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The cost to skim coat drywall is $1.15 to $1.35 per square foot. Most of the cost is labor, for the necessary skills to apply the skim coat with precision using high-quality tools. This is a job better left to the professionals for the best outcomes.

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.

According to the EPA, mold grows within 24 to 48 hours if left untreated after a water leak. So unless you notice the leak and stop it right away, you only have a day or so before mold is a real concern. If you don’t notice the leak, it can take about three weeks for the mold spores to become visible. That means you’ve likely had an active mold infection for a few weeks by the time you notice discoloration.

Whether you need a drywall anchor depends on the specifics of your project, particularly what you're hanging and where. You do not need a drywall anchor if you can screw or nail the object directly into a wooden stud, as the wood provides sufficient support and stability. However, if there are no studs in the location where you plan to hang the item, you should use drywall anchors to ensure it is securely supported. For very lightweight objects, like small pictures, adhesive picture hanging strips can be a suitable alternative to anchors.