When it comes to getting your walls ready for decorating, you'll need to choose between plaster or plasterboard.
Both plaster and drywall can create great results, but they each come with their own strengths and ideal use cases.
Differences Between Plaster & Plasterboard
Plaster is a wet finish applied directly to walls and ceilings, creating a smooth, seamless surface once dried and skimmed.
Plasterboard, also known as drywall, involves attaching pre-made boards to wall studs or masonry, then finishing the joints with tape and joint compound for a flat surface.
The key difference is that plaster needs more skill and time, while plasterboard is quicker and easier to install, especially for DIY jobs or large-scale drylining projects.
History of Plastering vs Drywalling
Plaster has been used for centuries, originally made from lime, sand, and even animal hair. It's evolved into gypsum-based formulas that deliver a durable and decorative finish.
Plasterboard (drywall) was developed in the early 20th century as a quicker alternative to traditional plaster. Since then, it's become a go-to for modern construction and renovation due to its speed, affordability, and flexibility.
Benefits of Plaster
A Smoother, Seamless Finish
Plaster gives walls a flawless, polished surface with no visible joins, perfect for high-end or traditional interiors.
Highly Durable
Once set, plaster is hardwearing and long-lasting, resisting knocks and general wear better than drywall.
Better for Awkward Spaces
Plaster can be applied to curves, corners, and detailed areas that plasterboard struggles to cover cleanly.
Great Airtightness
Wet plaster offers a better seal around windows, doors and tricky areas, helping to improve thermal efficiency and reduce drafts.
Advantages of Plasterboard
Fast & Easy to Install
Plasterboard is ideal for quick renovations. Boards are cut to size, fixed in place, and finished with jointing compound.
More Budget-Friendly
In most cases, plasterboard is cheaper to install, especially when you factor in labour time and drying delays.
DIY-Friendly
Drywall installation is simpler for DIYers, you don't always need years of experience — just the right tools and a bit of patience.
Easier Repairs
If you ever need to make repairs, plasterboard is quicker to patch and less messy than replastering a whole wall.
Tools Needed for Each Method
The equipment you need during the plastering process differs from the tools used when hanging drywall.
For Plastering
- Trowels (finishing and laying on)
- Plasterer's hawk
- Mixing paddle
- Buckets & water
- Skimming plaster (e.g. gypsum)
- Sandpaper or sanding float
- Protective sheeting
For Drylining
- Utility knife or jab saw
- Plasterboard screws or adhesive
- Screw gun or cordless drill
- Jointing compound (e.g. Wondertex or 4T)
- Taping knife (various sizes)
- Plasterboard tape
- Sanding pole or drywall sander
Choosing Plaster vs Plasterboard
If you're renovating a modern home and want a clean finish quickly, drywall is likely the better choice. It's ideal for speed, simplicity, and staying on budget, especially for new builds or standard-sized rooms. It's DIY-friendly, easy to repair, and gets the job done fast with minimal mess.
For heritage properties or high-spec interiors, wet plaster is hard to beat. It delivers a seamless, premium finish with no visible joins, and it's incredibly durable once cured. It's also better suited to awkward spaces like curves and corners, offering excellent airtightness and long-term performance. However, it does require skilled labour, more time, and a bigger budget.
Plaster vs Plasterboard — Comparison Table
| Plaster | Plasterboard (Drywall) | |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Seamless & high-end | Flat, clean, but with joins |
| Installation | Time-consuming | Quick & easy |
| Durability | Very strong | Moderate |
| Skill Level | Professional | DIY-friendly |
| Cost | Higher (labour-intensive) | More budget-friendly |
| Best For | Traditional or awkward spaces | New builds or simple walls |
Plaster vs Plasterboard FAQs
Is plaster stronger than plasterboard?
Yes, plaster is harder and more durable, especially for high-traffic areas. However, its resistance to cracking can vary based on environmental conditions and structural movement.
Can I hang shelves on plasterboard?
Yes, but you'll need special plasterboard fixings or wall plugs.
How long does plaster take to dry?
It can take 2–5 days, depending on thickness and room conditions.
Is plasterboard suitable for bathrooms?
Yes, but you should use moisture-resistant boards in wet areas.
Can I paint straight onto plasterboard?
You'll need to apply a mist coat primer before painting.
Do I need to skim plasterboard?
Not always — you can tape and joint it, or skim for a smoother finish.
Which is cheaper — plaster or drywall?
Drywall is usually cheaper due to faster labour time.
Can I mix plaster and plasterboard on the same wall?
Yes, but you'll need skilled blending and advanced techniques to avoid visible transitions.