Lathe & plaster ceiling falling down

Norman_Castle

I'd try cutting out the sagging triangle, build the depth back with plasterboard then skim. If that triangle pushes back into place easily you might be able to refix it with multiple screws into the laths but the screw heads will go through the ceiling plaster very easily. Push it into place, support it, fix with screws then remove the support.

Whatever you do cover the area with dust sheets, hopefully you wont need them but you'll be pleased they're there if you do.

grumbler

justwhat said:

grumbler said:

Try to push it up manually. If it moves easily, i.e. it's only the plaster falling apart, not some broken joist, then locate the joist(s) and screw the plaster to them in multiple points- gently, not allowing the screws heads to go through the plaster.

you cant screw plaster to joists you may be able to screw the lath to joists. But usually you just cause the plaster to crack even more.

If it really cracks, you can make 'countersinks' first. And, like I said, screw gently and drill pilot holes first.