Decorative Plaster vs. Wallpaper: Which Should You Choose?

Decorative Plaster or Wallpaper?

When deciding on a surface covering for an interior, this choice is one of the most common dilemmas. Both options have their advantages and limitations.

Cost Comparison

Standard wallpaper application is usually more affordable. However, with luxury or custom-printed papers the situation reverses. Techniques such as Veneziano or Marmorino require a high budget due to labour costs.

Lifespan

Well-applied decorative plaster has a life of 20–30 years and more. Wallpaper, depending on conditions of use, can last 7–15 years. In terms of the renewal cycle, plaster is more advantageous.

Ease of Change

When taste or need changes, stripping wallpaper and applying a new one is relatively easy. Changing plaster, on the other hand, is a larger-scale job.

Aesthetic Variety

Wallpaper offers endless options in terms of print, pattern and texture. Decorative plaster, meanwhile, creates a unique, handmade character in every space.

Application Process

Wallpaper application is usually completed in a shorter time. Decorative plaster techniques, due to layers and drying times, can take several days.