石膏组件包括在木材，金属传统的三个涂层体系，或岩石板条，以及更近的膏药系统，例如单板膏药。

石膏在传统的三个涂层体系是无与伦比的在它的强度和耐久性。  This system is also fire resistive and can reduce sound transmission.  Plaster must be applied in such a way that it adheres to the support surface; the support surface, in turn, must be strong enough to carry the weight of the plaster.  In the past, applying a plaster coating over a stone or masonry wall seemed to satisfy the strength and texture requirements.  However, when framed construction became popular, interior walls lacked both.  To solve this problem, thin strips of wood called lath were applied perpendicular to the framing.  This solution both strengthened the wall and created a uniform surface to which the plaster could adhere.