Plaster or Plasterboard: Which Is Better?

Plaster walls and plasterboard or drywall are both terrific options when you need to install a modern wall. Both of these wall repair or rebuild solutions are very popular here in Melbourne. If you are renovating, you might want to know which of these options is the better pick.

Truth be told, neither of them is ‘better’ since both of these materials are true winners in their own way and when used correctly. Instead of choosing the ‘better option’, you should be focusing on the right type for your project, your budget, and the type of finish you want to achieve. Here are some of the most important considerations.

The Characteristics of Plaster

The use of plaster in buildings dates back to ancient times. In its basic form, plaster is made by mixing lime, cement, and gypsum to create a paste that can be applied over a surface. This plaster can also be moulded into shapes, so you can add decorative embellishments to walls or ceilings.

Today, there are many different variations of plaster, including silicone-based plaster – a more durable and waterproof version of the original plaster.

The Benefits

Adding a layer of plaster over your walls can offer lots of benefits. Here are some of the top reasons to choose this wall surface material.

• Dried and properly installed plaster is very durable, hard, and it damage resistant.
• The surface finish can vary from silky smooth to highly decorative with lots of patterns and details.
• Plaster can enhance the wall’s acoustic performance.
• The material is fire-resistant (more so compared to plasterboard). 

The Considerations

While plastered walls are great, they are not always the best option. Here are some important considerations.

• The installation process is complex and requires skill and a lot of time.
• Plaster can be more expensive compared to plasterboard, but the finish is more lasting and luxurious.
• The maintenance can be tough since plaster can crack. 

The Characteristics of Plasterboard

Instead of coating walls in plaster, many choose to simply install plasterboard. This type of material is also called drywall or gyptorock. It comes in sheets and is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between layers of paper.  Plasterboard is popular here in Melbourne because it is so quick and easy to install. 

The Advantages

Drywall is a well-loved building material here in Australia since it offers so many benefits. These advantages include;

• The materials are very affordable, especially compared to plaster.
• Installation is very quick since the panels are pre-made and ready to measure, cut and secure to frames.
• Drywall comes in many different types (fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, and acoustic), and they can vary in size and thickness.  This offers good versatility to builders and property owners.
• The wall material is very easy to repair or even replace when damaged.

The Considerations

While plasterboard is a favourite, there are some occasions when it might not be as functional.  Here are some important characteristics:

• Drywall is durable – but will need a lot more care in high-traffic areas.
• The walls don’t look quite as good as plaster walls.
• The surface is smooth but non-decorative.
• Regular plaster is more fire-resistant than fire-resistant drywall.

When to Get Which Wall Type

In summary, plasterboard or drywall is the better option if you are looking for a budget-friendly solution or in industries where the appearance of the wall doesn’t matter. 

Plaster, although more expensive, tends to be the better option for walls that are more visible, commercial and residential walls, and for creating eye-catching or statement walls.

Get Professional Plaster or Plasterboard Installation in Melbourne

Whether you choose drywall or traditional plaster, at We Fix Walls, we can assist with the installation or maintenance of these walls. Contact our Melbourne plaster wall company now, and we will help you choose the right wall type for your property and budget. Our team can assist with any wall fixes, replacements or builds no matter how small or large the project might be.