When it comes to construction or renovation work, especially in roofing or plastering, knowing how many laths are in a bundle is essential for estimating materials and budgeting accurately. Laths, which are thin strips of wood or metal, are commonly used as a base for plaster, stucco, or tiles. They’re also used in roofing to support shingles. Whether you’re a contractor, builder, or simply planning a home improvement project, understanding how laths are packaged and sold can save time, money, and effort in project planning.
Understanding What Laths Are
Laths are narrow strips typically made of wood, though metal and plastic versions are also available depending on the application. In older buildings, wooden laths were nailed to wall studs and then covered with plaster. Today, they are still used in traditional plastering, as well as in fencing, roofing, and garden projects. Their utility lies in their spacing and support structure, allowing materials like plaster or shingles to grip and bond more effectively.
Types of Laths
Laths vary in material and dimensions depending on the intended use. Common types include:
- Wooden Laths: Traditionally used for plastering and roofing.
- Metal Laths: Common in modern construction, often used in fire-resistant or moisture-prone areas.
- Plastic or Vinyl Laths: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, typically used in outdoor or moisture-heavy environments.
Dimensions of a Lath
The standard size of a wooden lath is approximately 1 to 1.5 inches wide, 4 feet long, and 1/4 inch thick. However, lengths can vary depending on the manufacturer or local standards. Knowing the dimensions is crucial for calculating how many you need for a specific surface area.
Common Sizes by Application
- Roofing Laths: Usually 1×2 inches in size and come in lengths of 3 to 4 feet.
- Plaster Laths: Around 1×1/4 inches and up to 4 feet in length.
- Fence Laths: Can be longer, often 6 feet or more, and wider depending on design preferences.
So, How Many Laths Are in a Bundle?
The number of laths in a bundle depends largely on the material type, dimensions, and manufacturer packaging. However, for wooden laths used in general construction or plastering, the standard packaging is relatively consistent across the industry.
Wooden Laths
In most cases, a bundle of wooden laths contains50 to 100 laths. For plastering work, 50 laths per bundle is a common quantity. These bundles are typically tied or shrink-wrapped together for easier transport and handling.
Metal Laths
For expanded metal lath (used more commonly in stucco and modern plaster applications), a bundle usually includes10 to 20 sheets, each approximately 27 inches by 8 feet. These are heavier and more rigid than wood laths, which accounts for the smaller bundle size.
Plastic or Vinyl Laths
These vary greatly depending on the manufacturer and intended use. Some plastic lath bundles include as few as 10 to 25 pieces. They are typically lighter, but often sold in smaller bundles to accommodate different construction styles or designs.
Estimating Lath Requirements
To determine how many bundles of laths you need, you must first calculate the surface area you intend to cover and then factor in the size and spacing of each lath. For example, for wall plastering, laths are installed with gaps between them, which affects the total number required.
Basic Calculation Example
If you are covering a wall of 100 square feet, and each lath covers 0.3 square feet (assuming 1 inch by 48 inches), you would need about 333 laths. If each bundle has 50 laths, you would need roughly 7 bundles. Always round up and consider wastage or cutting errors.
Why Knowing the Bundle Count Matters
Accurate planning of materials helps prevent project delays and excess costs. Ordering too few laths can halt work, while ordering too many leads to waste. Understanding the standard number of laths in a bundle allows contractors to estimate material needs more efficiently and maintain control over budget and logistics.
Additional Benefits
- Efficient Project Planning: Helps with scheduling labor and delivery times.
- Cost Management: Prevents overspending on materials.
- Storage Considerations: Knowing how many laths come in a bundle helps in preparing adequate storage space at the worksite.
Buying Tips for Lath Bundles
When purchasing laths, always ask the supplier for details on bundle sizes. Not all manufacturers adhere to the same standards, so confirmation ensures you’re comparing prices fairly. Additionally, inspect bundles for quality – warped or cracked laths can compromise the integrity of your project.
Things to Check When Buying
- Bundle Size: Confirm the exact number of laths included.
- Lath Quality: Look for clean, straight, and uniform pieces.
- Material Type: Match the material to the job for best results (e.g., wood for traditional plaster, metal for fire resistance).
- Moisture Content: Especially for wooden laths, ensure they are dry and free from rot.
The number of laths in a bundle varies based on material, purpose, and supplier, but for general guidance, expect around 50 laths per bundle for wood, 10 to 20 for metal, and 10 to 25 for plastic. This knowledge is vital for construction professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, as it influences material estimation, budgeting, and overall project efficiency. Taking the time to understand lath bundle quantities ensures you’ll have the right amount of material on hand, reducing waste and preventing delays.