Best drywall pros near Rochester, NY

Yes, a fan can help drywall mud dry faster by improving air circulation and reducing humidity in the room. Drywall mud dries through evaporation, so increasing airflow speeds up this process. However, you should position the fan to blow across the room rather than directly on the wet mud. This helps prevent drying too quickly, which can cause cracking. You should also use a dehumidifier if high humidity is an issue.

Metal corners, often referred to as corner beads for square corners, are used on drywall installations to provide structural reinforcement to vulnerable outside corners. Their usage safeguards against chipping, denting, or other forms of damage, enhancing the overall durability of the wall. Metal corners also offer a precise and straight edge that facilitates sharp and clean lines, crucial for achieving a polished and professional finish.

If your home’s foundation shifts slightly over time, any seams in the drywall represent the weakest point in the wall, leading to cracks. If your home has significant changes in temperature and humidity, this can cause the drywall to swell and contract slightly, causing a crack at the weak point of the seam. If your drywall installer did a poor job securing the panels to the wall studs, this could cause a weak layout and cracks in the seams.

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.