Get matched with top drywall pros in Hurley, NM

Q: Can I use drywall primer on plasters?

• <div><p>Technically speaking, you can use drywall primer over plasters. However, oil-based primers work the most effectively on wall plasters. Meanwhile, water-based primers work just as well with drywalls. Nowadays, there are also universal primers suitable for drywall and plaster. Overall, you will be fine as long as you are using a trustworthy brand.</p></div>

Q: What is the easiest way to remove texture from walls?

• <div><p>The easiest way to remove texture from walls is the soak-and-scrape method. You&rsquo;ll need to spray a section of the wall with water and let the water soak in and soften the texture. Then, you need to scrape the texture off using a drywall taping knife. This method works best with unpainted walls since paint prevents water from saturating the textured joint compound.</p></div>

Q: How do you know if black mold is behind drywall?

• <div><p>If you suspect black mold is inside your walls, do not punch a hole in the drywall yourself to look. Call a mold inspection expert to help you. Some signs of a potential black mold infestation inside the wall include an unexplained musty, damp smell. Some people liken it to rotting vegetables. You may smell it most strongly through a wall outlet. If you and your family are experiencing constant coughing or symptoms that feel like an unexplained allergy, it could indicate black mold behind a wall.</p></div>

Q: How do you tell if a wall is plaster or drywall?

• <div><p>There are a few ways to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-tell-drywall-vs-plaster.htm">figure out if your walls are plaster or drywall</a>, but the pushpin method is probably the easiest option. To try it, choose a part of your wall where you can insert a pushpin or thumbtack without leaving an obvious mark. If it goes in easily, you have drywall. But if the wall is tough to penetrate, that&rsquo;s plaster.</p></div>

Q: What is the best plaster for ceilings?

• <div><p>Installing or repairing plaster on ceilings differs slightly from performing the same motions on a wall. You&rsquo;ll apply slightly less plaster to lower the overall weight of the ceiling. Wall texturing is common, whereas most ceilings are smooth plaster. Tough coat plaster is strong, meaning you can use less while retaining a solid surface. </p></div>

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Drywall questions, answered by experts

Technically speaking, you can use drywall primer over plasters. However, oil-based primers work the most effectively on wall plasters. Meanwhile, water-based primers work just as well with drywalls. Nowadays, there are also universal primers suitable for drywall and plaster. Overall, you will be fine as long as you are using a trustworthy brand.

The easiest way to remove texture from walls is the soak-and-scrape method. You’ll need to spray a section of the wall with water and let the water soak in and soften the texture. Then, you need to scrape the texture off using a drywall taping knife. This method works best with unpainted walls since paint prevents water from saturating the textured joint compound.

If you suspect black mold is inside your walls, do not punch a hole in the drywall yourself to look. Call a mold inspection expert to help you. Some signs of a potential black mold infestation inside the wall include an unexplained musty, damp smell. Some people liken it to rotting vegetables. You may smell it most strongly through a wall outlet. If you and your family are experiencing constant coughing or symptoms that feel like an unexplained allergy, it could indicate black mold behind a wall.

There are a few ways to figure out if your walls are plaster or drywall, but the pushpin method is probably the easiest option. To try it, choose a part of your wall where you can insert a pushpin or thumbtack without leaving an obvious mark. If it goes in easily, you have drywall. But if the wall is tough to penetrate, that’s plaster.

Installing or repairing plaster on ceilings differs slightly from performing the same motions on a wall. You’ll apply slightly less plaster to lower the overall weight of the ceiling. Wall texturing is common, whereas most ceilings are smooth plaster. Tough coat plaster is strong, meaning you can use less while retaining a solid surface.

The Hurley, NM homeowners’ guide to drywall services

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

See all articles

Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Whether you want to spruce up a few dents and dings or fix a large surface area, investing in drywall repair costs can return your walls to a smooth, flush look.
Nick P. Cellucci
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Plaster With Drywall? [2026 Data]
The cost to replace plaster with drywall can quickly add up. This guide will help you budget for this project and decide if it's worth the effort and cost.
Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Drywall a Garage? [2026 Data]
The cost to drywall a garage depends on the size, materials, labor, and more. This guide will help you budget for installing drywall in your garage.
Paige Bennett
•
May 22, 2026May 22, 2026
Can Drywall Get Wet? Here’s What You Need to Know
A small leak, flood, or high humidity can dampen your drywall. But can drywall get wet, or if drywall gets wet, is it ruined? Find out in this guide.
Lauren Bongard
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
Sheetrock vs. Drywall: What’s the Difference?
The terms drywall and Sheetrock are often used interchangeably, but one is a brand and one is a specific product. Find out which one you need in this guide.
Taylor Freitas
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
How Long Does It Take to Finish Drywall?
How long does it take to finish drywall? Get the rundown on the factors that affect the timeline of your drywall dilemma.