Natural Finish: Lath and plaster adds character and warmth with its natural, textured finish that can be painted or left as is. The benefits and drawbacks of Lath & Plaster vs Drywall are listed below The benefits and drawbacks Lath & Plaster BENEFITSĭurability: Lath and plaster is strong and durable, ideal for older homes and buildings with unique features.įlexibility: Lath and plaster can be molded into complex shapes for intricate details and unique designs. In short, Lath and plaster is superior, but drywall can perform well with soundproofing materials or thicker options. Thicker drywall options offer better insulation. Lath and plaster absorbs sound and reduces noise transmission and plaster creates an airtight seal for better insulation.ĭrywall can still provide good soundproofing and insulation with soundproofing materials. Lath and plaster provides better soundproofing and insulation than drywall. Lath and plaster have a natural look and better soundproofing, but drywall is more practical. Holes and dents are filled with joint compound, sanded, and painted.ĭrywall is less susceptible to moisture damage, reducing the need for repairs. Moisture damage makes repairs challenging.ĭrywall repairs are straightforward and can be done by homeowners or handymen. Repairing lath and plaster is difficult it requires a skilled worker to match texture. The thickness of lath and plaster walls provides improved insulation and soundproofing compared to drywall, but it also increases the cost of the project and the amount of space taken up by the walls. Thicker drywall options available, but still not as thick as lath and plaster walls. In comparison, standard drywall has a thickness of 1/2 inch or 5/8 inch. 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.
![insulation for lath and plaster walls insulation for lath and plaster walls](https://i.stack.imgur.com/zVbq3.jpg)
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.
![insulation for lath and plaster walls insulation for lath and plaster walls](https://s3-production.bobvila.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Installing_Lath_and_Plaster.jpg)
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.
![insulation for lath and plaster walls insulation for lath and plaster walls](http://www.kubepharm.com/Insulation/Cellulose-Insulation-for-Lath-and-Plaster-Walls-Holes.jpg)
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. 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.