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Yes, wainscoting is installed directly over drywall. However, ensure the drywall is in good shape since it will support the wainscoting. If the drywall has issues, such as holes, mold, or mildew, repair them before installing the wainscoting. Alternatively, you can install a plywood substrate before attaching the trim.

You can drywall an unheated garage because the material handles cold temperatures perfectly well. There are no risks or downsides to installing drywall in a garage that is not heated, and the material stands up to moisture and other elements quite well. Drywall will protect your unheated garage's electric wires and cables and add fire protection. However, for effective bonding, you should install drywall at a temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

Yes, you can install drywall over plaster, but there are important factors to consider. While it can create a smooth, flat surface, it is often not the best approach. Installing drywall over plaster will increase the wall's thickness, which can cause issues with existing window and door frames that may no longer fit. You might also need to adjust power outlets to keep them accessible. A better, though more expensive, option is to remove the old plaster and lath entirely before installing new drywall. Drywalling directly over plaster seals in the old material, and if any problems arise later, you will need to remove both layers down to the structural beams for repairs. Given the potential complications, this job is best handled by professionals.

Whether to repair or replace water-damaged plaster depends on the scale of the damage. For small, limited areas, you can often perform a repair yourself. If you choose to paint over small patches, ensure the surface is completely dry and apply a coat of antifungal primer first to prevent mold growth. However, simply painting or plastering over the damage is only a temporary solution that doesn't address the core problem. For more extensive or long-term damage, the plaster may be compromised, and there is a risk of mold. In these cases, it is recommended to remove the damaged section of plasterboard and replace it. You may consider hiring a professional for the repair, and it's worth noting that water damage is often covered by home insurance.