Lath Comparison
Laths are thin wooden strips commonly used in construction, typically ranging from 1 to 1½ inches in width, ⅜ to ½ inch in thickness, and 36 to 50 inches in length. They are manufactured from a variety of wood species, including oak, spruce, maple, and tamarack (juniper), each offering its own strength and durability characteristics.
Split Lath
Split lathes are narrow wooden slats traditionally used in the construction of wooden lobster traps. They are typically 3/4 inch wide by 3/8 inch thick, with lengths that vary to suit different trap sizes and designs. They are often made from species selected for resistance to moisture and salt exposure, helping extend the life of lobster traps during repeated use in coastal waters.
Ballast Lath
Ballast lathes are structural wooden components used in traditional wooden lobster trap construction to provide required mass, stability, and dimensional balance. They are installed primarily along the lower frame or base of the trap to ensure proper submersion, maintain a level orientation on the seabed, and resist displacement caused by tidal movement and currents.