Wall and Ceiling Coverings

Wall and ceiling finishes are usually attached to the structure and used to cover the internal structure and systems (plumbing and electrical) of the home.  Some basic qualities that distinguish the various types of finishes are aesthetics, ease and cost to install, resistance to water damage, and resistance to heat or fire.

In older homes, walls and ceilings were covered with plaster.  Prior to 1930, wood lath was the most common base on which to apply the plaster.  In later years, rock (gypsum) lath was used.  Wood and rock lath are comparable in quality, except wood lath is susceptible to drying out as it ages.  Metal lath is the most durable lath and is used in areas with high moisture (e.g. bathrooms) and areas that are susceptible to impact damage (e.g. corners and on door frames.)

Drywall is a pre-manufactured board of plaster that requires less skill to install and is the most frequently used material in modern construction.  It is available in various thicknesses, however, 1/2 inch is the common thickness.

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