metal lath: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical
Quick answer
What does “metal lath” mean?
A base material of expanded metal or wire mesh used as a support for plaster, stucco, or other finishing materials in construction.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A base material of expanded metal or wire mesh used as a support for plaster, stucco, or other finishing materials in construction.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term and its application are identical. The building trades in both regions use the same term for the same product.
Connotations
Purely technical; no significant connotative differences.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language but standard within the construction trades in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “metal lath” in a Sentence
[attach/install] + metal lath + [to/on] + [surface][apply/plaster] + [over] + metal lathVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Discussed in procurement for construction projects, specifying types and quantities.
Academic
Appears in civil engineering, architecture, and building conservation texts on traditional plastering methods.
Everyday
Rarely used outside of DIY or home renovation contexts involving plastering.
Technical
Core term in construction manuals, detailing installation methods and compatibility with plasters and renders.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “metal lath”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “metal lath”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “metal lath”
- Spelling: 'metal lathe' (a machine tool) is a common homophonic error. Pronunciation: failing to link the words, pronouncing 'lath' with a voiced 'th' (/ð/) instead of the voiceless one (/θ/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both are meshes, metal lath is specifically designed with a ribbed or dimpled pattern to mechanically 'key' and hold wet plaster. Chicken wire is lighter and not suitable for plastering.
Yes, it is commonly used on ceilings, especially when plastering over lath and plaster systems or creating curved details. It must be properly secured to the ceiling joists.
Standard, uncoated steel lath can rust if exposed to moisture. For wet areas or longevity, galvanised (zinc-coated) or stainless steel lath is recommended.
Plasterboard is a rigid, pre-formed panel with a gypsum core, used as a finished surface or a base for skim coats. Metal lath is a flexible mesh that serves solely as an armature for multiple, thick, wet-applied plaster coats.
A base material of expanded metal or wire mesh used as a support for plaster, stucco, or other finishing materials in construction.
Metal lath is usually technical in register.
Metal lath: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmetl̩ lɑːθ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmetl̩ læθ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a metal lattice (similar sound to 'lath') that acts as a 'launchpad' for plaster.
Conceptual Metaphor
A skeleton or framework that provides a 'grip' for a building's skin (plaster).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of metal lath?