Diamond Metal Lath vs. Rib Lath vs. High Rib Mesh
Metal lath products differ in mesh pattern, rib structure, stiffness and intended application. Understanding these differences helps contractors, distributors and building material buyers select the right reinforcement or formwork product for their projects.
Diamond Metal Lath
Diamond Metal Lath is an expanded steel mesh with a characteristic diamond-shaped opening pattern. It provides a mechanical key for plaster, stucco and other cement-based coatings, helping the applied material bond to the supporting surface.
It is commonly used on suitable wall surfaces and framed assemblies where a reinforced plaster base is required. Paper-backed options are also available for applications where the backing layer is specified by the project design.
Typical Technical Specifications
- Material: Galvanized expanded steel
- Common weight: 1.75/ 2.5/ 3.4lb/sq yd
- Common sheet size: 27 × 96 inches
- Surface finish: Galvanized coating; G60/G80 are common North American Specifications
- Product options: Flat diamond, self-furring and paper-backed types
- Application: Stucco, plaster and cement-based rendering
Rib Lath
Rib Lath combines an expanded metal mesh with continuous reinforcing ribs. Compared with flat diamond metal lath, the ribbed profile increases rigidity and helps the sheet maintain its shape during handling and installation.
It is commonly selected for plastering walls, ceilings and soffits, as well as certain reinforced applications where additional stiffness is required. The appropriate rib height, sheet thickness and support spacing depend on the product specification and installation design.
Typical Technical Specifications
- Material: Galvanized steel; stainless steel options available
- Common sheet sizes: 27 × 96 inches or customized dimensions
- Thickness range: Approximately 0.15–0.50 mm, depending on type
- Rib height options: 3/8 inch, 3/4 inch and selected metric profiles
- Mesh structure: Expanded mesh with continuous reinforcing ribs
- Application: Walls, ceilings, soffits and selected construction formwork
High Rib Mesh
High Rib Mesh, also called high rib lath or high-rib formwork mesh, features a pronounced ribbed profile and expanded mesh structure. Its deeper ribs provide stiffness for applications where the mesh must retain its profile during concrete placement.
Unlike conventional plastering lath, High Rib Mesh is frequently used as stay-in-place formwork for concrete construction joints, retaining structures, walls, beams and other specified concrete works. Product selection and support arrangements must follow the project design and installation instructions.
Typical Technical Specifications
- Material: Galvanized steel; other materials may be available
- Common panel size: Approximately 450 × 2200 mm
- Thickness range: Approximately 0.21–0.50 mm for common profiles
- Rib height: Commonly around 14–20 mm
- Rib spacing: A common specification is approximately 90 mm
- Application: Permanent formwork, concrete construction joints and selected concrete structures
Which Metal Lath Should You Choose?
Diamond Metal Lath is generally the practical choice for conventional stucco and plaster reinforcement. Rib Lath is suitable when a reinforced mesh with greater profile stiffness is needed for plastering or related construction applications. High Rib Mesh is primarily intended for specified concrete formwork and construction-joint applications. Always confirm the product profile, dimensions, thickness, coating and installation requirements before ordering.
Note: The specifications above are representative examples, not universal requirements for every product. Dimensions, thickness, weight, rib profile, coating and packaging can vary by model, market requirements and project specifications. Please confirm the final technical data with ALLIEDMESH before placing an order.
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