Plaster vs. Drywall: What’s the Difference?
By Stefan Gheorghe
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Stefan Gheorghe is the founder and CEO of Homedit.com. In 2008, he launched the platform out of his passion for interior design and home decoration.
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Plaster and drywall are two common materials used to finish interior walls. While both serve the same purpose, they differ in terms of installation, durability, aesthetics, and cost. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which is best for your project.
| Feature | Plaster | Drywall |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | Lime or gypsum + sand + water (applied in layers) | Gypsum core sandwiched between paper sheets |
| Installation | Hand-applied over lath or mesh; labor-intensive | Pre-made sheets screwed to studs; faster install |
| Finish | Smooth, seamless, or textured; flexible design | Flat or textured; uniform appearance |
| Durability | Harder surface, more crack-prone | Softer surface, easier to dent or damage |
| Soundproofing | Better due to wall thickness | Moderate |
| Insulation | Slightly better thermal and acoustic insulation | Good, especially with insulation behind |
| Fire Resistance | High (burns slower) | Standard fire resistance |
| Repair Difficulty | Harder; often requires a professional | Easier DIY repair with patch kits |
| Cost (Installed) | $2 – $10 per sq. ft. | $1 – $3 per sq. ft. |
| DIY Friendly | Not recommended | Yes |
| Best Use | Historic restorations, high-end interiors | Standard modern construction |
Plaster is applied wet over wood lath or metal mesh in multiple coats. It requires more time, skill, and curing.
Drywall consists of gypsum boards screwed into studs, then finished with joint compound over seams.
Plaster
Pros:
- Superior soundproofing and fire resistance
- High-end finish with custom textures and curves
- Long-lasting when installed correctly
Cons:
- Expensive to install
- Time-consuming and labor-intensive
- Can crack with home movement
Drywall
Pros:
- Affordable and widely available
- Easy to install and repair
- Compatible with modern construction standards
Cons:
- Less durable than plaster
- Visible seams if not finished well
- Limited design flexibility
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose plaster if you want a premium, traditional finish or are restoring a historic home.
Choose drywall for cost-efficiency, faster installation, and easier maintenance in modern builds.