What type of plaster is generally used for ceiling?

Author: Alanna Hagenes  |  Last update: Sunday, October 5, 2025

Gypsum plaster is highly recommended for residential ceilings due to its smooth finish, easy application, and quick drying time. It's ideal for creating a clean, paint-ready surface that can easily be updated or modified. Gypsum is also lightweight, reducing stress on the building's structure.

What kind of plaster is used on ceilings?

Gypsum Plaster

Dry gypsum powder is mixed with water to form a slurry which can be applied to walls and ceilings using a trowel. Gypsum dries relatively faster – in approximately 72 hours. Gypsum is fire resistant and a thermal insulator. Gypsum plaster also is resistant to shrinkage facilitating crack-free surfaces.

What is the best plaster for ceiling repair?

Gypsum plaster is versatile and commonly used for patching interior walls and ceilings. It is ideal for filling small to medium-sized holes and cracks.

What do you use for plaster ceiling?

Plaster ceilings are made from plasterboard or also know as gypsum board. The plasterboard is a very versatile product and is not just meant for the ceiling but also for partition wall. The board is very flexible and easy to cut to shape product which is why many manufacturers produce it has a constant shape.

What is easy plaster for ceilings?

Knauf Easy Plaster is a ready-mixed lightweight patching plaster specially designed for small to large repairs to cracks in walls and ceilings. It will not shrink or crack and is ideal for filling holes up to 40mm deep with a two-coat application.

The Differences Between Plaster, Mortar & Concrete Mixes

What are old plaster ceilings made of?

Historic Ceiling Types

Solid plaster may be composed of either lime plaster (calcium hydroxide from calcined limestone mixed with sand and other additives), or gypsum plaster (calcium sulphate) and often reinforced with animal hair.

Can you just plaster a ceiling?

Today most projects will be finished with drywall and then 'skimmed' with a thin layer of plaster to create a totally smooth surface. You can plaster a ceiling in the traditional way or you can short-cut it by applying plaster to existing drywall (as above).

What material is used for plaster ceiling frame?

Plastering Ceiling Materials

Plasterboards, which are formed of gypsum or casting powder combined with fibres that keep the material together, are used to create a plaster ceiling. Typically, these planks are attached to a wood or aluminium frame. They can take on diverse forms and even bend in certain places.

Is it OK to drywall over plaster ceiling?

Although you can drywall over plaster, you will slightly increase the wall thickness by doing so.

Do plaster ceilings crack easily?

Small cracks in ceiling plaster are normal and as we've just pointed out, can happen when there's even a slight amount of natural building movement. Sometimes they're caused by cracks in ceiling paint after years of build up. You'll also find them on walls and floors. They usually aren't a problem.

What are the three types of plaster?

The most common types of plaster mainly contain either gypsum, lime, or cement, but all work in a similar way. The plaster is manufactured as a dry powder and is mixed with water to form a stiff but workable paste immediately before it is applied to the surface.

Can you buy ready made plaster?

Ready mixed plaster is plaster that does not required to addition of water to use. The plaster can be used directly out of the tub or tube. Our range of ready mixed plasters can be used on rough, smooth or tiled surfaces.

What type of plaster is generally used for ceilings?

Gypsum plaster, primarily composed of calcium sulphate, is favoured for its easy application and smooth finish. Its versatility and affordability are a popular choice for interior ceilings.

What is the best plaster for ceilings and walls?

Gypsum plaster, known for its smooth finish and ease of application, is ideal for wall surfaces. What is the recommended plaster for interior walls? The recommended plaster for interior walls is typically gypsum-based due to its versatility and ease of use.

Can you plaster over old plaster ceiling?

Plastering over old plaster can be a simple process, but it is important to prepare the surface properly to ensure a successful outcome. Before beginning the plastering process, it is essential to consider the length of time the old plaster has been in place. The longer it has been there, the more porous it will be.

How many coats of plaster on a ceiling?

"I would always suggest using two coats as this gives the best finish. I wouldn't be happy leaving a job having only done a single coat of plaster."

Is plaster cheaper than drywall?

Costly: Plaster is more expensive to apply and maintain. Time-consuming: The application time of plaster is longer. Complicated application process: Plaster requires extra effort and expertise to work with. More likely to crack: Plaster cracks faster than drywall after settling due to its brittle nature.

What plaster to use on ceiling?

Gypsum plaster is highly recommended for residential ceilings due to its smooth finish, easy application, and quick drying time. It's ideal for creating a clean, paint-ready surface that can easily be updated or modified. Gypsum is also lightweight, reducing stress on the building's structure.

What material is used for a standard ceiling?

It's a flat, finished surface, usually 8-10 feet off the ground. Most commonly, they are constructed of either drywall or plaster. It's the kind of ceiling most of us have in our homes. The finish may vary, but the design and materials are usually the same.

Is plaster ceiling worth it?

Aside from aesthetic and easy installation, plaster ceilings serve many advantages and are very versatile in their performance. Some benefits are soundproofing, concealment, reduced high ceiling looks, provide warmth and are durable in terms of quality. The benefits can elevate any room!

What is a cheaper alternative to plastering a ceiling?

Drywall ceilings

Drywall finishes on ceilings are a common alternative to plaster ceilings because they are smooth, can easily be painted, and are typically less expensive.

How thick is ceiling plaster?

The recommended thickness for concrete wall plastering is between 6 mm and 12 mm. Ceilings are generally plastered with a 6 mm thick layer. Gypsum plaster undercoat thickness is typically 11 mm for walls and 8 mm for ceilings. Standard plasterboard thicknesses for ceilings range between 9.5 mm and 12.5 mm.

Can you paint straight onto plaster ceiling?

Can I paint straight onto new plaster? If you paint straight onto new plaster without a mist coat, the plaster will soak up the majority of the paint and you'll need to apply a lot more coats.

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