Do dry-lined walls need to be plastered?

Dry-lined walls do not always need to be plastered. One common finishing method is tape and jointing, where the plasterboard joints, screw heads and corners are covered with tape and jointing compound. After several coats have dried and been sanded, the wall can be primed and painted. The other option is to apply a thin skim coat of plaster across the entire surface. Skimming creates a continuous, traditional-looking finish and is often preferred in residential properties. Tape and jointing is generally quicker and introduces less moisture into the building. The best option depends on the standard of finish required, the quality of the boarding and the planned decoration. Both methods can produce a smooth result when completed by an experienced tradesperson.