Solid Plastering vs Dry Wall
What are the benefits of choosing plaster over drywall or Gyprock, as it is most commonly called?
Plaster is a far more durable surface than drywall. A quality plaster system will last 100 years and still look great.
When using plaster there are no unsightly seams or nail pops which are usually found in drywall.
Unlike drywall, Plaster isn’t susceptible to mould.
Unlike drywall, Plaster isn’t susceptible to white ants.
Unlike drywall, Plaster isn’t easily dented, scratched or punctured. Plaster will resist the wear and tear of the family household or work setting, and will not dent when banged into as a drywall surface will.
Plaster provides a good sound barrier because it is a bit thicker, more solid and has greater mass. Rooms that have been plastered are sound-reflective, offering a clear, crisp sound while not transmitting the sound as readily into adjoining rooms.
Plaster has a higher resistance to fire than drywall.
On the aesthetic side of things, the hand-tooled look of plaster provides more ambiance and depth to the surfaces within your rooms, versus the flat, sterility of drywall. Plaster is more adaptable to shaping and architectural details – there are no unsightly seams, corners are clean, and joints can be angular or a soft, sweeping curve.
Put simply; Plaster = Quality while Drywall = economy!
Problems with dry wall (Gyprock)
Gyprock – Prone to white ants, holes, and easily damaged. If damaged the entire panel needs to be replaced.
White ants (or termites) are a massive problem in WA and one of gyprock's biggest enemies. Solid plastering enemies = none.
Gyprock is easily damaged when wet. This picture shows the result of water damage. The mould here can be a serious hazard to your family. Solid plaster mixed with lime breaks down germs so they can’t breed!
White ant damage.
Drywall can be easily damaged, but not so easily fixed.
Fire-damaged drywall.