Plaster acts as a protective layer on the wall, preventing moisture and weather-related damage, as well as UV exposure. It also provides a canvas for the wall paint, ensures a smooth finish and enhances aesthetics. However, with time, plaster degrades due to various factors, including age, dampness, or even poor initial application. Identifying the signs early allows you to hire plasterers in Haywards Heath and prevent further issues.
What Are The Signs That Plaster in Your Home Has Been Compromised?
Cracks and Crumbling Plaster
Cracks are a common sign that plaster has been compromised. Although a hairline crack can be handled, larger or deeper cracks suggest more significant issues. Crumbling plaster or pieces falling out are a serious indicator of an underlying issue.
How To Deal With It
If the crack is hairline, hire professional plasterers in Haywards Heath
for a thorough inspection and repair. Before that, try to find a nearby moisture source, as this is often caused by moisture ingress. However, if the crack is larger, the entire plaster might need to be replaced.
Damp or Mould Growth
Mould growth is one of the most common signs of moisture retention within the home’s structure. Typically, it occurs due to leaks in pipes or roofs, or due to external weathering. Look for damp patches or discolouration on the wall; if you see any, it is time to act. A musty smell inside the home or room is also an indicator of this issue.
How To Deal With It
Replacing the plaster will not solve this issue; you must address the root cause. To that end, hire experts to conduct a thorough inspection of pipes, roofing, and other water systems, and resolve the problems. Then call a damp proofing specialist to prevent further occurrences.
Sudden Hike In Energy Bills
Plasters prevent heat loss and heat gain into the property, resulting in higher insulation and a more comfortable temperature. If you notice a sudden increase in power bills, it may indicate that the plaster has lost its insulating properties due to degradation.
How To Deal With It
Replacing the plaster is the best way to improve insulation. To maximise this feature, consider using lightweight fillers such as perlite or polystyrene beads in the mix, or dedicated insulated plaster (such as cork or mineral-based). You can also use insulation boards (rigid or insulated plasterboard) behind or over existing plaster before finishing.
Too Old To Maintain the Integrity of Plaster
With age, degradation is common, and plaster is no exception. Often, the properties do not show any signs; however, simply refreshing the plaster helps enhance the protective barrier and extend the lifespan.
How To Execute This
If your property is 15 to 20 years old, contact a reliable local plasterer to refresh it. Older plasters become brittle over time; replacing them before they become brittle prevents property damage.
Plaster is not just home decor; it is armour for your home, protecting it from external and internal issues. Recognising that this armour has been compromised helps you adopt the appropriate measures and ensure the property’s longer lifespan.
Also Read Our Blog: How Builder Get Flawless Plaster Finishes for Properties?
Are you looking for reliable and trained plasterers in Haywards Heath? Connect with us. At Sinclair & Jones Building Contractors Ltd, we have been serving this industry for 40 years and take pride in providing flawless plastering in every setting.
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