Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Cutting lath and plaster

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Electrical/Lighting
Date: 09 Feb 2000
Time: 08:28:21
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43

Comments

Probably the best way to cut out openings for lath and plaster and/or stucco walls is as follows:

1) Use a pencil to mark the required opening on the wall. 2) Use a 3/8" or 1/2" masonry bit to drill a hole on the inside of all 4 corners of the outline. 3) Use a circular saw with a diamond blade to cut through the plaster, creating a clean cut around the circumference of the outline. Use eye protection! 4) Use a file or rasp as necessary to clean out any rough edges and square out the corners. Make sure you provide enough clearance for the box to fit.

Tips:

If you find that a large circular saw is too bulky, try using a small battery-powered saw, such as a Makita or DeWalt with a diamond blade. These saws come in very handy for small jobs like this.

If you don't want to go to the expense of buying a diamond blade or special saw, there are a few other techniques you can try:

1) Use a masonry blade (very inexpensive) to cut through the plaster. These are less accurate, but can do the job if you're careful.

2) If you don't want to use a saw at all, I've even used a small masonry drill bit -- such as 1/4" dia to "punch" holes around the circumference of the outline. Once you've made a perforated line, use a hammer to knock it out. Use a file or rasp to clean up the edges so your electrical box fits in cleanly.

Good luck!

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