Skimming "sprayed-on" render?

[Jimj40]

Hi, all.

I'm a complete novice on this topic so please feel free to howl with laughter....

I've seen a great house that I like in Bulgaria which has an outside finish of what I can only describe as sprayed-on render, ie it's a very rough finish with many peaks close together (it's also white and I guess whatever was sprayed had the white mixed with it as there's no sign of any subsequent white over-spray). It doesn't look too bad as an exterior finish, although it was likely used to hide who-knows-what I've seen the same finish on houses in the UK, from the 1950s or 60s, I'd guess.

The problem is inside - the silly beggars also sprayed the same stuff on the walls, probably to hide something I might prefer not to see any way

The question is - is it likely to be possible to skim the internal walls to get them flat? I'm not fussed about a particularly smooth finish as it's an old house with wooden-beamed ceilings and it would add character if the walls looked a bit "hand done". It doesn't look as though sanding would be at all possible and boarding would probably be a nightmare, so I guess skimming is the answer. I don't want to leave it as is - if anyone fell against the wall they could get badly grazed/cut.

In case anyone's wondering, the price reflects the possible risks I'm taking with hidden "surprises"....

 

[Richard C]

Some preparation & a base coat may be necessary if the walls are very uneven but I would say it’s entirely possible to plaster the internal walls. Things to bear in mind;

• If it’s a solid brick wall it may be subject to damp & plaster definitely doesn’t like damp; it festers, crumbles & falls of. Some form of waterproof render may be more suitable & this can look quiet smooth & rustic after painting.
• I have no idea what plaster products are available in Bulgaria so that may be a deciding factor.
• I’ve no idea if plastering as we know it in the UK is common in Bulgaria or if there would be anyone with the necessary skills to do it.