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Although they have similar applications, spackle and joint compound are not the same. Their primary differences lie in their composition, consistency, and ideal use cases.

Spackle is composed of gypsum and binding agents, making it thicker than joint compound. It dries quickly and is easy to sand, which makes it ideal for small wall repair projects like filling nail holes or patching minor damage.

Joint compound, also known as drywall mud, consists of limestone and gypsum. It is primarily used for large-scale projects, such as taping and finishing the seams on newly installed drywall. It tends to shrink more than spackle and can be more difficult to spread.

While both products can be used to fill small depressions and cracks, spackle cannot replace joint compound for taping and mudding new drywall. Conversely, you can often use joint compound for small patching jobs typically done with spackle.

With its breathability and flexibility, lime plaster is among the most durable of all plaster types. It's also fire-resistant and has a proven track record, as people have been using it for thousands of years.

However, all plaster types will last for many years with the right care and treatment. Proper preparation and installation will also help ensure your plaster walls look great for as long as possible.

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.

You should stagger drywall sheets to help prevent cracking. The joints between drywall sheets are the weak spots, so if you install drywall with seams aligned, you’ll create weak lines that run across the length of the wall and extend from floor to ceiling. But when you stagger drywall, the solid sections of panels will support the joints. This can prevent seams from cracking or separating due to fluctuating temperature and humidity, vibrations from movement inside the home, and gravity.