How Much Does Plastering Cost?

Table of Contents

    If you want to keep your plastering costs in check, it’s important to keep in mind that the price of a plastered wall is based on a variety of criteria, including the area to be covered, whether wet or dry plaster is necessary, etc.

    Whether you’re looking to reorganise your space or add aesthetic touches like a new wall, plastering is an important part of home improvement. The end result is a smooth, uniform, and long-lasting plaster coating that is ready for the next phase of the project.

    You should account for the cost of labour in addition to the cost of any materials that will be needed; it may be more cost-effective to buy some materials in bulk for the entire project rather than buying them one at a time as they are used.

    It’s important to the visual appeal, yet it can be expensive and time-consuming to accomplish. Therefore, hiring a knowledgeable specialist is important for a project’s success. But how much does plastering typically cost, and what should you look out for?

    If you want to do the plastering yourself, you’ll need to set aside anything from $500 up to $20,000, as prices vary from $25 for square metre to $50 for square metre.

    The hourly rate for plastering services usually starts at $45. The cost of repairing something little, like a hole in the wall, shouldn’t be too high. But if it’s a big job like re-plastering an entire room, you might need more time. Find a local plasterer for an accurate quote.

    how much is plaster wall melbourne

    How Much Does Plastering Typically Cost?

    The entire area to be covered, the type of plastering required, and the location of the plasterer are all major variables in determining how much a plastering job will cost (plasterboard, ornamental plaster, wet plaster, partitioning, or plaster repairs).

    Removal of the existing plaster and the addition of decorative accents may increase the final cost.

    Estimates from plasterers are frequently given in square metres to be covered.

    The time frame, the cost of labour, and the amount of supplies needed all factor into the estimate.

    Any kind of plastering job, such as drywall or solid wall plastering, plaster repairs, or drywall partitions, can be handled by a plasterer in your region. Is there a going pricing for plastering, and if so, does it vary from job to job?

    The cost of plastering will vary according to the scale of the job.

    Drywall plastering, for example, is typically less expensive than plastering on solid walls since it is faster and simpler.

    If the plasterer needs to account for extra time and materials to restore the damage, the cost of repairs may increase.

    Even older homes in Australia likely feature plasterboard walls, simplifying remodelling projects.

    It has been widely adopted as the standard and most cost-effective plastering technique by the building industry for quite some time now.

    Plasterboard is transported in rolls and sealed with adhesive tape.

    Plaster must be applied to the plasterboard occasionally as well, so that it can be smoothed out.

    The cornices are crafted from moulded plaster as well. Plaster materials with decorative components are also available and can be used to decorate the walls and ceilings as desired.

    The price of plastering must factor in not just the supplies but also the time spent applying them.

    Why Use Plasterboard?

    Plaster can be useful in many contexts, including home renovations, the sale of rental properties, and even as a favour to a friend. However, before diving in, it’s a good idea to learn the fundamentals of rendering and calculate how much it will cost to hire a renderer.

    The main benefit of plaster is that it lasts longer than other coatings for walls (such as drywall).

    When it comes to wall coverings, plaster is hard to beat because to its resilience and resistance to dents, knicks, and other forms of wear and tear.

    Plaster finishes offer many creative options and can dramatically alter the look of your walls. Those who value ecological preservation will appreciate this development.

    One of plastering’s many advantages are endless, but the price tag is anyone’s guess.

    Thanks to the assistance of the experts at Plastering Repairs Wagga, we can guarantee that this guidance will be of the utmost use to you.

    Plastering, with its potential benefits and cost savings, should be considered for your next home renovation job.

    Please contact us as soon as possible so that we can better understand your needs during the planning stages and keep the project on track and under budget.

    Alternatively, you can set up a meeting with our site service online and get comprehensive instructions on how to install Plasterboard, including what tools and materials you’ll need.

    How do I know what kind of plaster to use?

    Depending on the requirements of your project, you may want to become familiar with several types of plaster, each of which has its own benefits and drawbacks.

