Can you Sheetrock over lath? If you're remodeling an older home and you run into a plaster-and-lath wall, you can remove the plaster and install drywall over the laths. After securing the laths, you'll install the panels in the same way you would install them on a new stud wall. Click to see full answer.
Can you put drywall over wood lath?
Once you know that the plaster attached to the wood lath is stabilized as much as it can be, you can then start adding a new drywall over the top of the plaster. To do this, you’ll need the following tools:
How to fix cracked plaster lath?
Make sure you use plaster screws to secure the plaster properly. These screws have special fittings that eliminate the chance of the plaster cracking. If you see any crumbling plaster hanging from the lath, be sure to scrape it off. You’ll then want to use a piece of drywall to fill the empty space.
How to attach plaster to wood lath strips?
Because a sturdy substrate is required to attach drywall properly, it’s essential that you fasten any loose plaster to the wood lath strips. Make sure you use plaster screws to secure the plaster properly. These screws have special fittings that eliminate the chance of the plaster cracking.
What are lath and plaster slats?
Laths are the wood slats that run perpendicular to the joists. Thickness of the plaster varies, so be sure the screws are long enough to go through the plaster and lath. Locate joists.
Can you cover plaster lath with drywall?
Once you know that the plaster attached to the wood lath is stabilized as much as it can be, you can then start adding a new drywall over the top of the plaster. To do this, you'll need the following tools: 2-inch drywall screws. ½ inch thick drywall boards (either 4-by-8 or 4-by-12 sheets)
Should you remove lath before drywall?
Your only insulation option is going to be blown-in insulation. Therefore, if you really want to replace your lath and plaster walls with drywall, then you need to remove the plaster walls completely down to the studs. Then, you'll replace it with drywall.
How do you hang drywall over lath and plaster?
0:284:56Drywall over Plaster and Lath, Laminating drywall, tapconsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI've got to put drywall. On top of it you want to make sure it's secure so our joints don't crack.MoreI've got to put drywall. On top of it you want to make sure it's secure so our joints don't crack. This won't even cook some more shaving under here.
Should I replace my lath and plaster with drywall?
Since plaster is considered a higher quality material than drywall anyway, it should not be replaced with drywall in most situations. The one exception is if you're pulling down the walls to replace the plumbing and electrical systems anyway. In that case, it makes sense to replace with drywall.
Can you board over lath and plaster?
To be done properly the lath and plaster ceiling really needs to be pulled down and re-boarded directly on to the ceiling joists with 12.5mm plasterboards. You must however make sure the artex on the ceiling does not have any asbestos in it as pre 1980 may very well be artex that used asbestos.
Can you skim over lath and plaster?
You can board over it, but you should be aware that there is a lot of weight in these ceilings and the plaster can be up to an inch thick. You really don't want to be underneath it if a chunk of that comes down.
How do you cover a lath and plaster ceiling?
3:507:58How to Patch a Plaster and Lath Ceiling | Ask This Old HouseYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd cut the patch to fit the hole. And the patch is made of 3 8 drywall the thickness of the plasterMoreAnd cut the patch to fit the hole. And the patch is made of 3 8 drywall the thickness of the plaster on the ceiling. Perfect i'll attach it with some inches 5 8 drywall screws.
Can drywall be hung over plaster ceiling?
Hanging drywall over old plaster is very common. If the existing strapping is securely fastened to the ceiling, you should be able to hang sheetrock. I use 3/8" rock all the time over plaster walls and ceilings. The weight is not an issue.
How much does it cost to remove plaster and lath?
The national average materials cost to remove lath and plaster is $0.38 per square foot, with a range between $0.35 to $0.40. The total price for labor and materials per square foot is $4.05, coming in between $2.55 to $5.55. A typical 300 square foot project costs $1,214.47, with a range of $764.03 to $1,664.91.
Does lath provide structural support?
The lath DOES provide additional, unnecessary structural support to your wall. Personally Id take the lath out in such a way that it could be saved and reattached after electrical is installed.
What is the best way to remove lath and plaster?
3:4111:05HOW TO REMOVE LATH AND PLASTER WALLS (CENTURY ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that you don't run into the joints of the of the wood lathe. And you just kind of run along itMoreSo that you don't run into the joints of the of the wood lathe. And you just kind of run along it and pop the plaster off so you you take off the plaster.
Can you put drywall over lath and plaster?
You can install drywall panels over your lath and plaster wall if it looks worn out or if there are unsightly cracks on the plaster due to settling. Drywall is a cheaper option for repairing and covering wear marks and cracks that occur when plaster settles, or even when lath cracks or is poorly installed.
Is lath and plaster better than drywall?
While drywalls make it easier to incorporate insulation features, plaster walls boast better in terms of soundproofing and overall visual appeal. In the end the better option depends on what you’re looking for.
How much does it cost to replace plaster with drywall?
The average cost of replacing lath and plaster with drywall is between $1,020 and $2,800 when done by a professional contractor. If it is a DIY project, the overall cost will be $1.60 to $3.80 per square foot considering the plaster and lath removal cost and the price of Sheetrock.
How much does it cost to remove plaster?
Cost of plaster and lath removal: DIY plaster removal is the cheapest option. However, professional plaster removal will cost you anywhere between $300-$1000 dollars. The costs only increase if the laths are to be removed as well.
Where to install drywall sheets?
Start installing the first row of drywall sheets from one top corner of the wall. The edges of the panels should be aligned to the center of the timber studs for proper fastening.
Why do you put lath boards aside?
Once you’re done dislodging all the lath boards, set them aside to avoid potential foot injuries from the attached nails.
How much does it cost to install drywall?
