Get matched with top drywall insulation pros in Longboat Key, FL

The two most common drywall thicknesses for ceilings are 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch. For most standard residential applications, 1/2-inch drywall is sufficient and widely used. It provides adequate support and is lighter and easier to handle during installation compared to thicker sheets. However, 5/8-inch drywall is often used for specific cases where additional benefits are needed. It is heavier but provides superior sound dampening and fire resistance. You should consider using 5/8-inch drywall for ceilings in commercial buildings, between a garage and a living space, or above a finished basement to meet building codes or for enhanced soundproofing.

Knowing what causes drywall damage can help stop it before it starts. Here are some of the most common causes of drywall damage: 

• Water damage from roof leaks or leaky pipes. 

• Small holes caused by doorknobs, minor accidents, and rodent infestations. 

• Wall dents stemming from moving furniture and minor accidents. 

• Wall cracks that form from a settling foundation or seismic activity. 

• Nail pops from nails and screws in the walls. 

• Large holes that are caused by accidents with heavy objects, children and pets, or sporting equipment.

Both plaster and drywall are durable wall finishes, but they differ significantly in installation, cost, performance, and aesthetics.

Installation & Cost: Drywall installation is faster and more affordable, typically costing $1.50 to $3 per square foot. It uses premade sheets, making it a more accessible DIY project. Plastering is a labor-intensive craft that requires specialized skills, pushing costs to $2 to $10 per square foot. It involves applying a wet paste over a lath framework.

Durability & Performance: Plaster is generally more durable, longer-lasting, and provides superior soundproofing. It is also a better insulator, which can help reduce energy costs. Drywall is easier to remove for future renovations.

Aesthetics: Drywall provides a smooth, uniform surface ready for paint or texture. Plaster offers a high-end, naturally textured look that can hide imperfections and is often preferred for achieving a classic or historic aesthetic.

Which is better? The choice depends on your priorities. Drywall is ideal for those prioritizing a lower upfront cost, faster installation, and DIY potential. Plaster is the better option for a higher-end project where durability, soundproofing, and a unique, premium finish are more important than the initial cost.

If you suspect black mold is inside your walls, do not punch a hole in the drywall yourself to look. Call a mold inspection expert to help you. Some signs of a potential black mold infestation inside the wall include an unexplained musty, damp smell. Some people liken it to rotting vegetables. You may smell it most strongly through a wall outlet. If you and your family are experiencing constant coughing or symptoms that feel like an unexplained allergy, it could indicate black mold behind a wall.