How Much Does Plastering Walls and Ceilings Cost?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Plastering costs vary based on room size, ceiling height, type of plaster, and additional design requirements. Here's a detailed summary of what to expect:

Cost

Typical Range: $1,200–$10,000.
Average Cost: $5,000.
Cost Per Square Foot:
Basic plastering: $2–$5/sq. ft.
Resurfacing: $4–$10/sq. ft.

Cost by Room Size

| Room Size (Sq. Ft.) | Minimum Cost | Maximum Cost |
|--------------------------|-------------------|-------------------|
| 200 | $400 | $2,000 |
| 500 | $1,000 | $5,000 |
| 1,000 | $2,000 | $10,000 |
| 2,000 | $4,000 | $20,000 |

Ceilings vs. Walls

Walls: Typically less expensive due to easier accessibility.
Ceilings: Add $0.50–$2.00/sq. ft.
Standard ceiling cost: $390–$900.
High ceilings or ornate designs: Up to $4,000.

Factors That Affect Cost

Materials:
Cost: $2–$10/sq. ft.
Example: 5-gallon bucket of plaster: $60–$400.
Labor:
Basic plastering: $2–$5/sq. ft.
Resurfacing or textured finishes: $4–$10/sq. ft.
Hourly rates for contractors: $60–$80/hour.
Prep Work:
Filling holes, sanding, priming: $1–$3/sq. ft.
Adds 10–30% to the total cost.
Ornamental Designs/Textures:
Add $1–$3/sq. ft. for decorative textures (e.g., lace, stucco).

Costs for Different Plaster Types

| Plaster Type | Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) | Features |
|--------------------|-------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Gypsum | $10–$11 | Smooth finish, ideal for painting. |
| Venetian | $10–$25 | Textured, classic lime-based plaster. |
| Cement | $11–$12 | Durable, used for masonry or outdoors. |
| Acoustic | $13–$14 | Sound-absorbing, great for studios. |
| Tadelakt | $15–$16 | Waterproof, rustic aesthetic for baths. |

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

| Option | Cost | Skill Level | Tools Needed |
|-------------------|---------------------|---------------------|---------------------------------|
| DIY | $100–$1,000 | Moderate to High | Trowel, float, joint knife, etc.|
| Hire a Pro | $4–$10/sq. ft. | Expert Finish | Not required. |

DIY Challenges:
- Requires specialized tools ($100–$300).
- Mistakes may require costly repairs ($10–$100/sq. ft.).
- Best for small repairs; hire a pro for entire rooms.

Additional Costs

Asbestos/Lead Paint Removal (common in older homes):
Asbestos removal: $5–$20/sq. ft.
Lead paint removal: $8–$17/sq. ft.
Historic Home Repairs: Replacing wood lath strips behind plaster.

Tips to Save Money

Bundle Repairs: Combine projects to save on labor.
Skim Coating: Opt for skim coating ($1.10–$1.30/sq. ft.) for a smoother finish.
Simplify Designs: Avoid costly ornamental textures.
DIY Prep Work: Sanding and filling cracks yourself can reduce costs.

Plastering walls and ceilings can enhance your home’s beauty and durability. For the best results, consider your budget, design preferences, and whether to hire a pro or tackle the project yourself!