Figuring out which kind of wall and ceiling finish is best suited to your needs is a common decision to make during most building or renovation projects.
Generally, the two most common options to pick between are plastering or dry lining, both of which come with a unique set of pros and cons which we’ll explore in more detail below.
Comparing dry lining and plastering on overall cost
The cost of dry lining a room
One of the biggest advantages of dry lining is the efficiency with which the pre-fabricated boards can be installed. The speedy nature of the process can help keep labour costs down, making it a good choice for those working on a tight budget and timeframe.
The cost of plastering a room
Since plastering can involve applying multiple layers of wet plaster, this method of finishing walls and ceilings can wind up costing more than dry lining. However, plaster does possess other benefits, including being more durable and resilient to damage in the long term, and more versatile, making it particularly useful in irregularly shaped rooms.
Comparing dry lining and plastering on time to complete
How long does it take to plaster a room?
Given that it can involve applying multiple layers, as well as the potentially lengthy drying process, plastering is seen as the more time consuming option. Despite this, many people still choose the traditional method due to its durability, versatility and the seamless finish it provides when completed to a high quality.
How long does it take to dry line a room?
A major pro for dry lining is the speed with which walls and ceilings can be covered and ready for decorating. Dry lining tends to be less of a messy process, too, meaning it also reduces on clean-up time.
Comparing heat and sound insulation of dry lining and plastering
Does dry lining offer effective insulation?
The plasterboards used in dry lining are limited in their insulation properties, and likely won’t perform as well as plaster in this department. There is, however, the option to fill the space between the board and base wall with insulation material to compensate for this.
Does plaster offer effective insulation?
While standard plaster does tend to insulate more effectively than dry lining, anyone looking to significantly improve this aspect of their building may want to consider specialist thermal plaster. There is also the option of installing thermal sheets of boards beneath your layer of plaster.
What skills are involved with dry lining and plastering?
What skills are needed to dry line a wall or ceiling?
Dry lining a wall or ceiling is a physical job that requires a high level of attention to detail. While the pre-fabricated boards are a more efficient choice than plaster, you’ll still need to measure them, and your work surface, accurately to ensure a good finish. Dry lining also requires an element of precision, especially when it comes to the jointing stage where the corners of a room come together.
What skills are needed to plaster a wall or ceiling?
Plastering is also a physical task that calls for strong attention to detail if you’re to achieve a smooth, neat finish. Patience is vital at all stages of the plastering process, from preparing the surface through to giving it the necessary time needed to dry before starting work on the next layer.
Plastering and dry lining are both effective, proven methods of finishing a room’s walls and ceilings to a high standard, and there is no right or wrong answer. Plastering, while time-consuming, is great for durability and achieving a smooth finish in a room of any shape and size. Dry lining, while somewhat restricted to standard-shaped rooms, is increasingly popular due to its speed and cost-effectiveness.
If you’re planning a project that involves either of these skills, then our Introduction to Plastering or Dry Lining courses can be a useful investment, providing you with the skills and confidence to take on the work, and future work, yourself.