooths and finishes it

When is each used?

• Plastering: New builds, bare walls, or major surface levelling

• Skimming: Renovations, covering imperfections, or refreshing existing walls

Skimming is a fast, cost-effective way to refresh walls—covering minor damage and creating a clean, modern finish ready for painting. Because it’s such a fine finish, skimming requires a high level of skill to get it perfectly smooth.

• Skim coating (a thin 2-3mm finish) is for cosmetic fixes, such as covering minor cracks, uneven texture, or covering walls after wallpaper removal.

• Full plastering is necessary if the wall is crumbling, has deep structural cracks, or is entirely new, requiring a stronger, thicker (10-15mm) base.

Skimming tends to be cheaper than plastering because it is less labor-intensive. Plastering requires applying several layers of wet plaster to the wall, which must then be left to dry before being sanded down. Skimming only requires applying a thin layer of filler compound, which dries more quickly.

Because skimming is such a fine layer of plaster, it’s important to hire experienced tradespeople who know what they’re doing.

A Level 4 plaster finish provides a smooth, professional surface for your walls and ceilings, ready for paint or wallpaper.

It’s perfect for most interior projects in Auckland and across the Upper North Island, where medium-texture paints or coverings are used. While very smooth, minor imperfections may be visible under bright light.

At Holfix Limited, our Level 4 plastering ensures your walls are durable, clean, and ready for a flawless finish.

A Level 5 plaster finish is the ultimate standard for smooth, seamless walls. This finish adds an extra skim coat and careful sanding to deliver a perfect surface ideal for high-gloss or light-reflective paints. It is also used in areas with strong natural or artificial light where imperfections are more visible. .

For Auckland homes and businesses seeking a truly flawless, paint-ready look, Holfix Limited provides Level 5 plastering that elevates any interior.

While plastering and skimming may look simple online, achieving a flawless, long-lasting finish takes years of experience. Poor workmanship can lead to cracks, uneven paint finishes, moisture issues, and reduced durability over time.

A professional plasterer uses the right materials, tools, and techniques for each surface - ensuring a smooth result that not only looks great but stands up to everyday wear.

Choosing a reputable expert means your walls are done properly the first time, saving you time, stress, and costly repairs later.

Yes - we regularly correct uneven, cracked, or poorly finished surfaces.