Drywall vs. Plaster Walls

While most new homes feature drywall, many vintage houses have plaster walls. Nonetheless, plaster comes with a textured look that many would consider sophisticated as well as upscale; and even though it is more labour intensive, it’s a high-end wall treatment where experts apply coats of plaster on nailed woods called lath. On the other hand, making drywall involves the nailing of boards (sheetrock) to studs, giving the walls a smooth, seamless look.

So, which one between these two should you go for? You’ll have to fully comprehend the difference between the two if you are to make a worthwhile decision on what fits your project best. This means giving careful consideration to the installation processes, the desired finished appearance as well as all the costs involved.

Here’s a short guide to help you.

All about Plaster

Plaster comes either in dry form or pre-mixed foam. It’s important to realize that applying plaster isn’t an easy DIY project. If anything, plastering requires highly skilled tradesmen with years of experience in the application process. This is why the use of drywall spiked during WWII as there weren’t enough skilled workers to handle the plastering projects. Therefore, checking whether there are skilled plasterers available in your area is the first thing to do before going for plaster walls because even in terms of repairs, plastering works may be simple or downright complicated. Worse still, plaster is a high-maintenance material. There’s, however, a modern version of this plaster wall known as veneer wall that gets installed in a similar way to sheetrock drywall panels.

All about Drywall

One of the most advantageous features of the drywall is that just about anybody can install it. Also known as plasterboard, drywall is a material that emanates from gypsum and can construct ceilings and walls. Also, drywall comes in wall-sized panels that are available in either 5/8 inch- or ½ inch- thickness.

The more the level of thickness, the higher the insulation capabilities. Even though the ½ inch panels are easier to manipulate and less expensive, the 5/8 inch panels provide an extra level of strength on top of drastically reducing sound from outside.

The process of installing drywall is simple because you only need to cut the panels to size and then fasten them into position. Take note that most professionals use a sheetrock hanger during drywall installations. This is the tool that helps them to save time since it can lift and hold the panels as you fasten them in place.

Difference in Cost

When you consider all the purchase and labour expenses, a plaster wall is almost always more expensive than drywall. Mind you, this conclusion takes into consideration the average costs for setting up plaster walls as compared to the simple screw or nail technique utilized in drywall installations. Still, if you want to plaster without using up a lot of resources, consider going for the veneer plaster. It is less expensive and less messy as compared to the traditional plaster wall. Drywall is, however, the most sensible and efficient finish for an average home.

For worthwhile drywall products, visit Bernardi Building Supplies.