Installing drywall over plaster walls is a common solution for updating older homes or repairing damaged walls while achieving a smooth and modern finish. This process not only enhances insulation and soundproofing but also provides a more uniform surface for painting or other treatments.
With the right tools, materials, and preparation, homeowners can successfully complete this renovation, improving both the aesthetic and functional aspects of their walls. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to install drywall over plaster walls.
Why Install Drywall Over Plaster Walls?
Installing drywall over plaster walls offers several compelling benefits, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to update their spaces. First, drywall provides a modern, smooth surface that is easier to paint or apply decorative finishes to compared to outdated or cracked plaster.
Additionally, it helps to cover imperfections, such as holes or uneven areas in the old plaster, giving the walls a cleaner, more polished look. Drywall can also improve insulation and soundproofing, creating a more energy-efficient and quieter home environment.
Lastly, this method avoids the mess and labor of completely removing plaster walls, making it a more practical and cost-effective solution for renovations. Whether you are aiming for aesthetic improvements, better functionality, or both, upgrading with drywall is a smart and streamlined decision.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
To successfully upgrade your walls with drywall, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Drywall Sheets: Choose the appropriate size and thickness for your project.
- Drywall Screws: For securely attaching the drywall to the studs or furring strips.
- Screw Gun or Drill: Essential for driving screws quickly and efficiently.
- Drywall Knife: For cutting and trimming the drywall to fit.
- Tape Measure: To ensure precise measurements before cutting.
- Drywall Tape: Used to cover seams and create a smooth surface.
- Joint Compound (Mud): For filling gaps and creating a finished look on seams and screw holes.
- Sandpaper or Sanding Block: To smooth out the dried joint compound.
- Utility Knife: For scoring and cutting drywall cleanly.
- Dust Mask and Safety Goggles: To protect yourself from drywall dust and debris.
Having these tools and materials ready will make the process more efficient and ensure a professional-looking result.
10 Methods How to Install Drywall over Plaster Walls
1. Inspect and Prepare the Plaster Walls
Before installing drywall, begin by thoroughly inspecting the plaster walls for any damage, cracks, or loose sections. Plaster walls can sometimes have flaking areas or deteriorated lath, which may prevent drywall from adhering properly or create an uneven surface. Remove any loose plaster using a putty knife or scraper, and repair larger cracks with a suitable patching compound.
Cleaning the surface to remove dust, grease, or debris ensures proper adhesion and prevents future issues such as bubbling or sagging of the drywall. Proper preparation lays the foundation for a smooth and stable installation.
2. Choose the Right Drywall Thickness
Selecting the appropriate drywall thickness is essential to ensure durability and proper fit over plaster walls. Standard 1/2-inch drywall is suitable for most interior walls, while 5/8-inch drywall offers extra rigidity and fire resistance. For walls that may be uneven, slightly thinner drywall can be easier to manipulate and mount. Consider the room’s requirements and structural needs when choosing the thickness, as this affects both installation and long-term performance.
3. Use Furring Strips for Uneven Surfaces
Plaster walls are often uneven, which can create challenges when attaching drywall directly. Installing furring strips—thin wooden or metal strips spaced evenly across the wall—creates a level surface to attach the drywall. Secure the strips to the studs behind the plaster using screws or masonry anchors. This approach compensates for unevenness, prevents cracking of the drywall, and allows for an air gap that can reduce noise transmission. Furring strips also make it easier to run electrical wiring or insulation behind the drywall.
4. Mark Stud Locations Accurately
Accurate marking of studs is essential for securely attaching drywall. Use a stud finder or tap along the wall to locate the framing behind the plaster. Mark each stud clearly with a pencil, as these points will guide screw placement. Proper alignment with studs ensures that the drywall is firmly anchored, reducing the risk of sagging, warping, or future damage. Precise marking also speeds up installation, allowing for smoother attachment of drywall sheets.
