All paint removed. This is the point in the room restoration that you just look at it in disbelief. Surely it can get better? It looks like you've just made it all the worse! There were at least 4 coats of paint on top I think two layers of wallpaper. The paint had to be scored to get through to the wallpaper so that the wallpaper could be steamed off. A utility knife worked the best to get through those layers of paint. The scoring tools sold at home depot, etc, do not work with that many layers of paint. Most likely there is some lead based paint in there so the entrance to the living room must be taped off with plastic and sealed from the rest of the house. The floor was protected with drop cloths. 
There were some areas of detached plaster from the lath. Those sections had to be removed as well and will be replaced by plaster of paris. For the most part these 80 year old walls are in very good shape.
The old method was to use what they called the brown coat which appears to be a cement based material. The brown coat was mixed with horse hair and you can see it when the pieces are broken apart. It was the 1920's version of composite materials. Same thing is still done today with concrete. You can have them mix fiberglass into it for a very small price but it helps prevent spalling.
1 comment:
Scott, thanks for the update on your almost final home improvement. We have watched ( from afar) with delight as you meet the challenge. What a cozy and special place to call home....love to all, mom g.
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