Drywall vs Plaster Which Material Reigns Supreme for Your Home Renovation
- Samuel B.
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 19
When planning a home renovation, the choice of wall material is essential. Two of the most common options are drywall and plaster. Each has distinct benefits and drawbacks that can make your decision difficult. This post will break down the differences between drywall and plaster to help you find the right choice for your renovation project. If you’d like professional help, explore our full range of services at DBG Contracting Services.
Understanding Drywall
Drywall, also known as gypsum board, consists of a gypsum core encased in heavy paper. It has gained popularity among homeowners and contractors due to its quick installation and affordability—especially for projects like Additions & Renovations or finishing spaces such as Basements and Attics.
Advantages of Drywall
Quick Installation: Drywall can often be hung, taped, and finished rapidly, keeping timelines tight for room updates or larger Additions.
Cost-Effective: Materials are generally more affordable than plaster, an advantage that scales on bigger jobs like Kitchen Remodels or Bathroom Renovations.
Versatility: Works for walls, ceilings, and curved details, and it’s easy to repaint—pair perfectly with our interior Painting Services.
Fire Resistance: Many drywall products are designed to be fire-resistant, adding a critical safety feature to your renovation.
Disadvantages of Drywall
Less Durable: Can dent and is vulnerable to water damage, which matters in moisture-prone areas like Bathrooms or lower levels like Basements.
Sound Insulation: Typically provides less sound dampening than plaster—consider layout-specific solutions for spaces like a Home Office.
Limited Aesthetic Options: Paintable but lacks the custom textures you can achieve with plaster or with design-forward finishes like our Luxury Accent Walls & Millwork.
Exploring Plaster
Plaster is a traditional mix (commonly lime, sand, water) known for strength and refined finishes—great for elevating feature walls alongside custom Millwork.
Advantages of Plaster
Durability: Excellent impact resistance; a smart choice for high-traffic family spaces or premium rooms like a showcase Kitchen.
Aesthetic Appeal: Allows rich textures and ornate details—complement beautifully with bespoke Accent Walls & Millwork.
Sound Insulation: Often reduces noise better than drywall—useful for media spaces in a finished Basement or a quiet Home Office.
Fire Resistance: Similar to drywall, plaster also offers fire-resistant properties, ensuring safety in a residential setting.
Disadvantages of Plaster
Labor-Intensive Installation: The plaster installation process is significantly more labor-intensive than that of drywall. While drywall can often be installed by one or two people, plaster typically requires specialized skills, which can lead to higher labor costs.
Higher Material Costs: The cost for plaster materials is usually higher. Depending on the finish, plaster can be 25% more expensive than drywall.
Cracking: Can develop hairline cracks over time; skilled repair and repainting via our Painting Services can restore the look.
A Closer Look at Costs
When comparing drywall and plaster, financial considerations are often key.
Drywall Costs
Material Costs: Typically, drywall sheets cost between $10 and $15 each, depending on the thickness and type.
Labor Costs: Installation fees for drywall can range from $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, depending on local rates and project complexity.
Plaster Costs
Material Costs: Plaster materials vary from $15 to $25 per square foot, depending on the type and finish.
Labor Costs: Professional plaster installation tends to range from $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot due to the complexity of the work involved.
Not sure which route fits your goals and budget? Get a tailored estimate: Request a Quote.
The Installation Process
Drywall Installation
Preparation: Ensure the frame is ready and all plumbing and electrical work is completed.
Hanging: Use screws or nails to hang drywall sheets on the wall.
Taping and Finishing: Tape the joints and apply joint compound. Once dry, sand the surface to achieve a smooth finish.
Painting: After the joint compound has dried, prime and paint the drywall to complete the look. Our team can handle it end-to-end with Painting Services.
Plaster Installation
Preparation: As with drywall, ensure the frame is in place and utilities are set.
Lath Installation: A wooden or metal lath is often installed to provide a stable base for plaster.
Applying Plaster: Multiple layers of plaster are applied, with each layer allowed to dry before the next.
Finishing: The last coat of plaster can be smoothed or textured according to your preference.
Maintenance and Repair
Drywall Maintenance
Plaster Maintenance
Repairing Cracks: Cracks in plaster can be filled with specialized products, but matching the original texture can be challenging.
Longevity: Plaster offers impressive durability with proper care, often lasting for several decades before requiring significant repair.
Environmental Considerations
Both drywall and plaster impact the environment differently.
Drywall
Recyclability: Many drywall products are recyclable, which helps minimize waste.
Sustainability: Producing drywall can utilize considerable energy; however, newer eco-friendly products are increasingly available.
Plaster
Natural Materials: Plaster is composed of natural substances, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
Longevity: The durability of plaster often means less frequent replacement, resulting in overall reduced waste.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between drywall and plaster depends on your timeline, budget, and desired look. For fast, economical builds and clean walls, drywall often wins. For premium durability, sound control, and custom textures, plaster shines—especially when paired with high-end Millwork & Accent Walls.
If you’re planning a remodel—whether it’s a new Addition, finishing a Basement, reimagining a Kitchen or Bathroom, or creating a quiet Home Office—our team can help you choose the right wall system and deliver a flawless finish.
Start the conversation today: Request a Quote or Contact Us.
