Lath—The Path to Success

Cement plaster (aka stucco) can be broken into two distinct categories: lath and plaster. The latter is an amalgamation of earthen components—sand, cement and water. This is the artistic part of the cladding, an interfusion of the components adjusted slightly to fit the environment it’s being applied in. An artwork of the mix and the application of the mud, finished to a desired look, illustrates the dreams of designers.

The first category—and what I consider the most critical and least artistic, the lath—has for the most part remained the same. This dual-function assembly keeps water out and the stucco in place. This month, I wish to address this crucial-to-the-success component of our stucco claddings.