Lath wood refers to a thin, narrow strip of straight-grained wood used in construction and woodworking for various purposes.
Understanding Lath Wood
Essentially, a lath is a strip of wood characterized by its thin, narrow profile and straight grain. This specific form makes it suitable for applications where flexibility, ability to hold material, or structural support in conjunction with other elements is required. Historically, it was a fundamental component in certain building methods.
Primary Uses of Lath Wood
Based on its properties, lath wood has been historically utilized in several key areas:
- Roofing: Placed under roof shingles or tiles to provide a surface for fastening and structural support.
- Plaster Walls and Ceilings: Used as a substrate in lath and plaster systems. The thin strips are nailed horizontally across framing members (studs or joists), leaving small gaps between them. When plaster is applied, it is pushed through these gaps, forming a mechanical key that locks the plaster onto the lath.
- Lattice and Trellis Work: Constructed by crisscrossing lath strips to create decorative or functional open patterns, commonly used for garden screens or plant supports.
Common Applications of Lath
| Application | Purpose | Role of Lath |
|---|---|---|
| Under Roof Coverings | Provide fastening base for shingles/tiles | Thin support strips |
| Lath and Plaster Walls | Create a surface to hold plaster | Substrate forming a mechanical key for plaster |
| Lattice/Trellis | Decorative screens, plant support | Component strips forming open patterns |
These versatile wooden strips have played a significant role in construction, particularly before the widespread adoption of drywall. While still used in repair work for older buildings, modern construction often employs alternative materials like metal lath or gypsum board.
