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Yes, if there is mold in your drywall mud and you then use it to build walls in your house—or if mold develops in your set drywall, like it can in hot and humid areas—it can lead to illness. Mold in your drywall (or other parts of your home) can make existing respiratory conditions or allergies worse, and the effect can be more intense for those who have existing health issues or compromised immune systems.

You can paint over plaster, but repair any damage to the plaster first, or the paint will crack and bubble. You should also prepare the surface of the plaster to accept paint, which gives your paint job the best chance of looking good and lasting a long time. Before applying the color you want, apply a coat or two of primer. Additionally, use latex paint, and choose a latex paint with a satin finish for areas with dampness, like bathrooms.

You should leave a gap between drywall sheets because they naturally expand and contract along with the building framing as temperature and humidity change. Most pro drywall installers leave a gap of about ⅛ inch between drywall sheets, allowing the sheets to expand, contract, and shift without cracking or becoming damaged. If you don’t leave enough gaps between slabs, the edges will press against each other when they expand, and the pressure can cause visible cracks.

There is no way to cut drywall without making dust, but you can reduce the amount of dust and especially the dangerous airborne particles by using manual cutting tools. Using a utility knife to score and snap your drywall will minimize dust production, and a jab saw for cutting cutouts for boxes and fixtures will generate almost no airborne dust. Even if you use these methods, you should still wear a respirator and safety goggles to avoid damage to your lungs and eyes.