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Drywall tape is made of paper, while drywall mesh is made of fiberglass or metal. Drywall mesh patches are suitable for repairing small holes in drywall, while paper drywall tape holds a crease better for corners. You need joint compound to adhere drywall tape to the wall, while mesh patches may be self-adhesive.

Drywall installation is considerably faster and more affordable than plastering. Because plastering involves applying a wet material, it’s more time-consuming, takes longer to dry, and is more prone to cracking. It doesn’t tend to be as insulative either. If you need resurfacing work done on the walls, it's not unusual for the cost of plastering to hit $10 per square foot, which is much higher than the drywall installation costs of $1.50 to $3 per square foot.

If you’re looking for good soundproofing and want a high-end look in a historic home, though, plastering may be the better option.

You should start looking for a drywall installer by choosing a local company with positive online reviews and ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Next, confirm that the professional is properly licensed using Angi’s contractor licensing tool, and ask the installer if they are fully insured. It’s a good idea to ask for recent customer references and call them to get their honest opinion about the contractor and their work. You can also ask the installer if they guarantee their work or provide a workmanship warranty.

You should wait at least 24 hours between each coat of drywall mud before sanding and adding another coat. This ensures the mud dries completely, although drying time depends on temperature, humidity, and the type of compound used. Lightweight muds dry faster, while heavier all-purpose compounds take longer. Always check for firmness and dryness before sanding or applying the next layer.