Drywall vs Plasterboard

**Drywall vs Plaster: Key Differences**  

1. **Material Composition**  
   - **Drywall**: Factory-manufactured panels of Gypsum core sandwiched between paper facers. Common thicknesses: ½" or ⅝".  
   - **Plaster**: Wet-applied mixture of gypsum, lime, or cement with water, layered over a substrate (e.g., lath, plasterboard).  

2. **Installation Method**  
   - **Drywall**: Sheets mechanically fastened to framing. Joints taped/mudded (joint compound), sanded, and painted.  
   - **Plaster**: Multi-coat process (scratch, brown, finish coats) applied manually over lath or baseboard. Requires curing between layers.  

3. **Time & Labor**  
   - **Drywall**: Rapid installation (days); minimal skilled labor.  
   - **Plaster**: Labor-intensive, time-consuming (weeks); demands skilled tradesmen.  

4. **Cost**  
   - **Drywall**: Lower material and labor costs.  
   - **Plaster**: Higher due to manual application and specialized labor.  

5.**Durability & Performance**  

   - **Drywall**: Prone to dents, moisture damage; easy repairs.  
   - **Plaster**: Harder, impact-resistant surface; superior acoustics and thermal mass. Vulnerable to cracking.  

6. **Applications**  

 - **Drywall**: Standard in modern residential/commercial construction. 

   - **Plaster**: Historic restorations, high-end interiors, curved surfaces.  

7. **Maintenance**  
   - **Drywall**: Simple patching with joint compound. 

   - **Plaster**: Complex repairs requiring matching texture/skill.  

**Summary**: Drywall prioritizes efficiency and cost, while plaster offers durability and aesthetic refinement at a premium.