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A 50-pound mirror can be hung on drywall, but only if it has the support of strong hardware. Ideally, you can find the studs behind the drywall and attach the mirror to them; this will give your mirror better stability. Otherwise, confirm that you are using anchors appropriate to the weight of the mirrors. Another technique is to use French cleats—two pieces of wood that fit together, with one piece attached to the wall and the other to the mirror. This allows the weight to be distributed over a wider area.

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.

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.

In many cases, installing new drywall will boost your home value. Replacing old, damaged, cracked, or wavy drywall is a great way to improve the look and feel of your home, as new drywall installed by a professional shouldn’t have any imperfections. Additionally, removing old drywall means you’ll have open walls, so you can install new insulation and address exposed issues with plumbing and electrical systems running behind the walls. All of these fixes will also add to your home’s value.