When it comes to building or renovating a home, walls are one of the most important parts — they shape the feel of every room. However, many homeowners have this question:
Should you go with drywall or plaster?
Both are popular wall finishes, but they’re completely different in how they’re made, how they look, how much they cost, and how long they last. You’re not alone, so don’t worry if you’re confused.
In this blog, we’ll break down drywall vs. plaster in simple language and compare them side by side. Whether you’re building new or restoring old, by the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which one is right for your home.
What’s the Difference Between Drywall and Plaster?
Let’s start with the basics:
Drywall (a.k.a. Sheetrock)
- Comes in large pre-made boards
- Installed by screwing panels into wall frames.
- The seams are concealed using compound and joint tape.
- Fast and cost-effective
- Common in modern homes (especially after 1950s)
Plaster
- Applied moist to metal or wood lath.
- Hardens into a smooth, solid surface
- Usually done in multiple layers by skilled hands
- Strong, dense, and durable
- Found in older homes or luxury finishes
Let’s Compare: Drywall vs. Plaster
We’ll go category by category to see how they stack up.
1. Installation Time
- Drywall is faster.
The installers sand it smooth, add joint compound, tape the seams, and install the boards. It’s like snapping puzzle pieces together. - Plaster takes more time.
It has to be mixed, applied in coats, and allowed to dry in stages. It needs more skill and patience.
Winner: Drywall (if you’re on a tight deadline)
2. Cost
- Drywall is cheaper — both in material and labor.
It’s the go-to choice for budget-friendly renovations. - Plaster is more expensive due to the skill required and longer install time.
Winner: Drywall (for budget-conscious projects)
3. Durability
Now here’s where things change.
- Drywall is softer and more prone to dents, cracks, and holes. It’s fine for everyday use, but not the toughest.
- Plaster is hard as a rock. Once it sets, it forms a dense shell that can last 50–100 years with care. It is resistant to daily use, bumps, and scratches.
4. Fire Resistance
- Drywall include a somewhat fire-resistant gypsum core, although in severe situations, the paper layers may still burn.
- Plaster, being thicker and denser, naturally offers better fire resistance. In fact, older plaster homes tend to hold up better during fires.
Winner: Plaster (safer in emergencies)
5. Soundproofing
- Drywall blocks some noise, but thin walls can let sound travel between rooms easily.
- Plaster is much better at keeping sound in (or out). Its dense structure acts as a natural sound barrier.
Winner: Plaster (if peace and quiet matter to you)
6. Smoothness & Appearance
- Drywall is smooth, but it can show seams or imperfections unless finished really well. It gives a modern, flat look.
- Plaster has a cleaner, high-end finish. You can go flat, textured, or even get decorative moldings with it. It’s perfect if you want style and elegance.
Winner: Plaster (for a premium look)
7. Ease of Repair
- Drywall is easy to patch. Small holes? Just spackle and sand. Larger damage? Cut a new piece and screw it in.
- Plaster repairs are trickier. It takes a skilled hand to match the texture and thickness. DIY repairs can make it worse if not done right.
Winner: Drywall (for easy maintenance)
8. Best For: Old vs. New Homes
- Drywall is ideal for modern homes. If you’re starting fresh or doing a basic remodel, drywall is efficient and cost-effective.
- Plaster shines in older homes. If you’re restoring a historical property or want that timeless charm, plaster will give you authenticity and character.
Winner: Depends on your home style!
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Let’s simplify it even more:
| Situation | Best Choice |
| You’re on a budget | ✅ Drywall |
| You want a fast renovation | ✅ Drywall |
| You’re restoring an old home | ✅ Plaster |
| You love luxury finishes | ✅ Plaster |
| You want better soundproofing | ✅ Plaster |
| You want easy repairs | ✅ Drywall |
| You need strong, long-lasting walls | ✅ Plaster |
Drywall vs. Plaster — No One-Size-Fits-All
There’s no universal winner. It all comes down to your goals, budget, and style.
Choose drywall if:
- You want a fast, affordable, and modern solution
- You’re working with a tight budget or on a new construction
- You want something easy to repair yourself
Choose plaster if:
You’re okay investing in a better finish that lasts decades.
You care about long-term durability and strength
You want your home to look unique, high-end, or historic