Sheetrock and plaster are two very different materials used for similar projects. Both of these materials are used as ceiling finishes, covering the interior ceiling framing rafters. Plastering is an age-old technique used in conjunction with various materials for installation. Sheetrock, on the other hand, requires fewer materials for installation. Both are equally effective.
Sheetrock
Sheetrock is produced in 1/4- 1/2- and 5/8-inch sheets that are 4 feet wide and 8 and 12 feet long. These sheets are made by pressing gypsum paste between two sheets of high grade paper. Once the Sheetrock dries, the material is attached directly to the ceiling by a drywall contractor. These dry sheets are extremely durable and can withstand normal holding and installation stress. Additionally, Sheetrock is produced in waterproof sheets, which are green in appearance to denote their special application.
Sheetrock Accessories
Installing Sheetrock requires a few materials, including screws for attaching the Sheetrock, which are specially made with course threads to grab securely into the ceiling rafters; seam tape, which is stuck directly over the Sheetrock butt joints; and Sheetrock mud, which is applied over the seam tape in three coats to hide the Sheetrock butt joints.
Plaster
This paddle bit is used to mix the plaster.
Plastering requires more material installations than Sheetrock. The plaster for the application must be hand mixed from dry powder purchased in 20- and 30-pound bags. This dry plaster is added to water in a 5-gallon bucket and mixed using a paddle bit and drill. Additionally, you can choose from 15-, 30- or 45-minute drying times Once mixed, these mixtures will dry within the designated time.
Plaster Accessories
Plaster must be installed over lathing that is installed to the ceiling joists. The laths are 1-inch wide, 1/2-inch thick and up to 8 feet long. Small finish nails or screws are used to attach the lathing to the ceiling joists, with the lathing being nailed 1/4-inch apart across the ceiling from one side to the other. These wooden lathing strips are attached running across the ceiling rafters rather than along the rafters.
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