Accordion Lath in USA

Understanding Accordion Lath in Modern Construction

We define accordion lath as a specialized type of expanded metal lath engineered to simplify the application of plaster, stucco, and other wall coatings in both residential and commercial construction. In the USA, accordion lath is widely used for its flexibility, light weight, and ease of handling, making it a preferred option for projects demanding curved surfaces, complex architectural features, or faster installation timelines.

What is Accordion Lath?

Accordion lath is a pre-expanded sheet metal lath that has been compressed in an accordion-like fashion, allowing it to be easily stretched or adjusted during installation. It is typically manufactured from galvanized steel, ensuring corrosion resistance, and is available in multiple weights and gauge thicknesses.

Unlike flat lath, accordion lath arrives pre-bundled in compressed form, making it more compact to transport and store. Once on-site, it is expanded manually to the required dimensions, giving it superior customizability in comparison to traditional lath products.

Key Features and Advantages

Lightweight and Easy to Handle

One of the defining features of accordion lath is its lightweight structure. Because it is shipped in a folded, compact format, it reduces logistics costs and allows workers to carry multiple sheets at once, increasing job site efficiency.

High Flexibility for Architectural Designs

Accordion lath excels in projects where radius walls, domes, or rounded archways are required. Its structure permits it to be shaped easily around curves without extensive cutting or overlapping, reducing the chances of material fatigue or installation error.

Time-Efficient Installation

Accordion lath’s pre-compressed format makes it quick to deploy. Once expanded, it can cover large areas rapidly with fewer fasteners and less labor, which significantly cuts down installation time and overall project costs.

Improved Plaster Keying

The mesh pattern of accordion lath offers excellent mechanical bonding for cement-based materials. The design promotes deeper plaster keying, reducing the risks of delamination, cracks, and surface bubbling over time.

Common Applications of Accordion Lath in the USA

Exterior Stucco Systems

Accordion lath is frequently used in three-coat stucco systems, which are prevalent in states such as California, Arizona, and Nevada. Its flexibility and strength provide an ideal substrate for base coats and finish textures in hot, arid climates.

Interior Plaster Walls and Ceilings

In restoration and high-end interior design, accordion lath enables the precise application of decorative plaster, especially over curved frames or vaulted ceilings. It is often paired with gypsum underlayments to enhance soundproofing and fire resistance.

Masonry Veneer Applications

It also plays a critical role in anchoring stone or brick veneers to wood or steel framing, especially in light commercial buildings. Accordion lath ensures proper mortar adhesion and maintains system durability under thermal stress.

EIFS and Moisture Control Systems

While less common than in traditional stucco, accordion lath is sometimes used in EIFS assemblies where dimensional adaptability is required and secondary drainage must be maintained.

Installation Methods and Best Practices

Surface Preparation

Accordion lath should be installed over sheathing, typically plywood or OSB, with a weather-resistive barrier underneath. Proper flashing, drainage, and control joints must be incorporated according to ASTM C1063.

Fastening Techniques

Use galvanized lath nails, screws, or staples spaced 6 inches on center at supports. The lath must be stretched taut during installation to prevent sagging and maintain surface flatness. Overlap edges by at least 1 inch at side joints and 2 inches at end joints.

Integration with Accessories

Typical accessories used with accordion lath include:

• Corner Beads for reinforcement
• Expansion Joints for movement accommodation
• Weep Screeds at base flashing to allow moisture drainage
• Control Joints every 144 sq. ft., as required by building code

Material Specifications and Compliance

Accordion lath in the USA must comply with ASTM C847, which governs the physical properties and manufacturing standards for metal lath. The product is available in various sizes, including:

• 27-inch x 96-inch sheets (compressed)
• Expanded coverage up to 2.5 square yards
• Weighs approximately 2.5 to 3.4 lbs per square yard

Sheet metal is commonly galvanized G60 or G90 to resist corrosion in humid or coastal environments. In fire-rated assemblies, it may be paired with gypsum board or cementitious coatings to achieve the necessary fire-resistance ratings per ASTM E119.

Accordion Lath vs. Traditional Expanded Metal Lath

Geographical Demand and Regional Practices

Western U.S.

In states like California and Nevada, accordion lath is heavily used in tract housing, commercial plazas, and multi-family developments. The preference stems from fast-track construction needs and climatic compatibility with stucco finishes.

Southwestern States

Builders in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas favor accordion lath for Santa Fe-style homes, which frequently include rounded parapets, arched entries, and irregular textures.

Southeastern Coastal Regions

While metal lath corrosion is a concern, newer PVC-coated or stainless-steel accordion laths have gained traction in Florida and Louisiana, especially in hurricane-resilient wall systems.

Sustainability and Innovation

Accordion lath manufacturers are increasingly turning to recycled steel to meet LEED certification requirements. With environmental concerns rising, innovations such as biodegradable packaging, VOC-free coatings, and pre-fastened mesh panels are gradually entering the market.

Digital layout tools are also being used to pre-measure lath placement, integrate CAD-based framing models, and reduce waste through precision cutting.

Major U.S. Manufacturers and Distributors

Some of the leading producers of accordion lath in the U.S. include:

• ClarkDietrich Building Systems
• AMICO (Alabama Metal Industries Corporation)
• CEMCO
• Phillips Manufacturing
• Westside Building Materials

These companies provide accordion lath that meets the demands of large-scale residential, institutional, and commercial projects with extensive technical documentation and code approvals.

Conclusion

In today’s dynamic construction environment, accordion lath offers a superior alternative to traditional lathing methods. Its adaptability, ease of use, and high-performance characteristics make it a staple in modern plaster, stucco, and veneer systems across the United States. Whether applied to complex architectural features, tight project timelines, or code-driven assemblies, accordion lath continues to drive innovation in lightweight cladding systems. As building science evolves, its role in energy efficiency, fire resistance, and design freedom will only grow stronger.

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