structural Problems

Cracks in Walls

Not all cracks are cause for concern. Hairline cracks from settlement are normal in houses. Larger cracks, especially diagonal ones, may indicate structural movement that needs investigation.

⚠️ Urgent - Don't Delay

Diagnosis Solutions Prevention FAQs

Common Causes

Normal settlement (especially new builds)

Seasonal movement (shrinkage/expansion)

Tree roots affecting foundations

Subsidence (ground sinking)

Heave (ground rising)

Poor original construction

Removed load-bearing wall

Vibration from traffic/building work

When Cracks Are Serious

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Cracks wider than 5mm (width of a pencil)

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Diagonal cracks (especially step-pattern in brickwork)

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Cracks getting wider over time

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Doors/windows sticking (frames distorting)

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Cracks appearing at weak points (corners, lintels)

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External cracks matching internal

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New cracks after nearby building work

🚨 What Happens If You Ignore This?

Most cracks are cosmetic, but structural cracks indicate ongoing movement that worsens over time. Early investigation can catch problems before they become expensive.

Assessing Your Cracks

Measure the Width

Hairline to 1mm = usually fine. 1-5mm = worth monitoring. Over 5mm = needs professional assessment.

Check the Pattern

Horizontal above windows = lintel issue. Vertical at corners = settlement. Diagonal/stepped = structural movement. Random craze pattern = plaster issue.

Monitor for Movement

Put tape across crack with date written on it. If tape breaks, crack is active. Monitor monthly.

Check External Walls

Are there matching cracks outside? External cracks visible in brickwork are more significant than internal plaster cracks.

⚠️ Call a Professional If You Notice:

•Cracks wider than 5mm
•Cracks are growing/active
•Diagonal step-pattern cracks
•Doors/windows sticking shut
•You're concerned about any crack
•Planning to sell and need assessment
•Building work happening nearby

Solutions

🔧 DIY Solution

Difficulty: easy

1
For hairline cracks in plaster:
2
Open crack slightly with a scraper
3
Fill with flexible filler
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Allow to dry, sand smooth
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Repaint
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For anything larger, get professional assessment first
7
Don't fill structural cracks - they need proper repair

👷 Professional Solution

We provide structural assessments and crack monitoring. Treatments range from repointing to underpinning depending on cause. We work with structural engineers for complex cases.

Typical Cost:Structural survey: £300-£600. Crack stitching: £1000-£3000. Underpinning: £10,000-£50,000+ (varies hugely)

Time to Fix:Cosmetic repair: 1-2 hours. Structural: depends on cause

Call 07459 345456

Preventing Structural Damage

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Don't plant large trees within 10m of house

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Maintain existing tree watering during dry spells

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Fix gutters and drains promptly (water erosion)

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Never remove walls without structural advice

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Get survey before buying older properties

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Address subsidence early - it's progressive

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our services.

Subsidence damage is usually covered by buildings insurance (subject to excess, typically £1,000). However, insurers may require investigation and may increase premiums or add exclusions after a claim.

Minor settlement cracks are expected and don't affect value. Structural cracks or history of subsidence must be disclosed and can significantly impact value. Professional repair with warranty helps mitigate this.

Subsidence is when ground beneath foundations sinks, causing the building to move. Common causes: clay soil shrinkage in drought (often due to tree roots), leaking drains washing away soil, or mining/excavation nearby.

Old settlement cracks are stable - they've been there for years and aren't changing. Active cracks widen over time. Monitoring with a dated crack gauge over several months reveals whether movement is ongoing.

Still have questions? We're here to help.

Still Having Problems?

If you've tried the DIY solutions and still have issues, or if you'd prefer a professional to handle it from the start, we're here to help.

Call 07459 345456 Request Quote

Free quotes • Gas Safe registered • NICEIC approved