Recessed medicine cabinets are a popular choice for bathrooms, as they provide a sleek and space-saving storage solution for toiletries and medications. However, one common question that homeowners with plaster walls have is whether it’s possible to install recessed medicine cabinets in their walls. In this article, we will explore the feasibility of installing recessed medicine cabinets in plaster walls and discuss the necessary steps to ensure a successful installation.
Understanding plaster walls:
Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of plaster walls. Plaster walls are made of a mixture of gypsum or lime, sand, and water, which is applied in layers over lath or wood strips. These walls are known for their durability and ability to insulate sound and temperature. However, their composition differs from modern drywall walls, requiring some adjustments when installing fixtures like recessed medicine cabinets.
Assessing the wall structure:
The first step in determining whether you can install a recessed medicine cabinet in your plaster walls is to assess the wall structure. Plaster walls can either be solid or hollow, depending on the type of lath used during construction. Solid walls are made with wood lath and are more suitable for installing recessed cabinets, while hollow walls have wire mesh or metal lath and are generally unsuitable for recessed installations.
Locating wall studs:
To ensure a secure installation, you’ll need to locate the wall studs behind your plaster walls. Studs are vertical wooden beams that provide structural support to the wall. To find the studs, you can use an electronic stud finder or adopt the more traditional method of tapping the wall and listening for a solid sound. Marking the studs will help you determine the appropriate placement for your recessed medicine cabinet.
Preparing for installation:
Once you’ve identified the studs and determined that your plaster walls are suitable for recessed installation, you can begin preparing the wall. Start by marking the desired position and size of your recessed medicine cabinet on the wall. Next, cut out the marked section of plaster using a plaster saw or a rotary cutting tool with a drywall cutting bit. Take care not to damage any electrical wires or plumbing located behind the wall.
Adding support:
To ensure the stability of your recessed medicine cabinet, it’s essential to add additional support within the wall. For solid plaster walls, you can build a wooden frame within the opening to provide a secure attachment point for the cabinet. For hollow plaster walls, you’ll need to install blocking or supporting brackets between the studs to create a stable base for your cabinet.
Installing the medicine cabinet:
With the necessary preparations complete, it’s time to install the recessed medicine cabinet. Carefully slide the cabinet into the opening, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the wall surface. Secure the cabinet to the added support or studs using appropriate screws or mounting brackets. Finally, blend the edges of the cut plaster with joint compound, sand the area smooth, and paint to match your bathroom’s décor.It is indeed possible to install recessed medicine cabinets in plaster walls with proper planning and care. By assessing the wall structure, locating studs, and adding necessary support, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a recessed storage solution while maintaining the integrity of their plaster walls. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a seamless installation that enhances both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your bathroom.