Plaster vs. Drywall: Key Differences, Pros & Cons, and Which to Choose for Your Home
When planning a home renovation or new construction, one important decision you’ll need to make is the type of wall finish to use. Two of the most popular options are plaster and drywall. While they both serve the purpose of creating smooth interior walls, they differ significantly in terms of material composition, installation method, durability, and cost.
In this guide, we’ll compare plaster vs. drywall, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks—so you can decide which one is the right fit for your space.
What Is Plaster?
Plaster is a traditional wall finish that’s been used for centuries. It’s typically made from lime, gypsum, or cement mixed with sand and water. Applied in several layers over lath or a solid substrate, plaster creates a hard, dense, and long-lasting surface.
Key Benefits of Plaster:
- Exceptional Durability: Plaster is incredibly long-lasting and resistant to everyday wear and tear. When maintained well, plaster walls can last for decades.
- Rich, Customizable Texture: Plaster allows for a wide range of textures and artistic finishes, from smooth to ornate designs. This makes it ideal for historic homes or custom interiors.
- Superior Soundproofing: The dense nature of plaster gives it natural sound-dampening qualities, perfect for rooms where noise control matters.
Drawbacks of Plaster:
- Skilled Labor Required: Plaster application is time-consuming and requires trained professionals for a proper finish.
- Prone to Cracks: Over time, plaster can develop cracks due to house settling or temperature fluctuations.
What Is Drywall?
Drywall, also known as gypsum board or Sheetrock, is a modern building material made of a gypsum core encased in paper. It is the most commonly used wall finish in residential and commercial construction today.
Key Benefits of Drywall:
- Fast and Easy Installation: Drywall sheets can be quickly hung, taped, and painted, making it a favorite for time-sensitive projects.
- Smooth and Paint-Ready Surface: Drywall provides a clean, flat surface ideal for painting, wallpaper, or textured coatings.
- Lightweight and Cost-Effective: Drywall is lighter than plaster and less expensive in terms of both materials and labor.
Drawbacks of Drywall:
- Less Durable Than Plaster: Drywall is more vulnerable to dents and dings, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Susceptible to Moisture Damage: Standard drywall can be damaged by water and may support mold growth unless moisture-resistant types are used.
- Lower Soundproofing: Drywall does not naturally block sound as well as plaster, so additional insulation may be necessary.
Plaster vs. Drywall: Which Should You Choose?
Here’s how to decide between plaster and drywall for your home:
| Criteria | Plaster | Drywall |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Rich, traditional, customizable textures | Smooth and modern |
| Durability | High | Moderate |
| Installation Time | Labor-intensive | Fast and efficient |
| Cost | Higher material and labor costs | Budget-friendly |
| Soundproofing | Excellent | Fair |
| Moisture Resistance | Can handle moisture better with lime | Susceptible without special boards |
| Repair and Maintenance | Cracks may require skilled repair | Easy to patch and repaint |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between plaster and drywall comes down to your budget, aesthetic goals, and how you intend to use the space. If you want an elegant, historic look with better soundproofing, plaster might be the way to go—just be prepared for a higher cost and longer installation. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quick, practical, and affordable wall solution, drywall is an excellent option.
Both materials offer unique advantages and can be tailored to your interior design goals. No matter which one you choose, a well-finished wall sets the foundation for a beautiful, functional space.
AWP Home Inspections offers professional home inspection services in West Central and Central Indiana. Our team is dedicated to providing information so you can feel confident about your property’s condition. Contact us to request an appointment.