DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

hi ,this is my first time on here,and i dont usually do much diy.I have a problem with my ceiling.the house is about 100 years old and the ceiling in the end kitchen is in need of repair.i have tried to fill the lathe as best i can with new plaster but the lathes are loose if you no what i mean[ they move when touched].i took most of the old plaster away till it seemed sturdy and then filled in as best i could. there are also holes or voides where the lathes are missing ,,,how do you fill these areas.
is it going to be easier to rip all down and put up new plaster boards?
stumpy :?

Two choices, as you say remove ceiling. Fantastically Messy Job!
or you can board over the whole ceiling without removing it. You will need to identify where your ceiling joist are and mark them so you can fix boards up good and secure, be carefull of electric cables and pipework.
KB

thanks for your reply...i was thinking down that road myself today,having looked at my efforts from sunday.should i use clouts or screws to secure panels to joists????
is good to have help,,,,,,,,
all the best
stumpy

I'd always fix by screwing plasterboards, it is best method.
You can buy special screws for plasterboards normally black but have seen other colours. Screws should go in about 150-200mm apart along joist. The length of screw will need to be a little longer to take in consideration you are going through lathe and plaster and plasterboard before you hit your timber joists.
I put up 12.5mm thickness boards on ceilings, prevents cracking, better insulation against sound and thermal and fire protection increased.
Glad to be of help, If you need any more assistance normally about.
Good Luck
KB

Definately don't remove old ceiling - too messy to contemplate and not neccesary. What I did to make life much easier was to screw wide battons (100mm) to the existing ceiling first. That way they help secure the old ceiling but also mean you are guarenteed a really good fixing for the new boards.

Cheers, Eragon

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