Repairing Railing in Lath and Plaster Walls: A Practical Guide

Lath and plaster walls are a common feature in many older homes, but they can be challenging to repair when damage occurs. One of the most common issues is gaps or holes at the junction between the wall and skirting boards. In this article, we'll explore some practical tips for repairing railing in lath and plaster walls.

When dealing with gaps or holes, it's essential to assess the extent of the damage before starting repairs. Some gaps may be smaller than others, requiring different approaches to fill them effectively. One option is to use a ready-made tub of fine sand and lime putty, which can be mixed with water to create a workable paste. This mixture can be applied to small cracks or holes using a trowel or putty knife.

For larger gaps or holes, it's often necessary to mix your own mortars and plasters/renders using hydrated lime from the builders' merchant, animal hair from specialist suppliers, and sand from the builders' merchant. This mixture will shrink over time, so care is needed when applying it to ensure that it doesn't crack or crumble. It's also important to avoid filling larger cracks or holes with this mixture, as it may not be strong enough to hold its shape.

Another option for filling small cracks or holes is to use a plaster of Paris and lime putty mix. This mixture can be applied using a trowel or putty knife and will set quickly, making it ideal for small, shallow holes. The existing plaster should be well wetted before applying the filler to reduce suction.

For larger holes, it may be necessary to use a lime plaster to fill them in two steps. The first step is to mix 3:1 coarse sand to lime putty with some added hair if the hole is in a stud wall. This mixture can be applied using a trowel or putty knife and allowed to set for a few hours before being finished off with a 2:1 or 3:2 silver sand to lime putty mix.

In conclusion, repairing railing in lath and plaster walls requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these practical tips and using the right materials, you can fill gaps and holes effectively and restore your wall to its original condition. Whether you choose to use a ready-made tub of fine sand and lime putty or mix your own mortars and plasters/renders, the end result will be a strong and durable repair that will last for years to come.

Repairing railing in lath and plaster walls