    • Drywall Plasterboard, more commonly known as Gyprock, is widely used in Australia due to its low cost, ease of installation, and high quality as a wall liner and divider. It is also obtainable in smoke-proof, soundproof, and fire-resistant forms.
    • Plaster that is put to walls while still wet is a mixture of cement, lime, gypsum, or other elements that dries into a smooth, durable finish. It could take anywhere from two days to seven days for wet plaster to dry, although this largely depends on the base coat. When applied while plaster is still wet, it outperforms sheetrock as a fire barrier and sound barrier.
    • Decorative plaster, also called “ornamental plaster,” can be sculpted into a variety of architectural details, such as mouldings and cornices. It has a wide range of mounting options, including ceilings, walls, and even columns.
    • Plaster made from lime is rarely used since it requires skilled application. To provide a surface that is at once permeable and durable, lime and sand are typically combined.
    • Cement plaster, made by combining cement and sand, is a gritty, greyish material. Although it produces a strong and lasting wall finish, its shrinking and breaking over time is a major drawback.
    • Gypsum plaster is easy to work with and cures to a finish that can be painted. It can’t get mildew or mould and doesn’t shrink when dried out.

    What is the going rate for plastering a room?

    Plaster looks best when applied to flat, smooth surfaces like brick or plasterboard. Plasterers typically charge by the square foot, so be sure you measure the area you want to have covered before calling them. 

    The cost of hiring a professional will vary depending on several variables, such as the nature of the surface being worked on, the dimensions of the job, and the complexity of the labour involved.

    plasterer works plastering two trowels plasterboard blue uniform

    Potential Impacts of Plastering Costs

    The cost per square metre of plastering depends not only on the material itself, but also on the size of the job and the client’s location. The ultimate price may also be affected by various factors, including:

    • If you want the contractor to remove the old plaster and dispose of it, expect to pay more.
    • Expect to pay more if the plasterer must set up scaffolding in order to reach the walls or ceilings. As a result, increased budget allocations are required.
    • Decorations – Costs will rise because this is a labor-intensive project that will require more time and the help of specialists.
    • Decisions about what to use for construction can have a significant impact on the final cost of a job, as can fads in the industry like textured plaster.

    Normal Plastering Costs

    Hard plaster is a low-cost choice for various types of home improvements, with prices ranging from $25 to $80 per square metre. It is more challenging for contractors to manage many jobs at once when using wet plaster because it can cost up to $100 per square metre and takes longer to dry than hard coatings.

    Water-based paint and wallpaper are wonderful options when looking for a cost-effective and long-lasting solution because they provide excellent coverage and durability without breaking the bank.

    Plasterers charge varying fees for a variety of services. Pricing between $10 and $20 per square metre for supply only and $25 to $50 per square metre for supply and installation is suggested by the Australian Taxation Office.

    Average Price of Plasterboard Installation

    Plasterboard installation costs anywhere from $15 to $30 per square metre, including labour and materials.

    Depending on your location, the hourly rate for plasterboard might be anywhere from $45 to $55.

    So, for less than $10,000, you can get a house with three bedrooms.

    Putting up plasterboard on a ceiling is the same price as putting it up on a wall. A more intricate ceiling takes more time and skill to produce, so you should expect to pay an extra 10-15% for it.

    Plasterboard is much easier to install than traditional hard plaster and requires fewer employees. Products are normally ordered in sheets of 2.40 by 1.20 metres before being nailed into place.

    Costs associated with covering a wall can be reduced by not having to cut and tape around any windows.

    Pricing for Drywall and Plaster Installation

    Drywall plaster has numerous applications in the building industry, including as an interior wall covering and for the creation of new walls and partitions in homes and other buildings.

    It is typically used as bracing and fastened to a wooden or metal framework using nails or screws. Most people’s mental image of “plastering” is of wet plaster, a mixture of cement, lime, or water and gypsum that is placed with a trowel while still wet.

    Additional confusion is caused by the fact that drywall also goes by the names plasterboard and Gyprock. In Australia, the most popular choice for this type of construction material is Gyprock.

    I was wondering how this product measured up against the industry standard of gypsum wallboard. In fact, they are interchangeable.

    They are all exactly the same thing; there is no distinction.

    Plasterboard is made by pressing a thin coating of gypsum plaster between two thick sheets of paper. You can also get drywall that is fireproof, has better sound absorption, or has more insulation if you need it.

    How much, then, will the services of a plasterer be required?

