Do I need one coat of plaster or two?

Recently we have had one of our bedrooms re-plastered by a professional plasterer and decorator, but I’ve begun to notice that some of the areas are looking quite poorly done and not coated particularly thickly. Evident around plug sockets, switches and other fixtures in particular.
It appears to be one layer of plaster that has been used. Is this normal for plasterwork nowadays?
I recall that in previous years, plasterers would use two layers, but perhaps things have changed. I would like to know for sure, so that I know whether I will need to contact the plaster regarding their work.
I would appreciate any information about this.

Asked by angie on 19th Jul 2019
Expert Trade Answers
Best Answer
"As an experienced plasterer, I was always taught to use 2 coats of finish plaster and I’ll always continue to do so.

Tony."
Answered on 2nd Nov 2019 - Member since Jul 2019 - report
"All plaster work is two coats where possible, all plugs and switches are removed or at the least the front of the plug or switch is moved forward allowing access to the back. Unfortunately we are seeing more and more of the one coat plastering going on shame hope this helps mjs"
Answered on 19th Jul 2019 - Member since Aug 2018 - report
"I would always suggest using two coats as this gives the best finish. I wouldn't be happy leaving a job having only done a single coat of plaster."
Answered on 14th Jan 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"always use two coats 1x base coat 1x top coat (finishing coat on some walls 3 can be applied no more than 6mm to 8mm worst case"
Answered on 6th May 2020 - Member since Apr 2020 - report
"It's not ideal to be honest, we at L&P plastering always do 2 coats and if 3 is required then we shall."
Answered on 26th Feb 2020 - Member since Nov 2019 - report
"It sounds like the work has been carried out to a poor standard. 2 coats of plaster is still the way it is done using either multi finish or board finish plaster."
Answered on 17th Sep 2019 - Member since Dec 2018 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year