Walls crumbling around window
Hello, In my flat in two of the bedrooms the walls surrounding the windows are crumbling and the paint/plaster is crumbling. They were previously damp but the damp seems to have gone/dried and now there’s just lots of flaky plaster and paint. There are also cracks in the paint in the seams between the walls and the window seal and the window and bugs are getting in. Would a plasterer be the right person for the job/how would I weatherproof to stop damp and this happening again? The windows are single glazed and part of a council owned building so cannot be changed.
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Answer:
Based on the issues you’ve described, here’s my advice:
1. First, you’ll likely need a plasterer to repair the crumbling plaster around the windows. They can remove the damaged plaster and reapply new plaster to create a smooth surface.
2. However, before replastering, it’s important to address the underlying causes of the damage to prevent it from recurring:
a) Moisture issues: Even though the damp seems to have dried, there may still be underlying moisture problems. A damp specialist or building surveyor should inspect the area to determine if there are any ongoing issues with water ingress or condensation.
b) Weatherproofing: The cracks you’ve mentioned suggest that water might be getting in around the window frames. This needs to be sealed properly.
3. For weatherproofing and sealing:
– A handyman or general contractor could apply weatherproof sealant around the window frames to prevent water ingress and stop bugs from entering.
– They might use silicone caulk or a similar product to seal gaps between the window frame and the wall.
4. To help prevent future damp issues:
– Ensure proper ventilation in the rooms to reduce condensation.
– Consider using a dehumidifier if the rooms tend to be humid.
– Make sure any exterior pointing or rendering around the windows is in good condition to prevent water ingress.
5. Regarding the single-glazed windows:
– While you can’t change the windows, you could look into temporary solutions like window insulation film or heavy curtains to help with insulation and reduce condensation.
6. As this is a council-owned building, it’s important to:
– Report these issues to your council’s housing department. They may be responsible for some of the repairs, especially if they relate to the building’s structure or weather-tightness.
– Get their permission before undertaking any significant work, even if you’re paying for it yourself.
In summary, you’ll likely need a combination of professionals: a plasterer for the wall repairs, possibly a damp specialist for assessment, and a handyman or general contractor for weatherproofing. Always start by contacting your council to understand what they will cover and what permissions you need.
