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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.

Which style of corner bead you choose—whether metal or paper-faced—depends on your preference and if you’re comfortable using metal-cutting tools and a hammer. Metal bead offers superior strength and durability but its installation is slightly more involved. We’d say for most cases, it’s better to use metal bead but if you’re not comfortable working with metal, paper-faced bead will work just fine. 

Look for flaking paint or air bubbles that burst and then flake away. Paint will begin to flake after being exposed to minimal moisture or water, so it’s a good indicator of any water damage. If you notice your paint starting to flake, feel the plaster underneath to see if it is soft or damp.

Plastering and skimming are two different techniques for finishing walls. Plastering involves applying a thick layer of a plaster mixture—typically containing gypsum, lime, cement, sand, and water—to create a new surface. This process often requires multiple coats and is used for repairing significant damage or creating decorative textures. Skimming, on the other hand, is a technique that involves applying a thin layer of drywall compound or joint compound over an existing surface to smooth it out, covering minor imperfections, small cracks, or uneven textures for a polished look. Plastering is generally more costly and labor-intensive than skimming. Although some people use the terms interchangeably, they refer to different processes and materials.