![]() Repointing may be required using a suitable lime mortar or, in a more extreme case, the application of a lime render or other protective finish may be needed,' explains Douglas Kent. 'Cementitious mortars tend to be of low permeability and are brittle, allowing rainwater penetration via hairline cracks. Untreated cracks, especially on exterior walls, can also be a cause of damp problems further down the line, which in turn will cause more cracks. 'Cracks and loose plaster can arise from damp caused by structural issues, and should be repaired with appropriate materials,' says Roger Hunt. Usually these two symptoms will appear together and should be investigated, especially if they have occurred after heavy rain or flooding. Damp and moisture ingressĪs well as causing the signature dark marks on walls and ceilings, damp can also cause cracking. If it's your first time plastering, be sure to research how to plaster a ceiling as well as the walls to help to achieve a flawless finish first time around. ![]() You can also wet the wall before plastering. You can reduce the amount of cracks in your plaster by reducing its drying time, this can be achieved by keeping the room dark and free from breezes. Plaster shrinkage is not a cause for concern and can be spot repaired – learn how to repair a plaster ceiling and no-one will ever know that it used to be cracked – (the same technique works on walls too!). Plaster shrinkage is one of the most common causes of cracks in walls and is the result of moisture loss as the plaster dries and sets. Providing there is no sign of fresh movement then the problem has likely stabilized,' says Roger Hunt. ![]() In some cases, despite doors, windows or floors being at odd angles, they have settled into their new position. For example, if cracks have been repointed but have not opened up again, it is an indication that movement has ceased. 'Before worrying, look for indications that may suggest it is benign. What causes cracks in walls: common causesĪ new crack in a wall is always a bit scary. If you are unsure of the specific cause of the cracks in your walls, then always consult a professional to guide you as to the best next steps for your specific situation. 'Out of control trees and shrubs, cracked drains, leaking rainwater goods and missing roof tiles are just some of the things that cause cracks in walls and ceilings,' says Roger Hunt, author of Old House Handbook (opens in new tab). At the same time, cracks could equally signify a more major structural problem. This could be as minor as plaster drying or the walls expanding and shrinking in response to the weather. The answer to the question 'What causes cracks in walls' is very similar to ' Why is my ceiling cracking?' – simply put, the answer is that something has moved.
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