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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.

When doing a DIY paint job, it can be tricky to achieve the perfect, straight line between your wall and ceiling. There are several methods, including lining it with painter’s tape and using the “cut in” brush tactic. Some homeowners choose to apply a thin line of caulk to the wall-ceiling seam to create the appearance of a perfect line.

While it’s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.

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.