What lath and plaster means
Lath and plaster is the older wall system of wood strips, or metal lath, covered with coats of plaster, found in houses built before drywall became common.
Where it matters on a drywall job
Cutting into plaster is slower and dustier than drywall, and patching it to match takes skill. Price openings, wiring and repairs in plaster walls higher, and plan for lead paint testing in older homes.
What it costs
Jobs that involve lath and plaster are priced in the drywall repair cost guide: about $480 typical, usually $250 to $740. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price.
Work it out
- Cost guide: Drywall repair cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free drywall resources