How do I know if my plaster needs replacing?

• <div><p>Plaster that sags or bulges, shows extensive deep cracks, or is crumbling from water damage or simply time may need replacement. Plaster walls can look a little “worn” for a long time before they need replacing. The only real way to know if it needs a replacement is to hire a professional to assess the condition of the plaster.</p></div>

Get matched with top plaster repair specialists in Derma, MS

Q: How long does it take to repair a ceiling?

• <div><p>How long it takes to repair a ceiling depends on the extent of the damage. Patching a small hole might only take a few minutes, while repairing a water-damaged section of the ceiling could take hours. If there are structural issues, expect your ceiling repair to take several days or longer. </p></div>

Q: Why are my walls cracking so much?

• <div><p>Your walls are likely cracking due to fluctuations in the temperature outside. Drywall tends to expand and contract when temperatures and humidity levels change, and this repeated movement can lead to cracks in your walls, particularly around door frames. If you have multiple diagonal cracks, you may want to have your <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-inspect-your-foundation.htm">foundation inspected</a>, as cracks can also be a sign of a bigger issue. </p></div>

Q: What are the differences between plaster and drywall, and which is better?

• <div><p>Both plaster and drywall are durable wall finishes, but they differ significantly in installation, cost, performance, and aesthetics.</p><p><b>Installation &amp; Cost:</b> 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.</p><p><b>Durability &amp; Performance:</b> 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.</p><p><b>Aesthetics:</b> 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.</p><p><b>Which is better?</b> 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.</p></div>

Q: Can you install drywall over plaster?

• <div><p>Yes, you can install drywall over plaster, but there are important factors to consider. While it can create a smooth, flat surface, it is often not the best approach. Installing drywall over plaster will increase the wall's thickness, which can cause issues with existing window and door frames that may no longer fit. You might also need to adjust power outlets to keep them accessible. A better, though more expensive, option is to remove the old plaster and lath entirely before installing new drywall. Drywalling directly over plaster seals in the old material, and if any problems arise later, you will need to remove both layers down to the structural beams for repairs. Given the potential complications, this job is best handled by professionals.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your plaster repair project in Derma, MS?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Plaster repair specialists in Derma

Built Better Construction, LLC

5.0(

)

Plaster - RepairPlaster - Repair - For Business

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

I am a locally owned and operated company that has over 5 years of industry experience in all phases of residential construction, in remodels, additions, handyman work and many other areas of home improvements. We enjoy building long lasting relationships with customers based off our quality work.

Response time2 days

Response rate89%

Request Quote

Unlimited Services

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Repair

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

Approved

I’m a Friendly Loyal Person. Family has Worked in Construction for many Years Currently a Contractor For Lowes Installation.20 plus years in Flooring installing.

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

At Nailed It LLC, we believe quality work and reliability still matter. We provide professional handyman and home improvement services throughout North Mississippi, including repairs, remodeling, flooring, painting, roofing, decks, porches, bathrooms, kitchens, and more. Our goal is simple: show up when we say we will, do quality work, and leave every customer satisfied. We are committed to earning your trust. Free estimates.

51 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

All In One Renovations, LLC - Home Facebook

5.0(

)

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Had All in One repair a roof leak for me. So far so good! Owner kept me informed as to when repairs would be done, and they showed up when they were supposed to. Worker took pictures and showed me what the problem was, and it was fixed in a professional manner. Thanks All in One!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over 20 years experience in the painting industry, B & B Painting Interior and Exterior Commercial is your industry expert in Leflore County. We pride ourselves on our extreme professionalism and attention to detail. Our customer satisfaction guarantee will assure you we will not leave your property until you are completely satisfied with our work. As a family owned and operated business you can trust that we will treat your home as we would treat our own. Give us a call today we look forward to working with you!

Response time5 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Busy Beavers Remodeling

5.0(

)

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Busy Beavers Remodeling, has been in business since 2017 providing the best quality construction work in the Starkville and surrounding areas. Customer satisfaction is our priority so we make sure and get the job done right. Give us a call today for your next project.

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

PG Drywall

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

FG Dry Wall, was establsihed in 2006 and provides over

Request Quote

HD Drywall Repair

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For BusinessPlaster - Repair+1 more

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Our company invites you to experience prompt service and superior attention to detail. Our customer satisfaction is our top priority. We will earn your trust for a lifetime. We believe in making all clients repeat clients. You can be assured you're in good with our company working on your home improvement project. If you are looking for a contractor that follows business practices such as promptly returning phone calls, arriving on time for appointments and following through on promises then call our reputable company today We will be the one and only contractor you'll ever need. Call us today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you!

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

We are dedicated to providing our clients with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our clients and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work and grow. Our pledge is to create successful relationships with our customers, employees and community by building trust, treating every project with the utmost integrity and exceeding expectations.

Response time8 hrs

Request Quote

Gregory Hubbard

New to Angi

Plaster - InstallPlaster - Install - For Business

Serving Derma, MS and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Over 10 years experience. We're a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and stands behind our work. We specialize in both interior and exterior residential painting projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!\n\n

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 24

Plaster Repair questions, answered by experts

How long it takes to repair a ceiling depends on the extent of the damage. Patching a small hole might only take a few minutes, while repairing a water-damaged section of the ceiling could take hours. If there are structural issues, expect your ceiling repair to take several days or longer.

Plaster that sags or bulges, shows extensive deep cracks, or is crumbling from water damage or simply time may need replacement. Plaster walls can look a little “worn” for a long time before they need replacing. The only real way to know if it needs a replacement is to hire a professional to assess the condition of the plaster.

Your walls are likely cracking due to fluctuations in the temperature outside. Drywall tends to expand and contract when temperatures and humidity levels change, and this repeated movement can lead to cracks in your walls, particularly around door frames. If you have multiple diagonal cracks, you may want to have your foundation inspected, as cracks can also be a sign of a bigger issue.

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.

Yes, you can install drywall over plaster, but there are important factors to consider. While it can create a smooth, flat surface, it is often not the best approach. Installing drywall over plaster will increase the wall's thickness, which can cause issues with existing window and door frames that may no longer fit. You might also need to adjust power outlets to keep them accessible. A better, though more expensive, option is to remove the old plaster and lath entirely before installing new drywall. Drywalling directly over plaster seals in the old material, and if any problems arise later, you will need to remove both layers down to the structural beams for repairs. Given the potential complications, this job is best handled by professionals.

The Derma, MS homeowners’ guide to plaster repairs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Plaster Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Plaster repair costs are determined by the size and type of damage. Discover why some fixes you can DIY and why some require a pro’s help.
Stephanie Mickelson
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Apply Venetian Plaster? [2026 Data]
Venetian plaster can add depth and texture to your aesthetic. Learn how much Venetian plaster costs based on factors like square footage and whether you hire a pro to help.
Mizuki Hisaka
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
How Much Does Plastering Cost? [2026 Data]
The cost of plastering walls and ceilings depends on the room size and ceiling height. Our tips can help you estimate an accurate cost.
Angi
•
Aug 27, 2026Aug 27, 2026
Plaster Repair: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a plaster repair project? Learn about the process, average costs to expect, and how to hire the right local pro to restore your walls.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Plaster Repair Professional
Finding a qualified plaster repair pro? Learn how to hire the right specialist, what questions to ask, and what to expect for your project.
Katy Willis
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
What Is Behind Your Lath and Plaster Walls?
You can find plaster walls in a lot of older homes. What’s behind these walls—whether that’s lath or calcimine—can have an impact on how long they last. Finding out the age of your house can help you determine what you’re dealing with.