How to Find Ceiling Joists Under Plaster Lath and Plaster

How to Find Ceiling Joists Under Plaster Lath and Plaster

Okay, so listen up. You got this super old house, right? And let’s be honest, the ceiling looks like it was the site of a pigeon convention gone wrong. But here’s the thing: you wanna hang something cool from that ceiling, maybe like a fancy light or a disco ball for your next dance party. The problem? Finding those sneaky ceiling joists hiding under all that plaster lath and plaster is tougher than finding a unicorn in your backyard.

So buckle up! I’m about to give you these 7 hilarious steps to track down those elusive joists like you’re hunting for treasure. Let’s go!

Step 1: Gather Your Gear

First off, you need some stuff. Not just any stuff—super important tools. Grab yourself a stud finder because that thing is like a magic wand but for walls. And get a hammer too because if things go wrong, you might just need to knock something (or someone) out.

Step 2: Channel Your Inner Pirate

You gotta think like a pirate, matey! Aye, yer searchin’ fer treasure! So walk around the room with swagger and say “Arrr” loudly enough so everyone knows you’re serious about findin’ them joists. This will totally scare away anyone who tries to distract you.

Step 3: Do Some Knocking

But here’s where it gets good. Use your knuckles to knock on the wall or ceiling like you’re auditioning for America’s Next Top Knocker. Listen closely after each knock; if it sounds hollow, there’s no joist there. If it sounds solid, bingo! It’s time to party!

Step 4: Measure Like A Pro

Now comes math time—ugh! Measure about 16 inches from that last spot you found (the solid sound one), ’cause usually joists are spaced that way. But don’t get mad if they’re not ’cause this isn’t math class, it’s home improvement!

Step 5: Start Scaring The Plaster

Take your stud finder and start waving it around like you’re trying to summon an ancient spirit from the ceiling. When it lights up or beeps at you—BOOM! You might have found yer first joist! If not, keep scaring away the ghosts until one gives up its location.

Step 6: Make Small Holes

This part is risky business but sometimes ya gotta make small holes in the plaster (don’t worry too much). Use a drill or even just poke with something sharp if you’re brave enough! Just don’t poke your eye out or anything stupid like that!

Step 7: Celebrate Your Victory!

If ya find those joists at last—it’s time for celebration! Hit up some snacks or tell everyone in the neighborhood how awesome you are now for finding ceiling joists under thick layers of plaster! You deserve all the chocolate cake now.

FAQ Section

Question: What is plaster anyway?
Answer: Oh boy—it’s like mud but harder! It goes on walls and ceilings to make them look fancy (and confusing).

Question: Can I use a regular hammer to find joists?
Answer: Sure! But don’t blame me if you end up banging on your neighbor’s head instead of finding wood.

Question: Do I need special skills for this?
Answer: Nope! Just guts and maybe a well-cooked pizza break in between steps!

Question: What if I poke through too much?
Answer: Just slap some tape on whatever hole happens and act like it was supposed to be an art project.

Question: How do I know when I’ve found a joist?
Answer: When you feel triumphant or your friend screams “Eureka!” while waving their arms about.

Question: Should I call professionals instead?
Answer: Only if you want someone else getting cake while you’re still hunting—the choice is yours!

Question: Can I put my disco ball anywhere?
Answer: Technically yes—but aim for those blessed joists first before everything falls down during the dance party of your life.

And there ya have it! Go forth now brave explorer and conquer those ceilings—there are treasures waiting just for YOU under all that old plaster mess!