ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Cut-in Work in lathe and plaster

I usually just use drywall compound or spackle.

ETA: I have heard about a mix of plaster and drywall compund that's supposed to give a "closer to original" finish, but I've never used it.

[This message has been edited by DougW (edited 05-15-2005).]

I usually find the location for the box, trace it out and then drill a series of holes at the edge.....about 3/4 I bought a fine tooth wood saw at the Depot and will cut the remaining lathe while holding the lathe with Channel Locks to keep the damage to area plaster at a minimum....the key is a real fine tooth to the saw, more aggressive than a hack saw, but less than a jab saw.......it is slow, but keeps the plaster as good as it can be.

Never had much luck with the roto zip.....

[This message has been edited by GovtVoltage (edited 05-15-2005).]

I always use a jigsaw with lath. First, I clear away the plaster with a screwdriver. I then start on the lath. The trick is to not cut all the way through the lath vertically (that'll tear open the wall). I use plyers to take out the lath that has been cut 90% of the way through.

BTW, some plasterers were better than others. If they didn't mix it right, it crumbles or comes off in sheets. Have a long discussion with your client about the possible need for a decorator.

Dave

Bash large hole stud to stud with hammer! Kick debries into corner.

Install new work box, tell client you'll be back when its ready for trim.

Or why wait, trim it then...