Install Metal Lath

If you're looking to enhance your home’s exterior or interior walls, installing metal lath is a smart choice. This durable material provides a strong foundation for plaster and stucco applications, ensuring a long-lasting finish. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned pro, understanding how to install metal lath can save you time and money.

Costs for metal lath installation can vary, typically ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot, depending on the type and quality of lath you choose. While you might incur additional expenses for tools and materials, the benefits of a sturdy, well-finished surface make it a worthwhile investment. Get ready to elevate your project with the right techniques and tips for a successful installation.

Overview of Metal Lath

Metal lath serves as a critical building material, providing a base for plaster, stucco, or other masonry veneers. It ensures a robust surface for these materials to adhere to, promoting a strong, durable bond.

Definition and Purpose

Metal lath acts as an essential support structure for finishing materials, allowing for a consistent application. Its design facilitates effective adhesion, which contributes to the longevity of plaster and stucco finishes.

Types of Metal Lath

• Expanded Metal Lath: This most common type consists of cold-rolled carbon steel sheets expanded into a diamond-shaped mesh. Expanded metal lath suits both interior and exterior applications due to its strength and versatility.
• Paper-Backed Metal Lath: With paper backing attached to the metal mesh, this type simplifies the installation process. The paper backing offers an area for plaster to key into, enhancing adhesion and support.

Installation Guidelines

Orientation and Placement

Install metal lath horizontally, ensuring it's perpendicular to the framing members. This orientation aligns the diamonds of the mesh, providing an optimal surface for plaster or stucco adherence. Proper placement plays a vital role in achieving a stable and long-lasting finish.

Benefits of Using Metal Lath

Metal lath enhances both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your walls. Its features contribute to a durable and reliable finish for various applications.

Durability

Metal lath offers exceptional durability, resisting warping, cracking, and peeling over time. Its robust construction withstands environmental stressors, such as moisture and temperature fluctuations, ensuring a long-lasting foundation for plaster or stucco. When installed correctly, metal lath maintains its shape and performance, minimizing the need for repairs and replacements, thus providing long-term cost savings.

Versatility

Metal lath showcases significant versatility, suitable for various applications, including interior and exterior walls. It adapts seamlessly to different finishes, such as plaster, stucco, or masonry veneers. With options like expanded metal lath and paper-backed metal lath, you can choose the best type for your specific project requirements, allowing for a customized approach to construction and design.

Tools Required to Install Metal Lath

To install metal lath effectively, you'll need a combination of essential tools and safety gear to ensure a smooth installation process.

Essential Tools

• Metal Cutting Tools: Standard aviation shears or metal cutting scissors cut and notch metal lath effectively. A circular saw equipped with a metal cutting blade cuts lath to your desired lengths.
• Fastening Tools: Choose fastening tools based on the substrate you've selected. Options include:
• Powder actuated fasteners for concrete or concrete block.
• 11 gauge, 1-1/2 inch nails (or roofing nails) for securing lath to wood framing.
• 14 gauge, 3/4 inch crown staples for use with sheathing on wood framing.
• Self-drilling, self-tapping #12 x 3/4 inch wafer head screws for attaching lath to metal framing.
• Wire Ties: Use 18-gauge wire ties to secure lath at edges, ends, and laps between framing members, ensuring proper support.
• Hammer and Nails: A hammer and appropriate nails are essential for securing lath to wood framing and other substrates.

• Safety Goggles: Protect your eyes from metal debris while cutting and installing lath.
• Work Gloves: Wear durable work gloves to prevent cuts and ensure a firm grip on tools and materials.
• Dust Mask: Use a dust mask to avoid inhaling metal dust during installation.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Wear steel-toed boots for added protection against heavy materials and tools.

Step-by-Step Guide to Install Metal Lath

Follow these detailed steps to ensure a successful metal lath installation, from surface preparation to finishing touches.

Preparation of the Surface

Proper surface preparation is vital for a successful metal lath installation.

• Ensure the substrate is secure and level: Check that the wall substrate—wood framing, concrete, or metal framing—is stable and uniformly leveled. This stability supports the metal lath effectively.
• Install weather-resistant barrier (WRB) if necessary: Assess if a weather-resistant barrier is required based on your application. If included, confirm that the WRB does not impede the metal lath installation process.
• Apply weep screed at the base: Install weep screed at the wall's base before placing metal lath. This installation ensures proper drainage of water, preventing moisture issues.

Installation Process

Follow these steps for the correct installation of metal lath.

• Measure and cut metal lath: Measure the area to determine the required amount of metal lath. Cut it according to the measured dimensions, ensuring the pieces match the wall size.
• Attach metal lath to the substrate: Fasten the metal lath horizontally and perpendicular to framing members. Use the appropriate fastening tools, ensuring a secure bond to the substrate.
• Secure with wire ties: Utilize wire ties to further secure the metal lath in place. Place them at regular intervals to maintain a stable installation.

Finishing Touches

Complete the installation process with these essential finishing touches.

• Inspect the installation: Conduct a thorough inspection of the installed metal lath. Look for any loose sections or areas requiring additional fastening.
• Prepare for plaster or stucco application: Ensure the metal lath is clean and free of debris. This cleanliness promotes optimal adhesion for the subsequent plaster or stucco layers.
• Follow up with maintenance recommendations: After installation, periodically check for any signs of wear or damage. Adhering to maintenance can enhance the longevity of your metal lath system.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes during metal lath installation ensures a successful and durable outcome.

Incorrect Orientation
Always install metal lath with the diamonds aligned horizontally. This orientation maximizes the adherence of the stucco mix or scratch coat to the lath. Misalignment may lead to the trowel cutting off the mud, which prevents proper keying into the back of the lath, increasing the risk of stucco dropping off.

Improper Lapping and Overlap
Ensure that metal lath sheets overlap correctly. Maintain a minimum of 1 inch overlap at the edges. Nest the ends paper to paper and metal to metal. Stagger the sheets to prevent vertical butt joints from aligning. This practice contributes to uniform stress distribution across the surface.

Conclusion

Installing metal lath is a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance the durability and appearance of their walls. By following the outlined steps and using the right tools and safety gear, you can achieve a strong and stable foundation for plaster or stucco.

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure a successful installation that lasts for years. The investment in metal lath not only pays off in terms of longevity but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your space. Embrace the benefits of metal lath and elevate your construction or renovation project today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is metal lath used for?

Metal lath is a building material used to support plaster, stucco, or masonry veneers, creating a durable and stable finish for walls. It promotes strong adhesion and enhances the longevity of the applied materials.

What are the costs associated with installing metal lath?

The installation cost for metal lath generally ranges from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. Additional expenses may arise from purchasing tools and materials needed for installation.

What types of metal lath are available?

The two main types of metal lath are expanded metal lath and paper-backed metal lath. Expanded metal lath is strong and versatile, while paper-backed metal lath simplifies installation and improves adhesion.

How do I install metal lath?

To install metal lath, prepare a secure substrate, attach a weather-resistant barrier if needed, and install the lath horizontally with wire ties for stability. Secure it to the substrate and ensure proper alignment and overlap.

What tools and safety gear are necessary for metal lath installation?

Essential tools include metal cutting tools, fastening tools, and basic hand tools like hammers. Safety gear should consist of goggles, gloves, dust masks, and steel-toed boots to protect against hazards during installation.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when installing metal lath?

Common mistakes include misaligning the diamonds, improper lapping, and not staggering the sheets. Ensure at least a 1-inch overlap at edges and align materials correctly to optimize stress distribution.