Gillingham Drylining FAQ
What is the difference between dry lining and plastering?
Plastering is the traditional wet method: applying multiple coats of lime or gypsum plaster directly to brick or blockwork. Each coat is floated, scored, and finished by hand. The wall must be fully dry before decoration (typically 4-7 days per coat).
Dry lining uses pre-made plasterboard sheets fixed to the wall or to a frame, with joints sealed by tape and jointing compound. No wet trades, no long drying time, much faster overall.
Plastering is still the right choice for:
- Listed building work (breathable lime plaster required) - Complex curves, arches, decorative mouldings - High-end residential or heritage restoration - Small patch repairs
Dry lining is the standard for:
- New builds and extensions - Commercial fit-outs - Most residential renovation - HMO conversions - Loft conversions
In Gillingham, around 80-90% of internal wall and ceiling finishing is now dry lining. Wet plastering is reserved for heritage work and premium finishes.