Using a Magnetic Stud Finder: A magnetic stud finder uses a strong magnet to locate the nails or screws that secure the wooden studs in place.Some popular traditional methods include: Traditional methods for locating studs in lath and plaster walls are simple, low-tech, and often rely on common tools found around the home. Other wall types, including drywall or plasterboard, are not built or constituted the same way as lath and plaster walls.ĭrywall consists of gypsum plaster between two sheets of paper, while plasterboard has gypsum plaster between two cardboard sheets.įinding studs in lath and plaster walls can be trickier than finding them in drywall or plasterboard walls because of the differences in composition and construction.Īlthough you may still find the studs inside these walls using the appropriate equipment and methods, Traditional Methods for Locating Studs in Lath and Plaster Walls The plaster hardens and creates a solid surface as it cures. They are constructed of evenly spaced-out wooden laths, which are subsequently covered in a coating of wet plaster. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, lath and plaster walls were a popular wall construction method. What are Lath and Plaster Walls and How Do They Differ from Other Walls? Therefore, it is important to take the time to find the studs before you start your project. Without proper support, your items could fall and cause damage or injury. Knowing where the studs are located is crucial for ensuring that your installations are secure and safe. Studs are vertical supports in walls that provide stability and are essential for hanging heavy objects like shelves or cabinets. Older homes and buildings frequently have plaster and lath walls, but it can be difficult to locate the studs inside these walls.

12.10 Q: Can I hang something heavy on a plaster wall without a stud? The Importance of Finding Studs in Lath and Plaster Walls The Importance of Finding Studs in Lath and Plaster Walls

Lath plaster walls