Old Houses- lath and plaster

This week we'll take a brief look at lath and plaster walls and ceilings.  These are typically found in older homes, whereas in newer homes the walls are covered with drywall.  Most people are familiar with drywall- it comes in sheets (sometimes referred to as sheetrock), and it is nailed or screwed to the wood studs on the interior of the home.  The seams are then taped and "mudded" (plastered) to produce a smooth, seamless wall.  OK- that's the modern construction method.  What about that older home you're interested in buying?

The old technique is called "lath and plaster", and you've probably seen the backside of walls in older homes and have some idea of the technique.  The walls have wood studs (vertical), and then have thin wood strips (lath) going horizontally.  These wood slats have gaps between them, and when the initial, or key, coat of plaster is applied, it smooshes in to fill the gaps (see video).  Once this sets, it forms a key that anchors the coat of plaster to the wall, and then a finishing coat of plaster is applied.

What you need to know about lath and plaster walls is that they tend to develop cracks over time.  These are age-related and can be exacerbated by high heat, excessive moisture, and other factors.  Cracking of the exterior coat is usually not a cause for concern since it is most often cosmetic.  The trouble comes in when the key coat begins to break down.  You'll usually notice problems on ceilings first, since gravity is trying to pull the key coat down.  Repair of the key coat is obviously a bit more involved and more expensive, but several companies in Louisville perform that service and can get your walls back to looking like new.

One thing to keep in mind:  older homes require a different type of care from what a newer home requires.  When you buy an older home, perhaps in the Highlands or Germantown, go in with the understanding that part of your ownership experience is really bound up in stewardship.  As with owning a classic automobile, owning an older home provides a certain level of pride and satisfaction that you are in effect carrying the torch for awhile.  Stay on top of maintenance, and when things require repair, go with a professional.  It will cost more money in the short term but will likely save you money in the long run, and oh, what a difference in enjoyment of your home.

Contact us at HomeTeam (www.HTLouisville.com) if you need an inspection of an older home, or if you just want to talk about old houses.