How do I hang a heavy mirror on plaster and lathe?
by
Ann
+1
A few days ago, I posted a question asking how to hang a heavy mirror above our fireplace, on plaster and lathe. I received great responses and determined to find the studs that the lathe had been nailed into. My husband and I had done this previously in a bedroom using a magnetic stud finder because the regular stud finders do not work on plaster and lathe walls. Well, I am not happy to report that we found no evidence of any nails in the wall above our fireplace. Here is my question -- is it possible in the 1890's that plaster would have been applied directly to the brick of the chimney flue instead of building a stud wall then nailing lathe and coating with plaster? (I really want x-ray vision!)
Suggested Project Book
Hi. Yes it's quite possible. Use the ole' thump method. Rap on the wall to detect a sound. Then go to a proven plaster and lathe wall and rap. If the fireplace wall sounds "thick" it's probably brick with no wood. Now you know to use mason screws to hang your mirror. Good luck!
Ann,
We use to live in an 1839 center chimney Greek revival. What we discovered was that framing was done around the chimney, but no studs directly in front of the chimney. The lathe was stretched across the width of the chimney, nailed to the framing on either side, and plastered. There was about an inch of space between the plaster and lathe and the brick of the chimney. Your's might be very different. You can figure it out by drilling a pilot hole using a small bit. Drill as deep as the bit will allow. Look to see what comes out of the hole as you drill and look at the bit. Does it have just plaster on it or are there wood shavings as well? Now you can insert a thin wire into the hole and determine the depth. That also can help you determine what is there. If you decide to hang the mirror no matter what, even if it means anchoring into the brick, then just decide what type of anchor to use in the brick based on the weight of the mirror and go from there.
That is exactly whatI needed to know. Thank you for the detailed information!
You are welcome. Good luck!