There is a wide array of wires used in the stucco lathing process today. This post discusses the various types available and their specific applications.
Choosing the appropriate type of lath will greatly simplify the job, as certain wires are better suited for particular tasks.
17 Gauge Wire (Three Coat Stucco Wire)
This wire is commonly used in the three coat stucco system and is quite strong. It is furred, which means it protrudes slightly from the wall (about 1/4 inch), allowing the stucco mix to "key" in behind it. For optimal installation, the wire should be placed in the center of the base coat.
Two images illustrate the same gauge wire: one with a square pattern and one with a more common honeycomb pattern. Both work well for three coat stucco systems, and the choice comes down to personal preference.
To achieve a furred product, the wire is machine-crimped. This causes it to stand off the wall by roughly 1/4 inch when rolled out. Always ensure that the "crimps" face inward to create a gap between the wall and most of the wire.
While non-furred versions are available, they're rarely used as most building codes require furred wire. Besides, non-furred types demand the use of furred nails. Typically, the wire is galvanized to prevent corrosion over time.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: This type of wire is available in rolls, measuring approximately 36" tall by 150' long, covering roughly 450 sq. feet.
- How Much Does It Cost: Prices vary by manufacturer, but you can expect to pay between $45 - $60 per roll, equating to about $0.10 - $0.13 per sq. foot.
- What's It Used For: Used primarily for three coat stucco applications and masonry applications.
- Where Do I Get It: Available at most stucco suppliers and many Home Depot locations, making it a convenient option.
20 Gauge Wire (One Coat Stucco Wire)
This wire resembles the 17 gauge but is thinner and less sturdy. It is used for one coat stucco applications and features smaller openings. Only one style is available, which looks similar to traditional chicken wire and is made specifically for one coat stucco installations.
Holes in the one coat wire are spaced about 1 inch apart, compared to the 1.5 inch spacing of the three coat wire.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: Just like the three coat wire, it comes in rolls measuring roughly 36" tall by 150' long, covering approximately 450 sq. feet.
- How Much Does It Cost: Prices vary, but expect to pay between $40 - $55 per roll, which is about $0.08 - $0.12 per sq. foot.
- What's It Used For: Exclusively for one coat stucco (two coat) applications.
- Where Can I Get It: Available at some Home Depot stores and stucco supply stores, though availability may vary by location.
High Rib Lath (Used On Ceilings)
Intended for ceilings and soffits, High Rib Lath is designed to secure plaster while minimizing fallouts. It resembles expanded metal lath but is more rigid due to the grooves running down its length.
High rib lath is used exclusively for ceilings. While it's possible to use it on walls, building codes may not permit it.
It's challenging to cut with tin snips, so a small 4" grinder with a metal cutting wheel is recommended for efficient cutting.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: It comes in sheets measuring about 27" by 8', offering approximately 16 square feet of coverage per sheet after overlapping the edges.
- How Much Does It Cost: Expect prices between $4 - $10 per sheet, equating to around $0.25 - $0.62 per sq. foot.
- What's It Used For: Specifically for soffits (ceilings).
- Where Do I Get It: Typically found at stucco supply yards and less commonly at larger home improvement stores.
Expanded Metal Lath
This lath features a smaller pattern in the wire, allowing the cement to bond very effectively. It's often used for patches, transitions, and uneven surfaces. While it can be used for entire projects, it is more expensive than traditional wire and is less commonly chosen for that reason. It's also highly effective for stone veneer projects.
Most sheets are not pre-furred and may not meet code requirements, though furred versions are available as special order items.
The expanded metal lath comes in three weights: 1.75, 2.5, and 3.5, with 2.5 being the most commonly used in the industry. For detailed information, please see Diamond Mesh Lath.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: Measures 27" wide by 8' long, available in sheets.
- How Much Does It Cost: Price ranges from $3 - $9 per sheet, approximately $0.19 - $0.56 per sq. foot.
- What's It Used For: Suitable for patches, masonry, tile, stone veneer, etc.
- Where Do I Get It: Widely available due to its versatility, though specialty stores often offer better prices and selections.
Paperback Stucco Wire (Open Stud)
Paperback stucco wire, mainly used for open stud applications, comes with the paper already attached. A strand of wires interweaves the paper and wire together, designed to overlap both the paper and wire simultaneously along the top and bottom edges.
For added protection, it's advisable to apply two layers of 60-minute building paper to the wall before using this wire as it tends to leak more easily.
Without a wall shear for backing, installation is more challenging and time-consuming.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: Available in rolls approximately 36" wide by 100' long and in sheets measuring 28" by 104" (or 96").
- How Much Does It Cost: Expect to pay between $60 - $85 per roll (around $0.20 - $0.28 per sq. foot) or about $10 per sheet ($0.55 per sq. foot).
- What's It Used For: Designed exclusively for open stud applications.
- Where Can I Find It: Available at stucco supply stores and some larger box stores.
Fiberglass Wire (Mesh) For Stucco
Fiberglass mesh (Spider Lath) is a lighter, more user-friendly alternative to metal. With furring strips on the back, it complies with building codes but is hard to find and more expensive. It's easier to cut and lightweight, making it user-friendly. Available primarily on Amazon as many local suppliers don't stock it.
- Typical Sizes It Comes In: Sizes can vary, so check specific listings for dimensions.
- How Much Does It Cost: Since it's a specialty item, prices are typically higher than traditional metal lath.
It can be cut with scissors or a utility knife and attached similarly to traditional metal lath—either stapled or nailed with approved fasteners.
Watch this quick video to see the entire process and what to expect if you opt for fiberglass mesh.
Wood Lath (Older & Less Common)
Historically, horizontal wooden slats were common in lathing but are less prevalent today due to the labor-intensive installation and higher costs. Though less common, wooden lath can still be found in older homes for both interior and exterior applications.
FAQ's Regarding Metal Lath
Nailing Patterns For Wire: The nailing pattern for most wire types involves a "6 and 12" interval, where fasteners are placed every 6 inches around edges and every 12 inches on vertical studs. Always check local building codes for specific requirements.
What Is Furred Wire: Furring involves creating dimples to hold the wire about a quarter-inch off the wall. This spacing ensures that the stucco can bond properly.
What Is K Lath: K lath is a brand of wire from Tree Island but is often used as a generic term for square-patterned wire found in commercial stucco applications.
What's The Best Way To Cut Metal Lath: Tin snips work well for most types of metal lath. However, a small grinder with a metal cutting blade is recommended for high rib lath due to its ribbed structure.
How Much Should I Overlap Wire: Overlap requirements vary by wire type and hole size. Industry standards recommend a 6-inch overlap for standard wire (three coat and one coat stucco wire) and around a 3-inch overlap for other types. Always check manufacturer guidelines and local building codes.
Remember, these are minimum requirements. Extra overlap is fine, but cutting corners on wire overlap can lead to problems later on. Wire is inexpensive in comparison to potential future complications from inadequate overlap.
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