Render Cracking on Exterior Wall
Cracks appearing in the external render, ranging from hairline to wide splits that expose the masonry beneath.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Building movement or settlement
- 2Render applied too thickly or without expansion joints
- 3Incorrect mix or poor preparation of the substrate
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A rendering specialist will cut out and patch minor cracks, or remove and re-render larger areas with a flexible, reinforced system to prevent recurrence.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £850 – £2,233 | Materials: £417 – £1,267
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Use a render system with mesh reinforcement. Include expansion joints on long runs. Have cracks patched promptly before water gets behind the render.
Related Problems
Sections of external render detaching and falling from the wall, exposing bare brickwork or blockwork.
Damp patches visible on internal walls that correspond to areas of external render, especially after rain.
A visible crack running through the outside wall of your property, which may be widening over time.
Other Rendering Specialist Problems
Sections of external render detaching and falling from the wall, exposing bare brickwork or blockwork.
Damp patches visible on internal walls that correspond to areas of external render, especially after rain.
External render developing green algae or moss growth, making the walls look dirty and neglected.
Pebbledash coating losing stones or whole sections detaching from the wall.