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Venetian plaster is a highly durable wall finish that becomes a rock-like substance once dried, making it last longer than most other wall finishes. Its lifespan can range from decades to centuries, potentially lasting a lifetime. Key factors influencing its longevity include the quality of the initial application, whether it's properly sealed against moisture, and how the wall is maintained and treated (e.g., how often it is touched or bumped). Due to its mineral content, it can also develop a patina over time.

You may need to replace drywall because of smoke damage. If the drywall is covered in soot, you may be able to clean it, but it will require a lot of time and effort. You could spend hours cleaning the drywall only to find there is more damage and it needs to be replaced anyway. It’s usually easier and safer to remove the smoke-damaged drywall and replace it.

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.

Drying alone can take 1 to 4 hours to dry to the touch per plaster layer, but some types of plaster take several hours longer to dry. However, this doesn’t mean the job is done because plaster doesn’t fully harden until it cures, which can take a few days to a couple of weeks. It may take even longer if you’re building a new, pretty thick plaster wall. Allow the plaster to cure before painting it.