Choosing Between Gyprock or Plaster
Plastering and Gyprock are two methods of interior building surface coverings. Of the two, Gyprock, also known as Sheetrock or Gypboard or dry wall is certainly the easiest to work with. The material comes in 1/4” -5/8” sheets either 4-feet x 8-feet or 4-feet x 12-feet for easy installation. Each piece is cut to size and nailed or screwed to a studded wall or to ceiling joists. Using a screwgun is certainly the fastest and easiest method of installation. The edge of the Gyprock is screwed to the center of the stud, so another piece can be screwed next to it. If the ceilings are high, the installers wear stilts so they can easily walk around and put up the Gyprock. One crew member measures, two carry the piece in and hold it in place and the third attaches it to the wall or ceiling with the screwgun.
Finishing the Gyprock is done with a tape about 3” wide and what is called ‘mud’, a paste like substance that, after application and sanding, makes the wall smooth and ready for painting. First each seam is covered with mud and a piece of tape is put in place running the length of each seam. Each seam must be covered completely. The tape and mud is smoothed into place with a wide blade that can cover the entire mudded surface. Each nail or screw hole is also covered with mud. After the mud is dry, it is sanded smooth. Usually three applications of mud are done before the final sanding takes place. When the wall is smooth, it is ready for paint.
Plastering is another method of finishing an interior ceiling or wall. It is a highly specialized and artistic trade, usually passed through generations of families or learned as an apprentice. Plaster can be applied in textures and intricate patterns on walls and ceilings. It was the only way of finishing surfaces until Gypboard came along, so is treasured in historic buildings. Often intricate ceiling work, medallions or moldings are done by plasters. Plasterers are called on often these days to restore the work done many years ago by the original artisans.
Plastering is certainly the more expensive choice for wall and ceiling finishing when building or renovating a house, but its beauty can be well worth it.