by Tina Hartley

Created on: September 22, 2010

Ah, plaster, drywall, what’s the difference? In fact, there is a great deal of difference between the two. Plaster should never be applied to regular drywall. This is especially true when using lime-based plaster. Gypsum board with a specially treated paper known as blue board is the proper surface to apply a veneer plaster over. This material is also sometimes known by the trade name, Imperial Board, much as drywall is sometimes referred to as Sheetrock. Sheetrock is the trade name for drywall manufactured by the United States Gypsum company.

“Blue board” is designed to stand up to the moisture presented by veneer plaster. Regular drywall, on the other hand, is designed to present with a face ready to be painted. Only the joint and fastener areas are finished with joint compound. Drywall is notorious for degrading in high moisture environments. A good soaking and you end up with mush.

There are many reasons why a homeowner might prefer veneer plaster over drywall. The finish is harder and less subjects to damage from incidental contact. A good veneer plaster has a richer look and more sound deadening is achieved. Wall paper is much easier to remove from a plaster surface without damage.

However, a veneer plaster finish done over “blue board” is simply not a job for a DIY project. The skill level required is extensive. If you are looking for cost savings and a higher quality finished product at the same time you may want to locate a plaster in advance with no objection to the homeowner hanging the board. It is the finishing that truly requires the skill.

The cost of this interior finish fluctuates wildly from one region to another. By all means, research available options prior to deciding your course of action. Drywall products have improved over the years, also. Different varieties of gypsum board are available with more resistance to mold, moisture and impact. “Fire Code” board is treated to be less combustible than regular drywall. The use of 5/8” thick drywall also improves sound deadening and resistance to damage.

When hiring a plasterer (or any contractor) make sure to check references and see examples of previous work. A veneer plaster wall is only as good as the craftsman who finished it. Performing a search for registered contractors in your area can be accomplished by visiting the attorney general’s website for your state. There is no guarantee of quality, but it is a place to start.

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