Installing plaster coving is one of the most effective ways to add character and charm to a room—but should you tackle it yourself or hire a professional? While many homeowners are comfortable with DIY tasks, coving installation requires precision, planning, and the right tools. In this article, we’ll help you decide when it’s a job for the weekend warrior and when it’s best left to the experts.
✅ When to DIY Coving Installation
For confident DIYers, fitting coving can be a rewarding project—especially with lightweight materials or straightforward spaces.
1. You’re Installing Lightweight Coving
Modern smaller covings are easier to handle and cut. It’s ideal for DIY installation in smaller or newer homes where simplicity is key.
2. The Room Has Simple Layouts
Straight walls and square corners make the job far more manageable. If your ceiling has no alcoves, beams, or curved walls, you’re likely in good shape to go it alone.
3. You Have the Right Tools and Patience
Basic tools like a mitre box, fine-toothed saw, adhesive, filler, and sandpaper are essential. You’ll also need a keen eye for detail to ensure clean joints and level lines.
4. Budget is a Key Concern
DIY installation can save on labour costs—just keep in mind that a poorly installed coving can be more expensive to put right than to do correctly the first time.
⚠️ When to Hire a Professional Coving Installer
Some projects are best left to skilled hands—especially when dealing with heavy materials, complex rooms, or period features.
1. You’re Working with Plaster Coving
Traditional plaster coving can be heavy and requires experienced handling. Professionals are trained to cut, support, and fit plaster coving without damaging the product—or your walls.
2. You Have High Ceilings or Irregular Shapes
Rooms with high ceilings, bay windows, or curved walls can be difficult and even dangerous to work in without the right equipment and experience.
3. You’re Restoring a Period Property
Heritage homes demand a higher level of care and accuracy. A specialist coving installer will ensure that any ornate mouldings are fitted with the attention they deserve.
4. You Want a Flawless Finish
A skilled installer will ensure joints are seamless, lines are straight, and the finish is clean—especially important if you plan to paint or decorate afterward.
Need Help Deciding?
At Plaster Coving Ltd, we not only supply high-quality handmade plaster mouldings, but we also work with a trusted network of professional coving installers across the UK. If you're unsure whether to go DIY or hire a pro, just get in touch—we’re happy to advise based on your project, room size, and budget.
📞 Call us today on 01723 321 111
Or contact us online and we’ll help you make the right choice for your coving installation.