    There are a number of factors to consider when deciding between drywall and Gyprock®, such as:

    • The square footage of the project was specified.
    • Whether the current plaster needs to be taken down or not
    • Because of the extra work involved, installing a ceiling typically costs more.
    • It will take more time to find a solution if you have multiple windows to work with.

    Drywall with added fire and sound protection features will cost extra.

    When estimating the cost of plastering, the total square footage of walls to be covered is the primary factor.

    The price of having drywall put up can range from $35 per square foot to $90 per square foot, or more. When renting a house or room, the quoted fee is typically a flat rate that covers everything. You can also enquire about the cost of plaster repairs.

    Plastering for Decoration

    Simply said, a cornice is a moulding that runs along the very top of a structure or a piece of furniture for ornamental purposes. Despite its higher price and more complexity, the aesthetic value of ornamental plastering more than makes up for the extra work required.

    Plasterwork requires more time and effort to create than wallpaper from a wallpaper factory. And so, the price must rise.

    Pricing for cornices looks like this:

    The whole cost, including supply and installation, may be as high as $100 per linear metre. There could be an installation fee of $20 to $50 per metre of linear space.

    From $17.50 for a basic colonial cove cornice up to $25 or more for elaborate designs, the price per linear metre varies widely.

    Consider the following as you plan your budget for your plastering project:

    • Accessible Web Design
    • Measured by the number of internal and external mitres and the complexity of the cuts made,
    • To Choose Between Realistic Alternatives
    • Throw away the outdated cornice.
    • Timeframe forecast

    Price of plastering and its causes

    Size of the wall:

    • If you want an accurate quote from the plasterer, you’ll need to provide him with the measurements.
    • There is a higher demand for plasterboard and associated materials.
    • Before beginning, it is crucial to think about all of the job’s nuances.
    • For instance, if the removal of crumbling plaster before professional resurfacing can begin, the project could take longer and cost more than expected.
    • Putting on the finishing touches and trims is time consuming, but if you’re going for a high quality look or a very intricate pattern, it’s well worth it.

    Employing a Plasterer

    Don’t hire a plasterer until you’ve verified their experience and references. When doing so, some questions to ask yourself are:

    • Do you need special credentials to practise your profession?
    • Is it safe to assume that you will not leave my house unguarded while you are working in it?
    • Do you think you could offer me a ballpark figure for how long my assignment will take?
    • Can you provide a formal quote by email?
    • Do you have recommendations I can talk to?
    • Can you please provide me with some examples of your previous work?

    Does a licence for plastering exist?

    It depends on where you are.

    Even though dry and wet plastering aren’t crucial to a building’s structural stability, they still require a particular licence in some jurisdictions, such as New South Wales.

    Nonetheless, there are authorities who view both types of plastering as the same trade. Obtaining a builders licence in several places allows the holder to also plaster.

    Estimating the whole cost of a project is challenging, but it’s crucial that you take into account all of the variables.

    There are situations in which a higher quote would not necessarily indicate that you were taken advantage of, but would instead reflect the artist’s long experience, great reputation, and unyielding commitment to the quality of their work.

    People are looking for more cost-effective builders because of the current economic scenario.

    More research into obtaining high-quality employees is not necessary prior to launching an expansion project, although doing so may necessitate sacrificing quality or level of experience. In case you were wondering, yes, this is the right spot to seek for plastering jobs!

    Locating a Low-Priced Plasterer

    Due to the high expertise level required for the finishing process, the final price tag can add up quickly. Ask a plasterer for advice on how to cut costs and where to make improvements. Things to think about include the following:

    • Plastering requires the areas to be prepared by removing as much as possible and covering the rest. The expense of completing an endeavour will be reduced if it is simple.
    • It will likely be expensive to have the contractors remove the old plaster, plasterboard, skirting boards, or wallpaper. You’ll have to take care of the cleanup by yourself, so don’t be scared to get your hands dirty.
    • Plaster primer is highly recommended before putting wet plaster to a wall.
    • Don’t rush through the renovations; time estimates play a significant role in budgeting. The larger the job, the cheaper each square foot or foot of length will be. Plastering is a costly renovation project, so it may not be sensible to tackle just one room at a time.

    Keep in Mind That You Should

    It’s possible that plasterers will charge you more than their normal rate to remove the old plaster.

