Lath and plaster walls are typically thicker than drywall walls.Ī typical lath and plaster wall may have a total thickness of 1-1.5 inches, including the wooden lath and multiple coats of plaster. Lath and plaster costs 25-50% more than drywall, but varies based on project size, labor costs, and materials. Lath and plaster is pricier due to labor-intensive installation and higher material costs, including wood lath and several plaster coats.ĭrywall is quicker and easier to install, which reduces labor costs, and its materials are less expensive. Lath and plaster is generally more expensive than drywall. Lath and Plaster vs Drywall Cost Comparison Cost Comparison The process of installing drywall is quicker and less labor-intensive than lath and plaster, and it is a cost-effective alternative for new construction projects.ĭrywall is smooth and easy to paint, but lacks natural appearance and acoustic qualities of lath and plaster. The panels are cut to size, attached to wooden studs or joists, and then finished with joint compound and paint. It consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper. What Is a Drywalls?ĭrywall, also known as gypsum board, is a common building material used to construct interior walls and ceilings. However, the installation process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and the walls can be more sensitive to moisture than modern drywall. This walls are often used in older homes or homes with unique architectural features to preserve the original character and appearance of the space. The final finish can be sanded smooth and painted or left as is, providing a natural, textured appearance. The plaster hardens as it dries, forming a solid surface. It consists of thin wooden strips (lath) attached to a wooden frame and then coated with several layers of wet plaster. You can divide the sister into pieces as needed to get around obstructions like electric boxes on the side of the stud, fire stops, etc.8.9 Q: Can I install plaster over drywall? What Is a Lath and Plaster?Ī lath and plaster wall is an older construction method used to build interior walls and ceilings. Go back and attach the sister every foot with nails. You need to use screws or a nail gun or the hammering tends to throw things out of plumb. It is easier to sister 2x2s to the sides of the stud just proud of the face and create a new plane for the drywall.Ī laser level projecting a vertical fan beam can be set up a few feet from the wall, and a length of wood marked with the desired spacing from the beam to the face of the studs.Īttach at top at correct spacing, then plumb with laser beam and attach at the bottom. Shimming studs meant for plaster work is a real PITA. Larger pieces mean less dust and less cleanup compared to breaking it all up (though this seems to be popular on the DIY TV shows.Ĭover the floor with thick plastic (the stuff in rolls) taped down at the edges (2 inch blue painter's tape), then place canvas drop clothes on the plastic to limit tears and improve footing.įor very large jobs I have even been known to anchor the drop cloth with battens nailed at the very edge of the floor (if you pull the baseboard and any quarter round the nails go into the sub-floor outside the finished floor area). If you must demo plaster wakks try and take the largest pieces you can handle from stud to stud, lath and all.
Most of the lead paint will remain firmly attached to whatever it was on, not end up in the air. Most lead paint is gloss paint, not normally used on walls but occasionally in kitchens and closets.
"Be aware that the demolition will release lots of lead paint into the air.