How much does it cost to plasterboard a wall?
Plasterboarding (dry-lining) is priced by wall area. Enter the area below for an estimate including the skim finish.
Dry-lining explained
- 1Dot and dab
Boards are bonded to a masonry wall with adhesive dabs — quick, and it hides uneven brickwork.
- 2Stud partition
A new internal wall built from a timber or metal frame, boarded both sides — used to create or divide rooms.
- 3Finish
A plaster skim gives a paint-ready surface; boarding can be left unskimmed where it'll be tiled.
Dry-lining is the workhorse of a refurbishment — creating rooms, covering tired masonry and carrying insulation or acoustic upgrades. Pricing it per m² alongside the skim keeps the plastering budget honest.
Plasterboarding costs (indicative)
| Job | Per m² | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dot & dab + skim | £25 – £45 | Board bonded to masonry |
| Stud partition + skim | £40 – £70 | New timber/metal-frame wall |
| Board only (no skim) | £12 – £25 | Ready for tiling |
| Insulated plasterboard | £40 – £75 | Thermal/acoustic upgrade |
Includes board and a skim finish. New stud walls include the frame; openings and doors add cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to plasterboard a wall?+
Dot-and-dab plasterboarding with a skim finish typically costs £25–£45 per m²; a new stud partition costs £40–£70 per m² as it includes the frame. A 20 m² wall is roughly £500–£1,100 dot-and-dabbed.
Is dot and dab cheaper than plastering?+
For covering uneven or damaged masonry, dot-and-dab plus a skim is often quicker and cheaper than hacking off and re-rendering, and it improves the finish — but it loses a little room width.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
Cost figures shown are indicative estimates, not quotations. You are responsible for verifying all costs (obtain contractor quotes) and any figures submitted to a lender. ScopeWise is a documentation tool, not financial, tax, structural or planning advice. HMO compliance prompts are guidance only — confirm requirements with your local council, as standards and licensing vary by authority.