Meanwhile, DIY drywall installation is the most affordable option, with professional drywall installation costing anywhere from $1-$3 per square foot.
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How deep should junction boxes be?
One other consideration, junction boxes for outlets and switches are standardized for installing on studs with drywall, so you'll have an easier time replacing them at the 1/2" depth if you're down to the studs.
What is the meaning of "back up"?
Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience.
Can you pull drywall studs flat?
If you find it's not flat and pull the lath, you may still find the studs are not flat. For any studs that have a significant cup in, you can sister a second stud beside it to give a good nailing surface, just be sure it's not on a seam between two sheets of drywall.
Can drywall be twisted?
When laying out walls in a new build, we make sure every stud has the bow or cup facing the same direction to minimize this. And any stud that is too badly twisted is re-purposed (usually for shorter cripples under windows).
Can imperfections be seen through drywall?
Any imperfections in the wall will be easily visible through the drywall. It will form waves that conform to the surface behind it. When laying out walls in a new build, we make sure every stud has the bow or cup facing the same direction to minimize this.
How far apart should drywall be?
Push the first panel tightly against the ceiling and align both ends over the centers of wall studs. In most homes, even older ones, wall studs sit 16 inches apart. A few, however, feature studs that are 24 inches apart. A standard 4-by-8 drywall panel will fit either spacing. Advertisement.
Do you have to leave lath in when installing drywall?
The benefit of leaving the lath in place is that when you install the drywall panels, they will probably come close to the thickness of the old plaster, so you won’t have to adapt doorjambs and window casings to fit.
Can you attach drywall to lath?
You can attach drywall directly to lath. Before builders started using drywall panels to construct smooth interior walls, the standard method of wall construction involved applying plaster over wood laths.
Can you put drywall over lath?
The downside of installing drywall over lath is that you can’t access the stud spaces, so you can’t add insulation or new wiring. If you remove the laths, you can install drywall directly to the studs, but you’ll have to adapt the door frames by either inserting small strips of wood between the trim and the new drywall, or replacing the old door frames with new standard frames.
Who is Glenda Taylor?
Glenda Taylor. Glenda Taylor is a contractor and a full-time writer specializing in construction writing. She also enjoys writing business and finance, food and drink and pet-related articles. Her education includes marketing and a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Kansas.
Does lathe make the best kindling?
Lathe does make the best kindling. The reason why I did a full tear out is our home is balloon framed as many homes were this age. Firestops were put in place in the walls and all air channels were blocked. The tops of the interior walls were airsealed also. Every wall had channels for air to enter the attic and carry away heat. They are those sneaky leaks that wouldnt get detected without seeing them. Good luck with your home. I call it a labor of love even though the wife doesn't agree.
Do you shimm lath before plastering?
The old timers usually shimmed the lath before plastering. When the plaster is bad I've seen people tear the plaster off and leave the lath, then drywall over the lath to avoid re shimming and humps from the broken plaster. That lath makes good kindling though.
How thick is drywall to put on wood lath?
To do this, you’ll need the following tools: 2-inch drywall screws. ½ inch thick drywall boards (either 4-by-8 or 4-by-12 sheets)
Where to attach cut to size drywall?
Next, attach your cut-to-size sheet of drywall at the bottom of the wall. After you have inserted your 2-inch drywall screws, see if there is a gap between the upper and lower drywall sheets. Typically there will be a gap between these two sheets.
What to do if plaster is crumbling?
If you see any crumbling plaster hanging from the lath, be sure to scrape it off. You’ll then want to use a piece of drywall to fill the empty space.
What to use to clean up edges of drywall?
Once they are cut, you can use a drywall rasp to clean up the edges. When you put the panels up to attach them, a sharp knife works well to trim any edges that are too tight.
Can you put drywall over plaster?
Drywall over Plaster, the Best Methods for Fantastic Looking Walls. Over the years, plaster walls can become unattractive due to either discoloring or your basic wear and tear. Repairing your plastered walls can be quite expensive. Instead, save some money by covering them with drywall.
Where do you put drywall on the wall?
Starting at the top of the wall, position the first sheet of drywall until it’s flush in the top upper corner. You may need a helping hand to do this, so if you have a friend or family member who can help you, it’ll be a much easier job.
Do you need a tape measure to cut drywall?
You’ll need your tape measure and an electric saw to do this. It’s essential to measure and cut your drywall sheets right. This will prevent you from wasting unnecessary time, effort, and money. You’ll now want to cut holes in drywall for electrical boxes and lights.
What is a deadman for drywall?
A deadman is a T-shaped support tool built from 2x4s that goes from floor to ceiling and holds the drywall in place while you install it. You can also rent a drywall lift from a local home improvement or hardware store.
How to secure plaster to lath?
Secure sagging plaster to the lath above by using screws and plastic washers. Laths are the wood slats that run perpendicular to the joists. Thickness of the plaster varies, so be sure the screws are long enough to go through the plaster and lath.
What is plaster ceiling?
Things You'll Need. Plaster ceilings are delightful characteristics of old homes. It was the preferred material for ceilings before drywall came along in the 1950s. While restoring these ceilings can keep the aesthetic value and historic integrity of a home, drywall is called on to fix many issues.
Do you have to rip down plaster to install drywall?
There is no need to rip down the plaster and create a bigger mess when you can install the new drywall right over it. Installing drywall can save valuable time and money. Advertisement.
Who is Sunshine Menefee?
Sunshine Menefee. Sunshine Menefee began writing in 2008, drawing on her experience as an interior designer specializing in kitchens and baths. She contributes to various online publications, covering design and construction topics. Menefee has a Bachelor of Science in interior design from Pittsburg State University.
