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While a normal moisture level for drywall is between 5% and 12%, replacement is recommended if you get consistent readings above 17%. At this level, the drywall is likely too compromised by extensive moisture damage to be considered safe. You can replace either the entire sheet or just the affected section. If you are unsure after a visual inspection, it is best to have a contractor or water restoration provider use a professional moisture meter to get an accurate reading.

The cost to texture drywall depends on whether you want to do the work yourself or hire a professional. The cost of the drywall mud is far lower than labor costs for applying it. The labor cost to spray drywall compound onto a wall is between $0.80 and $1.50 per square foot, while you’ll pay between $1.50 and $2 per square foot for the labor to apply the texture by hand.

Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.

Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.

Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.

While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.

Yes, you can install drywall over plaster, but there are important factors to consider. While it can create a smooth, flat surface, it is often not the best approach. Installing drywall over plaster will increase the wall's thickness, which can cause issues with existing window and door frames that may no longer fit. You might also need to adjust power outlets to keep them accessible. A better, though more expensive, option is to remove the old plaster and lath entirely before installing new drywall. Drywalling directly over plaster seals in the old material, and if any problems arise later, you will need to remove both layers down to the structural beams for repairs. Given the potential complications, this job is best handled by professionals.