If you have ever considered a wall renovation project, you might have heard of the two most common option namely drywall and plaster. While plaster is a traditional wall finishing material that has been the number one choice of builders since time immemorial, most newer constructions homes now feature drywall. Here is all you need to know about the difference between the two wall construction materials.
Drywall
Drywall is essentially a composite material that consists of a layer of gypsum between two outer layers of thick paper. It is typically available in 4 x 8 feet panels that may be installed simply by screwing into the wall studs. You can take your pick from a variety of designs and thicknesses of drywalls to suit your requirements of aesthetics, functionality and durability. Since it is relatively easy to install, the labor costs involved with fixing a drywall are also lower. However, given the fact that it features a thin structure, drywall may not be able to serve the purpose of sound insulation as well as plaster does. On the flip side, drywall provides better thermal insulation and enhances the energy efficiency of your home.
Plaster
Plaster walls may be regarded as a traditional construction technique that is largely incorporated in vintage homes. Given its textured appearance, the plaster is often considered as a more upscale and luxurious option to notch up the high-end appeal of a home. Plaster is inherently a more labor-intensive construction technique where the workers are required to screw wooden planks into the studs and then apply multiple layers of plaster on top. Plaster is essentially a better performer when it comes to sound resistance and is a construction material to enhance the privacy of bedrooms and private living areas. However, it may not be the best option for optimizing energy efficiency around the house.
Whether to use drywall or plaster is a personal choice, but a professional can help to guide you in the right direction based on your lifestyle, budget and the functionality of various spaces in your home. Alair Homes Victoria is here to help as you make decisions about your wall finishing material and so much more when renovating your home. Call us to discuss your project and learn more.