For decades, lath and plaster have been employed to finish interior walls.
Plaster, when done correctly, gives a stronger finish that is more resistant to dents and knocks. It ages and degrades much like any other finish, but may crack or fracture because it is applied to lath rather than studs. Plaster may fall due to poor craftsmanship, improper application, and excessive moisture, among other factors. Meanwhile, metal lath, which is now utilized behind plaster, is more durable.
Read on to discover these four warning signs that tell you your lath and plaster walls require repair.
Sign #1: The Cracks
Cracks in walls and ceilings can emerge as plaster separates from laths. Plaster, unlike other substrates, cannot expand and contract with changing temperatures, resulting in crack formation. Cracks might be small and difficult to see, or they can be larger and look like a spider web. The plasterer used insufficient cement, which caused this fracture.
Plumbing leaks can damage plaster and cause fissures. At the same time, movement causes fractures in the ceiling or door frame.
Smaller cracks can be temporarily repaired with patching material, but if the structure is not properly maintained, they are likely to reappear and grow. Small gaps can be filled and smoothed after drying with flexible fillers, but larger portions of loose plastering must be replastered before painting or decorating.
Sign #2: The Dampness
When water permeates the substrate, bubbles emerge in the plaster. When paint blisters on plaster, moisture permeates the render from the opposite side of the wall. This is frequent on walls facing a damp environment, such as those in a restroom. If the bathroom is not waterproofed, moisture will travel through the tile grout and brickwork, causing bubbles in the plaster. When water or moisture damages the plaster, it must be removed from the wall, coated with a liquid damp-proof membrane, and finished with a stabilizing primer.
Sign #3: The Sagging
Lath-and-plaster ceilings are difficult to assess, especially if they sag in different places. In cases of sagging, the plaster may be detached from the lath, and pressing on it may cause it to shift up and down.
When looking for dust and debris or a collapsed ceiling, be cautious. Ceilings in older homes can naturally sag or sink with time, thus a sagging ceiling does not automatically indicate damaged plasterwork.
If you suspect your plaster is out of date, contact a plastering expert, especially if a ceiling falls and the plasterwork hangs unsupported from the laths. Some sections may sag, but the entire area is unlikely to sag.
Sign #4: The Unevenness
Examine your home for worn surfaces. Surface imperfections may need to be smoothed. Examine the texture of your ceiling at eye level for any uneven lumps or ridges that may require a fast fix or a full repair. If your plaster problems are severe, you may need to visit a specialist.
Conclusion
Now that you know these warning signs, you must Inspect the walls and foundation of a house on a regular basis. Recognizing symptoms of needed repairs, such as cracking plaster, broken ceilings, and insufficient insulation, can help homeowners like yourself keep up with repairs and maintain your property.
It’s critical to understand home upkeep because lath and plaster repairs are time-consuming and costly. Due to cracking, blistering, or sagging, plaster and lath require quick repair or replacement. Simple repairs, if done incorrectly, might lead to major difficulties.
Are you in need of interior plaster and stucco? One Stop Plastering is a team of professionals backed by experience and expertise. We offer reliable services that are perfect for your needs. Call us today to learn more!
