Key Differences Between Plaster and Drywall

To provide the precise finishing to a wall, there are two options i.e. drywall and plaster. Both provide smooth and durable walls, but significant difference is still in between these two. In this blog, you will learn about the distinction between plaster and Drywall. Therefore, you will be able to make precise choices for your construction or renovation. However, you can get assistance from experts, for example, Buzz Builder, drywall contractors Vancouver.

Interior Wall Covering

In the early 20th century, for the following few decades, plaster was the most widely used interior wall covering in North America. However, since then, things have evolved. Plaster replaces the drywall, which United States Gypsum (USG) originally introduced in 1916. Most of the increasingly rare homes with plaster walls were constructed prior to 1940.

The home trades during the war years and the post-war building boom finally realized the benefits of drywall, including its lower cost, ease of installation, and robustness. Plastering is a specialized craft these days, and finding qualified people can be challenging.

Plaster repairs can be completed by do-it-yourselfers, but a full-scale installation should only be attempted after having professional training and ample practice. While plastering walls is more difficult than drywall, there are some clear benefits. That’s the reason it’s returning.

Construction Methods of Plaster Vs. Drywall

Plaster walls traditionally install with covering of the framing studs with wood lath. These are made up of thin wood strips fastened to the studs horizontally and closely spaced apart. To fill in the spaces, the laborer applies a foundation coat of plaster. To achieve a smooth surface, he or she applies two or three further topcoats.

Nowadays, metal mesh is making come back rather a lath. However, these both have the same application procedure. Conversely, drywall contains compressed gypsum sheets wrapped in paper. One might fasten directly to the studs with nails or screws. To produce a seamless surface, you still need to apply joint compound, often known as mud, to the seams, which is like plaster. Compared to a plaster wall, the process requires far less compound and takes less time.

To ensure that the ends of the boards overlap a stud during framing, position wall studs appropriately because drywall sheets have set widths and lengths. The typical wall stud spacing is 16 inches at the center. Since a plaster coating gets support by the lath rather than the studs, plastering does not require this spacing.

Difference Between Drywall and Plaster

The difference between drywalls and plaster are follow as: -

Making Process

The material that makes up drywall, commonly referred to as sheetrock or gypsum board, is gypsum plaster layered between two sheets of paper. It has strong fire protection, is lightweight, and is simple to install. Conversely, plaster is a concoction of water, sand, and gypsum. It is a more conventional substance that is coming into use for generations to build sturdy, smooth walls.

Installing Process

Installing drywall is a simple and quick process. To achieve a smooth finish, the panels must be trimmed to size, fastened to the wall studs with screws, and then joint compound and taped. However, plaster installation is a more labor-intensive procedure. It takes expert artisans who manually apply several coats of plaster, letting each coat cure completely before moving on to the next.

Strength and Ability

Drywall is famous for its strength and ability to withstand cracks. It is less vulnerable to harm from collisions and can tolerate typical wear and tear. In contrast, plaster is incredibly resilient and, with proper care, can endure for decades or even centuries. It has better soundproofing and insulating qualities and is less prone to cracking.

Repair

Drywall is a reasonably simple material to repair. Joint compounds can come in use to mend small holes or dents, which can then be sanded down and painted to match the surrounding color. Conversely, plaster repairs call for much greater proficiency and knowledge. Plaster walls that have holes or cracks in them require careful patch and smoothness to resemble the original texture.

Aesthetics

Next is aesthetics. The homogeneous and smooth surface that drywall offers makes it perfect for modern and contemporary interior design. To get the desired look, painting or wallpapering is a simple task. Conversely, plaster provides a distinctive and classic look. It adds character and dimension to any environment, whether it is smooth or textured.

Painting Drywall vs. Plaster

Compared to drywall, plaster is more porous and can allow stains to seep through the topcoat because of the lime content. Drywall requires a different primer drywall.

Plaster Painting

Plastering is best done using a stain-blocking primer, preferably oil-based. Prior to priming, if the plaster is old and needs repair, then flexible, paintable clauses work here. You can apply any topcoat that is compatible with the primer after it dries.

Drywall Painting

PVA adhesives are a component of drywall primers, these are water-based, low-cost, and release few volatile organic compounds (VOCs). You can apply any suitable water- or oil-based finish after the primer dries.

Comparing Costs

Skilled plasters always ask for a premium price. Plaster installation results in a considerably more skewed labor-to-materials cost ratio. Between 35 and 60 percent of the total cost of drywall is labor. It’s closer to 70–90 percent plaster. The cost of a regular drywall job could range from $1 to $3 per square foot.

Conclusion

Plaster and drywall each offer benefits and things to think about. Plaster offers a more conventional and visually pleasant alternative to drywall, which makes it durable and easy to installation. When deciding between the two, consider your unique requirements, financial constraints, and preferred style. Both plaster and drywall can come in use to build elegant and useful walls for your residential or commercial space. For more information, contact Buzz Builder, drywall contractor in Vancouver.