    There could be a surcharge if the area is inaccessible without the use of scaffolding. The cost of decorative plasterwork, like moulded cornices and elaborate patterns, may increase.

    The plasterer will need to be very skilled and take their time to get the required appearance and level of quality.

    Check to see if the plasterer you’re considering includes the cost of materials in their bid.

    The plasterer’s estimate will typically include costs for plaster and tools that the worker will need to complete the job.

    Don’t assume that the cheapest option is the best one for you.

    The plasterer’s skill level should be carefully assessed, as the finished product’s visual appeal is crucial. Before you hire someone, make sure you check their references and examine some of their previous work.

    The best way to estimate the cost of painting your home is to find out how much lath and plaster and Venetian plastering will set you back. In short, this will give you a sense of the current market price.

    Conclusion

    The cost of having a wall plastered depends on several factors, such as the size of the area to be covered, whether or not wet or dry plaster is required, etc.

    Save up between $500 and $20,000 if you plan on plastering the walls yourself. Plastering costs are highly context-dependent and will increase or decrease as the scope of the project increases or decreases. Plastering on drywall, for instance, is usually more affordable than plastering on solid walls.

    This is because plaster outlasts other wall coverings, which is its primary advantage (such as drywall).

    As it dries, gypsum plaster creates a smooth surface that can be painted.

    When cement and sand are mixed, the result is a coarse, drab-looking material known as cement plaster.

    Plastering prices are quoted per square meter and vary based on project scope and client location.

    Hard plaster can be purchased for $25 to $80 per square metre, making it a budget-friendly option for various home repair projects. Drywall plaster is used for many things in construction, such as covering existing walls or making new ones.

    In Australia, Gyprock is the product of choice for this purpose.

    Thin gypsum plaster is pressed between two heavy sheets of paper to create a plasterboard.

    Drywall installation costs range from $35 to $90 per square foot. Due to the economy’s current state, consumers are looking for more cost-effective construction options.

    Although dry and wet plastering isn’t particularly important to a building’s structural soundness, they do require a special licence in some regions.

    Consult a plasterer about cost-cutting measures and upgrade suggestions. Cost per unit of area or length decreases as work size increases. However, moulded cornices and intricate plaster patterns may become more expensive. Look into whether or not the plasterer you’re hiring will include the price of materials in their bid.

