In the world of construction and metalworking, understanding the different types of materials available is key to ensuring successful projects.
One such is metal lath. We are often being asked to clarify what this term refers to. Which is why we took a moment to create this article.
How does it differ from metal mesh? While they may seem similar, each serves distinct purposes and offers unique benefits.
In this quick article, we’ll explore what metal lath is, how it differs from metal mesh, and look at some practical examples of each available from The Mesh Company.
What Is Metal Lath?

Metal lath is a versatile building material, commonly used as a base for plaster or stucco applications. It is made by expanding, perforating, or pressing metal sheets to create a network of small, uniform openings. This rough texture allows materials like plaster or stucco to adhere securely, making it ideal for reinforcing walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
Types of Metal Lath: There are several types of metal lath, each suited to specific applications:
- Expanded Metal Lath: This type is created by cutting and stretching a sheet of metal, forming a diamond-shaped pattern. It’s the most common type used for plastering.
- Ribbed Metal Lath: This variant includes additional ribs or grooves that provide extra strength, making it suitable for heavier plaster coats or larger wall areas.
- Self-Furring Lath: This type includes built-in dimples or grooves that hold the lath away from the surface, allowing the plaster to envelop the entire lath, providing a stronger bond.
Why Use Metal Lath?
The main purpose of metal lath is to act as a supportive base for plaster or stucco. The open design ensures that the plaster bonds firmly, reducing the risk of cracks or detachment. It is typically made from galvanized steel to prevent rusting, ensuring longevity even in outdoor environments.
Example from The Mesh Company:
- We have a range galvanised steel Expanded Metal Lath, available in various thicknesses and dimensions to suit different projects. This product is ideal for plastering work in both residential and commercial applications, providing a robust foundation for walls and ceilings.
What Is Metal Mesh?

Unlike metal lath, metal mesh is a broader category that encompasses various types of woven, welded, or perforated metal sheets. Metal mesh is designed with a range of hole sizes, wire thicknesses, and patterns, making it suitable for an array of industrial, commercial, and decorative uses. The structure of metal mesh can vary significantly depending on its intended purpose.
Types of Metal Mesh: The most common types include:
- Woven Wire Mesh: This is made by weaving metal wires together in a crisscross pattern, similar to fabric. It’s available in a variety of opening sizes and wire thicknesses.
- Welded Wire Mesh: In this type, wires are welded together at intersections, forming a strong, rigid structure. It’s often used in construction and fencing.
- Perforated Metal Mesh: Perforated metal mesh comes in various patterns, including round, square, or custom shapes. The hole patterns and sizes can be tailored to the specific requirements of a project, offering a balance between strength and openness.
Why Use Metal Mesh?: The versatility of metal mesh makes it useful in a wide range of applications, from filtration and sieving to reinforcement and security fencing. Its strength and flexibility allow it to be shaped into various forms, while the open structure provides excellent airflow and drainage.
Example from The Mesh Company:
- One popular product is the Woven Wire Mesh made from 316 stainless steel, offering superior resistance to corrosion. This mesh is perfect for applications like filtration and sieving, as well as decorative screens. The Mesh Company also offers Copper Woven Wire Mesh, which combines aesthetics with functionality, ideal for EMI shielding and architectural uses.
Key Differences Between Metal Lath and Metal Mesh
Understanding the distinctions between metal lath and metal mesh is crucial for selecting the right material for your project. Here are the key differences between the two:
Purpose and Use Case:
- Metal Lath: Specifically designed as a substrate for coatings like plaster and stucco, metal lath’s rough surface ensures a strong bond between the plaster and the wall or ceiling. It is best suited for construction applications where a strong adhesion is required.
- Metal Mesh: Metal mesh is much more versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, including filtration, reinforcement, fencing, and even decorative purposes. Its uses extend beyond plaster support, making it a go-to material for different industries.
Structure and Design:
- Metal Lath: The design of metal lath includes small, uniformly spaced openings created by expanding or perforating the metal. This structure is designed to grip plaster or stucco.
- Metal Mesh: Available in different patterns like woven or welded designs, metal mesh offers a broader range of opening sizes and configurations, providing flexibility in its use. For example, woven wire mesh can be made with extremely fine openings, while welded wire mesh offers rigidity.
Strength and Durability:
- Metal Lath: Metal lath is often thicker and more rigid than some types of metal mesh, especially when ribbed or self-furring options are used. This is because it needs to hold up the weight of applied plaster or stucco.
- Metal Mesh: Metal mesh can range from very fine and flexible (like copper mesh for filtration) to very rigid (like stainless steel welded mesh for fencing). The choice of metal and pattern will determine the mesh’s strength and durability.


Practical Applications: When to Use Metal Lath or Metal Mesh?
Both metal lath and metal mesh have their place in construction and other industries, but choosing the right one depends on the application:
When to Use Metal Lath:
- Plastering and Stucco: If your project involves applying plaster or stucco to walls or ceilings, metal lath is the best choice. Its rough surface helps ensure that the plaster adheres well, providing a durable and smooth finish.
- Reinforcing Concrete: Metal lath can also be used to reinforce thin concrete applications, adding structural support to the material.
- Example from The Mesh Company: Their Expanded Metal Lath is ideal for use as a base in plastering projects, offering a sturdy and reliable solution.
When to Use Metal Mesh:
- Filtration and Sieving: For projects that require separating or filtering materials, woven wire mesh is ideal. It provides a precise opening size, allowing it to filter fine particles.
- Fencing and Security: Welded wire mesh is commonly used for creating secure fencing and partitions. It’s also used in industries that need durable barriers, like agriculture or construction.
- Decorative Uses: If you’re looking to add a decorative element to a space, consider using copper or stainless steel woven wire mesh. Its intricate patterns and metallic shine can create stunning screens or panels.
Metal lath and metal mesh may look similar at first, but they each have unique properties and applications. Metal lath is ideal for providing a strong base for plaster and stucco, ensuring a smooth and durable finish. On the other hand, metal mesh offers a versatile solution for a range of needs, from filtration to decorative accents. By understanding the differences between these materials, you can choose the right one for your project and ensure a successful outcome.
Explore the range of metal lath and metal mesh available at www.themeshcompany.com to find the perfect material for your next project.
As always, thank you for checking out our blog. We hope that this helps you with your project. We try to launch a couple of new guides every week. Eventually we will have covered everything there is to cover about mesh.
You may be interested in our blog that explores how to build a chicken coop.
Our goal for our blogs and help guides is to answer as many questions as possible to help to explain the possibilities of mesh to our customers.