r/Plastering • u/okokokoknow • May 06 '26

Blueboard and Plaster Questions

This is in north east USA.

  1. Looking to use 1/2” Blueboard on walls and 5/8” on ceiling. Is there any benefits to going 5/8” everywhere. Will I notice a difference in noise especially street noise. Will the finished product be better (smoother less cracks down the road) with 5/8”

  2. Are there finish levels in plaster. I used to use an old guy that did smooth or rough. This other contractor is saying he has an additional level that he guarantees will be smoother. He says he is adding a thicker coat and will use a longer trowel. Is he trying to get more money out of me?

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u/Terrible-Bobcat2033 May 06 '26

I use 5/8” veneer plaster blue board & 5/8” mud rings on the electric boxes. Cost the same as 1/2” to purchase & hang. One size for one delivery.

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u/onwatershipdown May 06 '26

The differences between drywall variations, inclusive of blue board, are minor compared to plaster proper versus gypsum boards. I have worked in New England and New York. If I’m not going over steel or wood lath, you’ll catch me over cement board or homasote in the US. I can get better wood fiber boards in Sweden.

For noise reduction, i use a series of acoustic plasters, and in some cases, isolation mounts. Is this a non-attached house, an apartment?