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While you can put new drywall over old drywall, it’s not always the best option. In some cases, drywalling over drywall can make it harder to find wires and pipes behind your walls and conceal more serious problems with your walls. It can also make the room smaller. On the plus side, putting drywall over drywall can improve soundproofing and insulation. Plus, it’s often less expensive than tearing down and adding new drywall.

It is more difficult to drywall a ceiling than it is to drywall a wall, but not so hard that DIYers can’t tackle it. One of the main issues with hanging drywall on your ceiling is getting it into place. Drywall isn’t light so, if you are hanging full drywall panels, you will need at least two (it’s better with more) people to hold the panel while you drill it into the ceiling as a single piece can weigh between 40 and 60 pounds and will need to be held in place for up to 10 minutes.

In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.

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.