The project
Renewing tired lath-and-plaster ceilings without stripping out the full build-up.
The loose plaster layer was carefully removed from the existing lath-and-plaster ceilings. The timber laths were retained, and new timber grounds were set out across the ceiling to create a straight, continuous fixing face for the new plasterboard.
Why this method was used
Removing only the failed plaster exposed the original laths while limiting unnecessary disturbance to the wider ceiling construction and surrounding decorative details. The new timber grid provided a consistent base for boarding, allowing the renewed ceiling to be brought back to an even plane before finishing.
The scope
- Protect the occupied areas and surrounding finishes
- Remove the existing plaster layer from the lath ceilings
- Retain the existing timber laths
- Install new timber grounds to form a level plasterboard fixing grid
- Fix new plasterboard across the prepared ceilings
- Apply a new plaster finish and allow it to dry
- Prepare and paint the completed ceilings
The result
The flat was left with smooth, freshly plastered and painted ceilings, while the original ceiling line and surrounding cornice details were retained.
