Question 1

What is the difference between dry lining and wet plastering?

Accepted Answer

Dry lining uses plasterboard fixed to studwork or dabbed onto masonry, then jointed and skimmed, while wet plastering builds up a sand and cement or multi finish coat directly onto block or brick. Dry lining is faster to dry out and is the standard approach on most new builds and refurbishments.

Question 2

Can you dry line an existing solid wall to improve insulation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, insulated plasterboard can be dot and dabbed onto solid masonry walls to improve thermal performance, particularly useful on older Hampshire properties with cold external walls.

Question 3

Do you skim over the plasterboard or leave it taped and jointed?

Accepted Answer

Both are offered depending on the finish you want. A full skim gives the smoothest paint-ready surface, while taped and jointed boards are a common lower-cost option for garages, lofts or utility spaces.

Question 4

How long before dry lined walls can be painted?

Accepted Answer

Skim coats on plasterboard dry faster than wet plaster on block, usually within a few days in a well-ventilated room, though Louis will confirm timing for your specific job.

Question 5

Can dry lining be used on ceilings as well as walls?

Accepted Answer

Yes, plasterboarding and skimming ceilings is one of the most common dry lining jobs, whether replacing an old lath and plaster ceiling or boarding a new build.

Question 6

Do you dry line new build extensions and loft conversions?

Accepted Answer

Regularly. Dry lining is usually the fastest way to get a new build extension or loft conversion ready for decoration, and Louis works alongside builders and other trades to keep the job on schedule.

Question 7

What board thickness do you use for stud walls?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the stud spacing and building regulations for the room, commonly 12.5mm standard board, with thicker or fire-rated boards used where required. Louis will specify the right board for your job.

Question 8

Can you fix cracked or bulging plasterboard joints?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cracked tape joints and bulging boards can be reset, re-taped and re-skimmed so the wall or ceiling is sound and smooth again.

Question 9

Is dry lining suitable for commercial fit-outs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dry lining is a core part of commercial fit-out work, from office partitions to shop refurbishments, and Louis fits work around your trading hours where needed.

Question 10

Do you supply the plasterboard or do I need to order it?

Accepted Answer

Materials are typically supplied and priced as part of the quote, so you do not need to source or store boards yourself.

Dry Lining in Havant and across Hampshire

Dry lining work with D.E.C typically includes:

A sample of finished plastering and building jobs

Other services we offer

Frequently asked questions about dry lining

Get a free quote from Louis today