Yes, fix it to the studs, NOT the lath
For hanging heavy objects on a lath and plaster wall, it is recommended to use toggle bolts or molly bolts as wall anchors. These anchors provide strong support and stability for heavier items.
Plaster walls do not have studs like drywall walls do. Instead, plaster walls are typically constructed using a wooden or metal lath framework that is attached directly to the wall studs. The plaster is then applied over the lath to create a smooth and durable surface.
Rock lath plaster offers several advantages over other types of plaster for wall construction. It is more durable and resistant to cracking, providing a longer-lasting finish. Additionally, rock lath plaster is fire-resistant and can help improve sound insulation in a building. Its rough texture also provides a good surface for paint or wallpaper to adhere to.
Lath and plaster is just an old type of wall finish. Like drywall is a wall finish. What the wall is constructed of underneath the lath and plaster and where it is placed in the building determine if it is load bearing or not. A lath and plaster wall could be load bearing or it might not be. IF it is an outside wall, it most certainly is load bearing. other than that, the best way to figure it out is to have a structural engineer tell you wether it is or not. Even if it is load bearing it may be possible to remove it if a beam is put up in place of the wall. Really, the best and safest way to decide is to have a engineer look at it.
No, plaster is typically not used over drywall when finishing a wall. Drywall is usually finished with joint compound and then sanded smooth before painting or applying a texture. Plaster is more commonly used on plasterboard or lath and plaster walls.
When renovating a home with lath and plaster walls, common issues to consider include the fragility of the plaster, potential for cracking or crumbling, difficulty in making repairs, and the presence of asbestos in older plaster materials. It is important to handle these walls with care and consult with professionals to ensure a successful renovation.
To use a stud finder on plaster and lath walls, start by selecting a stud finder suitable for detecting studs behind the plaster and lath. Hold the stud finder flat against the wall and slowly move it horizontally until it indicates the presence of a stud. Mark the location of the stud and continue this process to locate additional studs. Be sure to calibrate the stud finder according to the wall material for accurate results.
To install lath and plaster anchors securely, it is important to choose the right anchor type for the wall material, drill pilot holes for the anchors, insert the anchors carefully, and tighten them securely to hold the weight of the object being hung. It is also recommended to use anchors that are specifically designed for lath and plaster walls to ensure a strong and secure installation.
It is quicker and cheaper than lath and plaster, takes paint well, and can come in several finishes to resist moisture.
lath and mortar walls and ceilings have a greater flexibility than standard plaster. If you do plaster over it you firstly need to be very confident that the old mortar is sound and fully adhered to the lath. You would also have to seal the ceiling well to stop the water in the plaster from literally being sucked out of the plaster. Regarding tiles. If you are thing about ceramic tile then NO!. The weight of the tiles would pull the mortar from the lath with great ease. It is defiantly better to either plasterboard directly to the old ceiling and using dry wall screws NOT NAILS screw directly to the joist not the late you can then put a good scrim tale over the joints and plaster accordingly. The very best option however, is ...............drop the old ceiling, re-board and plaster
To effectively locate studs behind lath and plaster walls using a stud finder, start by selecting a stud finder that is suitable for use on lath and plaster walls. Hold the stud finder against the wall and slowly move it horizontally until it indicates the presence of a stud. Mark the location of the stud and continue this process to locate additional studs. Be sure to calibrate the stud finder according to the manufacturer's instructions for accurate results.
To locate studs in lath and plaster walls using a stud finder, the most effective method is to slowly move the stud finder horizontally across the wall until it indicates the presence of a stud. Start from one end of the wall and work your way across, marking the locations of the studs as you go. Be sure to calibrate the stud finder according to the wall type before starting.