drywall vs plaster how to tell ?
When it comes to home improvement or renovation projects, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is what kind of walls you’re working with—plaster or drywall. This may seem like a minor detail, but trust us, it can make a world of difference when it comes to hanging artwork, installing shelves, or even just planning your renovation timeline.
The problem is, it’s easy to get these two mixed up. On the surface, they may look pretty similar, but once you start testing them, the differences become clear. Knowing whether your walls are plaster or drywall is crucial for making sure that your installations are secure and your walls don’t get damaged in the process.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 simple ways to identify plaster versus drywall, so you can tackle your next home project with confidence.
Table of Contents
1. Visual Clues: What’s the Difference in Surface Appearance?
One of the easiest ways to tell if you’ve got plaster or drywall is by simply looking at the wall. A quick visual check can give you a good starting point.
Plaster Walls
Plaster walls tend to have a more textured, sometimes even bumpy, appearance. This is especially true in older homes, where plaster was applied in multiple layers. It may feel rough to the touch, and you might even notice hairline cracks or seams in the surface—something drywall doesn’t show as clearly.
Another visual clue: if you look closely near the corners of windows, doors, or where the wall meets the ceiling, you might spot small gaps or fissures. This is a typical characteristic of plaster walls, especially in homes built before the 1950s.
Drywall
On the other hand, drywall tends to look much smoother, with a clean and even surface. The seams where the sheets of drywall meet are often covered by joint compound, but they’re usually less pronounced than the cracks you’d see in plaster. Newer drywall may even look almost perfectly seamless.
How to Tell the Difference
Take a look at the texture and the edges of your wall. If it feels rough, bumpy, or shows signs of cracks, chances are you’re dealing with plaster. If it’s smoother and more uniform, it’s likely drywall.
2. Tap on the Wall: How Sound Can Tell You a Lot
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple tap to reveal what kind of wall you’re dealing with. Sound is a surprisingly reliable indicator, and with just a little effort, you can tell whether you’ve got plaster or drywall.
Plaster Walls
When you tap on plaster, it tends to produce a more solid, dense sound. That’s because plaster is thicker and much heavier than drywall. You might hear a dull thud, which is a sign that the material is dense and solid. If you tap along the surface, you’ll notice the sound doesn’t change much, even if you tap on different spots.
Drywall
Drywall, however, has a lighter, more hollow sound. When you tap on drywall, it can almost feel like tapping on a cardboard box—there’s a slight echo and a noticeable difference in sound compared to plaster. This is because drywall is typically thinner and has a softer core, which makes the tap sound more hollow.
How to Tell the Difference
Stand in front of your wall and lightly tap on it with your knuckles or a small hammer. If the sound feels hollow and echoey, you’re probably dealing with drywall. If the sound is more solid and dense, it’s likely plaster.
3. Check the Wall Thickness: Is it Really That Different?
If you’re still unsure about whether your wall is plaster or drywall, thickness can be a telling factor. The two materials differ significantly in how thick they are, and measuring this can give you a pretty solid clue.
Plaster Walls
Plaster walls tend to be much thicker than drywall. In fact, traditional plaster can range from 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick, and in older homes, the plaster may even be applied in multiple layers. This thickness makes plaster walls feel more substantial, and it’s one of the key characteristics that sets them apart from drywall.
Drywall
Drywall, in contrast, is typically much thinner. Standard drywall sheets are usually 1/2 inch thick, though some can be thinner or thicker depending on the type. Unlike plaster, which is applied in layers, drywall is a single, flat sheet that covers the studs with less overall depth.
How to Measure
To check the thickness, you don’t need any fancy tools. Simply take a tape measure and check the thickness near a door or window frame, where the wall might be exposed. If you’re dealing with plaster, you’ll likely find it to be thicker than standard drywall. If it’s around 1/2 inch thick, it’s almost certainly drywall.
4. Inspect the Edges: Revealing Hidden Clues
If you’ve had a closer look at your walls but are still unsure about whether you have plaster or drywall, the edges of your walls may hold the answers. These areas, particularly around doors, windows, and corners, often reveal the materials underneath the surface.
Plaster Walls
Plaster tends to show signs of wear around the edges, often with visible cracks or gaps. This is because plaster doesn’t adhere to the wall studs as tightly as drywall. Over time, plaster can start to pull away slightly from the underlying lath (the wooden slats plaster is applied to), causing small fissures or uneven gaps near the edges. You might also notice areas where the plaster has chipped away or cracked, especially at the corners or around window and door frames.
Drywall
Drywall edges, however, are usually much cleaner. The seams between the drywall sheets are typically taped and covered with joint compound, giving a smooth finish at the edges. While drywall can crack over time, it’s less common to see the kind of noticeable separation or damage you’d find with plaster. The corners and edges should look more seamless, with fewer signs of wear and tear.
How to Inspect
Look closely at the edges around doors and windows, or near the top of the wall where it meets the ceiling. If you spot cracks, gaps, or slight separations from the studs, it’s a strong indicator you’re dealing with plaster. If everything appears more uniform and smooth, you’re likely looking at drywall.
5. Use a Screwdriver or Utility Knife: Testing the Wall’s Resistance
If you’ve tried all the previous methods and still aren’t sure, it’s time to grab a basic tool: a screwdriver or utility knife. A simple test like this can reveal whether you’re working with plaster or drywall.
Plaster Walls
Plaster is much tougher to penetrate compared to drywall. If you attempt to drive a screw or use a utility knife, you’ll notice that it’s harder to make a mark or create a hole. Plaster walls often require special drill bits, and you may feel resistance when trying to push into the wall with a standard tool. Additionally, if you manage to make a small hole, it will likely be much more jagged and difficult to widen.
Drywall
Drywall, on the other hand, is much easier to cut through. Using a screwdriver, you’ll find that screws go in smoothly, and if you’re using a utility knife, you’ll be able to easily cut a small incision into the surface. Drywall doesn’t offer the same resistance as plaster, and you can make quick, clean cuts without much effort.
How to Test
Take a screwdriver or utility knife and gently press it against the surface of your wall. Try to insert a screw or make a small cut. If it’s hard to make a dent or penetrate the surface, you’re likely dealing with plaster. If it’s easy to make an impression, it’s most likely drywall.
FAQs: How Can You Be Sure If You Have Plaster or Drywall?
Q: Can drywall be mistaken for plaster?
A: Absolutely! Especially in older homes, drywall can sometimes have a texture that closely resembles plaster. However, the main differences are usually in the thickness, sound, and how easy it is to penetrate. If you’re still unsure, use the tap test or check the edges for cracks or gaps.
Q: What are the common issues when working with plaster vs. drywall?
A: Plaster is much more difficult to work with. It can crack easily, is more labor-intensive to repair, and can be a challenge when hanging heavy items. Drywall is easier to work with, but it’s also more prone to damage and dents. Knowing which material you’re working with will help you take the right approach.
Q: Do I need special tools for plaster walls?
A: Yes, when working with plaster, you may need specific tools, such as masonry drill bits or special screws designed for plaster. You might also need a wall anchor designed for plaster to ensure things like pictures and shelves stay securely in place.
Conclusion
Identifying whether your walls are plaster or drywall might seem like a small detail, but as we’ve seen, it can make a big difference in your home projects. Whether you’re hanging artwork, mounting shelves, or tackling a renovation, knowing what you’re dealing with will save you time, effort, and the frustration of unexpected surprises.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide—checking the visual clues, tapping the wall, measuring the thickness, inspecting the edges, and testing with a tool—you’ll be able to easily identify your wall type. So next time you’re unsure, you’ll know exactly how to figure it out and get the job done right!