Plasterboard/Wallboard - Skim or direct decorate?

Suppose a dumb question to ask plasterers, but what do you prefer and why?

Thinking of getting bevelled plasterboard and taping/filling the gap. But I have also seen people skim plasterboard. What are the pros/cons of directly decorating?

We are going for painted walls, rather than wallpaper. Can we get a decent crack-free finish without a skim?

You would be best of finishing the boards off in plaster, you will find the job gets done quicker with less mess and the surface is tougher and more durable.
The only downside to plastering the boads is waiting for the plaster to dry out, this could take a few days.
The problem with tape jointing is the dust from sanding and the repeat applications of the joint compound, also the plasterboard as it does not have a complete covering, is more vunerable to bumps and knocks.
It is highly unlikely that any cracks will appear if you do joint tape,
again you are only filling out the joints, they will be sanded down after each application of joint compound which does shrink a little, that is one reason why three application are recommend, the compound will not crack, providing it is mixed correctly and the walls are sturdy and boards fixed secure.
But your plaster should not crack either, providing the preparation is done correctly and the mixes are too.

....and you can always see the joins.

joe-90 said:

....and you can always see the joins.

Click to expand...

That depends on how good the joint taper is, but it is a common problem that a shadow of the joints can be seen, through both paint and paper decoration.

PrenticeBoyofDerry said:

joe-90 said:

....and you can always see the joins.

Click to expand...

That depends on how good the joint taper is, but it is a common problem that a shadow of the joints can be seen, through both paint and paper decoration.

Click to expand...

Exactly right - and with walls you can have all tapered edge unless very high ceilings, but celings you will have some non- tapered butt joints to feather .

Good quality plaster skim finish every time.