Drywall vs. Plaster: Which is Better for Soundproofing?

There are generally two choices when you are deciding on a material for your walls during a construction project, drywall or plaster. Each material has its own pros and cons that can make the choice between them a matter of what you prioritize. In today’s blog we will be looking at some of those pros and cons, specifically which material is better for soundproofing.

What’s the difference between Plaster and Drywall?

Plaster Walls are made from a mixture of materials that can include gypsum, lime, concrete, sand and water that is then applied in layers to a narrow strip of wood known as a lath. Applying plaster is a complicated and time-consuming process that is best performed by skilled professionals. Plaster walls are most common in buildings constructed prior to the 1950s and are known for their durability and longevity.

Drywall is most commonly made from gypsum that has been sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper. It is a popular construction material due to its low cost and ease of installation. It is available in all sorts of sizes and can be adapted to fit more creative designs than plaster.

Which is better for Soundproofing?

While both materials do provide some level of soundproofing, plaster is generally considered to be the superior material. Plaster is better for soundproofing due to the thickness of the walls and the dense composition of the plaster materials.

While Standard Drywall does provide some soundproofing, it is generally inferior to the soundproofing provided by plaster walls. This inferior soundproofing can be improved in a few ways; you can install thicker sheets of drywall which are better for soundproofing, or you can install soundproof drywall which has been specially designed to reduce sound transmission between rooms. Soundproof Drywall is a specialized building material that is made from gypsum, viscoelastic materials and ceramics to make it resistant to sound transmission. You can also make use of acoustical sealant when finishing your drywall installation, using it around outlets, light switches or any other areas where there are cracks or gaps in order to minimize sound transmission.

We hope that we have been able to show you how plaster and drywall can affect the soundproofing of your building project. If you have any questions about drywall installation services, please feel free to contact us.

Turner Bros Contractors Ltd. has been providing steel-stud framing, drywall, and acoustic ceiling services for residential and commercial applications in the Vancouver area since 1932. The company is family-run with four generations of the family represented in the business.

If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about your residential or commercial project, please call us at (604) 532-1991 or email us at info@turnerbros.ca.