    Content Summary

    • Suppose you want to keep your plastering costs in check. In that case, it’s important to remember that the price of a plastered wall is based on various criteria, including the area to be covered, whether wet or dry plaster is necessary, etc.
    • Therefore, hiring a knowledgeable specialist is important for a project’s success.
    • Find a local plasterer for an accurate quote.
    • The time frame, the cost of labour, and the number of supplies needed all factor into the estimate.
    • The cost of plastering will vary according to the scale of the job.
    • If the plasterer needs to account for extra time and materials to restore the damage, the cost of repairs may increase.
    • Even older homes in Australia likely feature plasterboard walls, simplifying remodelling projects.
    • It has been widely adopted as the standard and most cost-effective plastering technique by the building industry for quite some time.
    • The price of plastering must factor in not just the supplies but also the time spent applying them.
    • Plaster can be useful in many contexts, including home renovations, the sale of rental properties, and even as a favour to a friend.
    • However, before diving in, it’s a good idea to learn the fundamentals of rendering and calculate how much it will cost to hire a renderer.
    • Plaster finishes offer many creative options and can dramatically alter the look of your walls.
    • One of the plastering’s many advantages is endless, but the price tag is anyone’s guess.
    • Thanks to the assistance of the experts at Plastering Repairs Wagga, we can guarantee that this guidance will be of the utmost use to you.
    • Plastering, with its potential benefits and cost savings, should be considered for your next home renovation job.
    • Depending on the requirements of your project, you may want to become familiar with several types of plaster, each of which has its benefits and drawbacks.
    • Plaster looks best when applied to flat, smooth surfaces like brick or plasterboard.
    • The cost of hiring a professional will vary depending on several variables, such as the nature of the surface being worked on, the dimensions of the job, and the complexity of the labour involved.
    • Decisions about what to use for construction can significantly impact the final cost of a job, as can fads in the industry like textured plaster.
    • Hard plaster is a low-cost choice for various home improvements, ranging from $25 to $80 per square metre.
    • It is more challenging for contractors to manage many jobs at once when using wet plaster because it can cost up to $100 per square metre and takes longer to dry than hard coatings.
    • Plasterboard installation costs anywhere from $15 to $30 per square metre, including labour and materials.
    • Putting up plasterboard on a ceiling is the same price as putting it on a wall.
    • Plasterboard is much easier to install than traditional hard plaster and requires fewer employees.
    • Additional confusion is caused by drywall also goes by plasterboard and Gyprock.
    • In Australia, the most popular choice for this type of construction material is Gyprock.
    • There are some factors to consider when deciding between drywall and Gyprock®, such as: Whether the existing plaster needs to be taken down or not because of the extra work involved; installing a ceiling typically costs more.
    • Drywall with added fire and sound protection features will cost extra.
    • When estimating the cost of plastering, the total square footage of walls to be covered is the primary factor.
    • If you want an accurate quote from the plasterer, you’ll need to provide him with the measurements.
    • Please don’t hire a plasterer until you’ve verified their experience and references.
    • Obtaining a builders licence in several places allows the holder to also plaster.
    • Estimating the full cost of a project is challenging, but you must consider all the variables.
    • Ask a plasterer for advice on how to cut costs and where to make improvements.
    • Take your time with the renovations; time estimates play a significant role in budgeting.
    • The larger the job, the cheaper each square foot or foot of length will be.
    • Plastering is a costly renovation project, so tackling just one room at a time may not be sensible.
    • Plasterers may charge you more than their normal rate to remove the old plaster.
    • The cost of decorative plasterwork, like moulded cornices and elaborate patterns, may increase.
    • The plasterer will need to be very skilled and take their time to get the required appearance and level of quality.
    • Check to see if the plasterer you’re considering includes the cost of materials in their bid.
    • The plasterer’s estimate will typically include costs for plaster and tools that the worker will need to complete the job.
    • Refrain from assuming that the cheapest option is the best one for you.
    • The best way to estimate the cost of painting your home is to find out how much lath and plaster and Venetian plastering will set you back.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Plaster

    Is It Cheaper to Plaster or Plasterboard?

    The cost of re-rendering/plaster versus a plasterboard dot and dab covering/plaster is cheaper for the plaster boarding. Also much quicker and drying out of new materials much faster.

    What Is the Likelihood of Plastering Creating a Mess?

    Plaster can sometimes create dust, but most professionals will clean this away as part of their service.

    What Types of Plastering Finishes Are There?

    There is a smooth cast finish, roughcast finish, sand faced finish, pebbledash finish and scraped finish. We recommend discussing which is best for you with your plasterer and browsing through examples of each finish. 

    When Can Plastering Commence?

    Best answered by your plasterer once all the formalities and paperwork are completed, usually immediately! A site inspection may be necessary, but most workers will begin early.

    Should I Plaster Over Plasterboard?

    If you’ve attached plasterboard or drylining, you choose to either paint or decorate straight onto the board or finish with a layer of skim plaster. The skim tends to be favoured because it provides a superior finish and adds an extra layer of soundproofing.

    Eugene M has been a fixture in Melbourne's plastering scene for over 16 years, initially starting his journey as an apprentice in the bustling construction sector. His early years on job sites across Melbourne exposed him to the rich variety of plastering work, from traditional homes in the suburbs to modern commercial buildings in the city. Over time, Eugene honed his skills, learning the art of plastering, from setting drywall to mastering decorative finishes, and quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional craftsmanship and problem-solving abilities.

    Driven by a love for the craft and a desire to share his knowledge, Eugene began documenting his experiences, challenges, and insights into plastering. This eventually led to the creation of his blog, Plastering National. Here, he combines his in-depth trade expertise with a natural talent for writing, making complex plastering concepts accessible to everyone, from DIY enthusiasts to seasoned professionals. His blog covers a wide range of topics, including how-to guides, industry trends, product reviews, and maintenance tips.

    Eugene’s transition from the physical trade to becoming a full-time blogger was fueled by his belief in empowering others through knowledge. He understands the nuances of the Melbourne property market, which allows him to tailor his advice to the specific needs of the local community. Today, Eugene M continues to serve as Melbourne’s go-to plastering expert through his writing, offering valuable insights that help homeowners and professionals alike achieve flawless plastering results.

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