5. Measure and Cut Drywall Sheets Precisely
Measure the wall height and width carefully before cutting drywall sheets to size. Use a utility knife and T-square to make straight, clean cuts. Cutting drywall accurately prevents gaps, reduces the need for excessive joint compound, and ensures a professional finish. For irregular areas around windows, doors, or outlets, measure carefully and use a keyhole saw or utility knife to create precise openings. Proper measurement and cutting are critical to achieving a flush, seamless wall surface.
6. Attach Drywall to Furring Strips or Studs
Begin installing drywall sheets from the top corner of the wall, pressing them firmly against the furring strips or studs. Secure the sheets using drywall screws, spacing them approximately 12–16 inches apart along studs. Drive screws slightly below the surface without breaking the paper face of the drywall. For direct attachment to plaster where furring strips are not used, specialized masonry anchors or screws may be necessary to penetrate the plaster and secure the drywall to the studs. Proper attachment ensures stability and prevents bulging or cracking over time.
7. Tape and Mud the Seams
After all drywall sheets are installed, cover the seams with drywall tape and joint compound (mud). Apply the tape over the seams, then spread a thin layer of mud using a taping knife. Allow it to dry completely before applying additional coats to create a smooth, level surface. Feather the edges of the joint compound to blend with the surrounding drywall. Taping and mudding are essential for hiding seams, reinforcing joints, and achieving a professional, seamless finish that can be painted or textured later.
8. Finish Corners and Edges
Corners and edges require special attention to ensure durability and a clean appearance. Use corner bead on external corners to protect the drywall from damage and create sharp, straight edges. Apply joint compound over the corner bead, feathering it out to blend with the wall. For inside corners, fold drywall tape neatly and apply joint compound to secure it. Proper finishing of corners prevents cracking, chipping, or separation over time, enhancing the structural integrity and aesthetic of the wall.
9. Sand and Smooth the Surface
Once the joint compound has dried, sand the surface to remove imperfections, ridges, or bumps. Use fine-grit sandpaper and a sanding block or pole sander, working carefully to avoid damaging the drywall paper. Sanding ensures that the surface is smooth, level, and ready for priming and painting. For textured finishes, lightly sand only to remove high spots while preserving the desired texture. Proper sanding is crucial to achieving a professional-looking wall with a flawless finish.
10. Prime and Paint the Drywall
After sanding, apply a coat of primer to the new drywall to seal the surface and prepare it for paint. Primer enhances adhesion and ensures an even, consistent color when painting. Once the primer has dried, apply one or more coats of paint in the desired color, using a roller for large areas and a brush for edges and corners. Allow sufficient drying time between coats. Proper priming and painting not only provide an attractive finish but also protect the drywall from moisture and wear, ensuring the wall remains durable and visually appealing for years.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To ensure your painted drywall remains in excellent condition, regular maintenance and care are essential. Begin by dusting the walls periodically with a soft cloth or microfiber duster to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime. For any stains or smudges, use a mild soap solution and a damp sponge, gently wiping the area without scrubbing too hard to avoid damaging the paint.
Check for any signs of chipping or peeling paint and address these promptly by sanding the affected area, applying a touch-up primer, and repainting as needed. Additionally, monitor for cracks or moisture damage, repairing any issues early to prevent more significant problems. With consistent attention, your drywall will retain its aesthetic appeal and durability for years to come.
Conclusion
Installing drywall over plaster walls is a reliable way to modernize and improve interior surfaces while hiding imperfections and providing a smooth, paint-ready finish. From inspecting and preparing the plaster, using furring strips for uneven surfaces, marking studs accurately, cutting and attaching drywall sheets, to taping, mudding, sanding, and painting, each step is essential for a stable, professional result. Proper preparation, accurate measurements, careful installation, and finishing techniques ensure that the new drywall is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and ready to withstand daily wear. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to install drywall over plaster walls! We hope you found it helpful and informative.