Building codes and planked walls
by
Lori Jackson
+3
We are wanting to plank the outside walls of our living room. We are debating taking out the plaster and lath, but if we do...will we have to put drywall under planks? For the record, I am in favor of faux planking over existing surfaces as the walls are smooth and we know that they have blown insulation inside there.
6 answers
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Most building codes do not require anything under your wall covering. Studs and insulation then whatever you're going to cover the wall with. But your best bet incase you're not sure is call your local building dept. and ask.
Debbie Harris
on Aug 03, 2014
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Debbie, here in rural America, things are pretty loose and fast. Depending on the advice of strangers on this one. :-)
Lori Jackson
on Aug 03, 2014
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Since this is just for cosmetic purposes, why not use the overlay method (faux planking over existing surfaces)? It would eliminate the mess of having to clean up all that blown in insulation, which if you did not install, you do not know the age or content...there could be asbestos issues! Asbestos can be costly to remove and very unhealthy once disturbed! You do not want to deal with that! It is always best to leave Pandora's box unopened!
Jeanette S
on Aug 04, 2014
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Jeanette, we do know what is in those walls as we did remove plaster and lath for the installation of a new front door. Prestige A & R--I was pretty sure that we would need to drywall before planking if we decide to remove plaster and lathe. Our approach thus far has been if the plaster and lath is in good condition (no cracks or deterioration), leave it alone. I will pass your advice onto the hubby. Jeanette, I am all for the faux planking as it looks lovely and is cheaper!
Lori Jackson
on Aug 04, 2014
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Lori, I found info on building codes in your county, but not sure it discusses what you need to know. I'm just on a quick break from housework and don't have time to read it all. If you can't find what you need I'd advise calling your county offices to make sure. http://www.neo.ne.gov/home_const/iecc/counties/custer.htm I'm with you on not going to the mess of removing the plaster and lath,if for nothing else other than the mess it would make. Breathing in that kind of dust isn't healthy either. I'm wondering if your hubby isn't concerned about the thickness of the planks matching up to your current door and window trim?
Z
on Aug 04, 2014
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I would totally go over it. No different than paneling in theory. If the plaster is sound and the roof is good there spuld not be excessive moisture anyway. Also plaster from the early 60s often contains asbestos. No harm if not disturbed.
Moxie
on Mar 19, 2016
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