A dryliner (also called a dry wall installer or partition fitter) installs plasterboard-based wall and ceiling systems without wet plaster - using metal or timber stud frames for partitions, dot-and-dab adhesive for wall linings, or suspended ceiling grid systems. Dry lining is faster than traditional wet plastering, integrates insulation easily and can achieve fire and acoustic ratings that wet plaster cannot. It is the dominant wall finishing system in commercial construction and increasingly common in residential refurbishment and new build.
What they do
- Set out and build metal or timber stud partition frames
- Apply dot-and-dab adhesive to fix plasterboard directly to masonry walls
- Install insulation-backed plasterboard for thermal performance
- Fix fire-rated Fireline or Soundbloc board to manufacturer's specification
- Install acoustic partitions and ceiling systems (Part E compliance)
- Build suspended ceiling grid systems in commercial and residential spaces
- Fit access panels, movement joints and shadow gap details
- Tape, fill and finish board joints ready for decoration
- Work to manufacturer's data sheets to achieve certified ratings
- Coordinate with electricians and plumbers for services integration
When you need one
Dry lining is the preferred choice for speed and specification compliance in both commercial fit-out and residential refurbishment.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Standard stud partition (supply+fix, per sq m) | £35 - £60 |
| Dot-and-dab wall lining (supply+fix, per sq m) | £18 - £35 |
| Fire-rated partition (per sq m) | £40 - £75 |
| Acoustic partition (per sq m) | £45 - £80 |
| Ceiling system (per sq m) | £20 - £40 |
| Hourly rate | £35 - £60 / hr |
Prices include supply and fix of standard plasterboard and metal studwork. Fire-rated and acoustic systems attract a premium for specialist boards. Taping, jointing and skim finishing are typically quoted separately.
Qualifications to look for
The vocational qualification for dry lining operatives. Level 3 covers the full range of partition, ceiling and specialist board systems.
Required for all commercial site work. The specific card type (Blue skilled worker) requires an NVQ qualification.
Membership of ISCA is the key quality indicator for dry lining contractors. Find members at isca.org.uk.
How to find a reputable dryliner
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between dry lining and plastering?
Dry lining uses plasterboard fixed to metal or timber frames or directly to masonry with adhesive dabs - no wet plaster is applied to the base layer. It is faster to install than traditional plastering and is ideal for insulation-backed boards and fire-rated systems. A skim coat of finish plaster is often applied to the board surface afterwards.
Can dry lining be used for fire protection?
Yes - specific fire-rated plasterboard systems (Fireline, Soundbloc and similar products) can achieve 30-120 minute fire resistance ratings when correctly installed in partitions and ceilings. The manufacturer's specification must be followed exactly - the wrong fixing pattern or incorrect board thickness will invalidate the fire rating.
Do I need Building Regulations for partition walls?
Internal non-structural partitions generally do not need Building Regulations approval. However, fire-rated partitions as part of a means of escape route must meet Part B requirements and will need Building Control sign-off. Partitions in commercial buildings must comply with Part E (acoustic performance) and Part B (fire) depending on their location.