What Could My 1940s House Walls Be Made Of?
Asked by VintageHomeHunter87
Hey everyone! I just bought a house from the 1940s, and I noticed that the walls aren't just ordinary drywall. When I drill pilot holes to hang stuff, it feels super tough, and while cleaning the bathroom vent, I spotted a side profile of the wall. It seems like there are three layers: around 4mm of a white material, 8mm of something that looks like an aggregate, and then another layer of the same 8mm, but also white. Any thoughts on what this could be?
Answers
Your walls are probably made of lath and plaster. It’s an older method where wooden laths are nailed to the studs, and then plaster is applied over it. It can be a pain to drill into, but it’s pretty robust!
Reply to this answer
If there’s no visible wood lath, it’s likely plaster over rock lath. I have the same setup in my 1939 house. It’s a thick layer that keeps things quiet, but drilling into it can be tricky!
Reply to this answer
Sounds like lath and plaster for sure! It’s tough when you need to remodel, but it also provides great sound insulation. Nice to know you have a solid wall structure!
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
CuriousDIYer99: Are there flat horizontal boards between the studs? That could confirm it!