Fao: The Builder

[sandyRoe]

The gable wall on my semi has been letting damp in. Could you give a rough figure for what it would cost to have the rendering removed and replaced?

[The Builder]

Hello Sandy.

First of all... how old is the house, roughly?

[sandyRoe]

It's close to 100 years old

[Atheist]

Haven't we had this question quite recently?

[sandyRoe]

We did, Atheist, but no answer with a thought on the cost.

[The Builder]

Probably not cavity walls then.
Solid stone, do you think?

[sandyRoe]

Brick, I think

[The Builder]

Mmmm.... could be cavity then.
If cavity, then the damp will be internal.
Cement render?

[sandyRoe]

Yes, cement rendering

[The Builder]

I've been reading you original thread on this gable.

Let's assume it is solid wall construction. Re-rendering will do very little to prevent penetration (despite popular belief.)

Does it face West, or south-West maybe?

[sandyRoe]

It faces south and there a discoloured patch on the rendering about 2/3 of the way up. It doesn't extend up to near the roof.

[The Builder]

If damp is showing up internally, then I would investigate that thoroughly before committing to re-rendering.

Most internal "damp patches" are usually not rising, but as a result of condensation, lack of good regular heating, ventilation, lack of extractor fans, breathing etc ;o)
Do have someone advise before going for re-render.

I would allow 5-6 thousand to include scaffolding, rubbish disposal, and VAT.

[sandyRoe]

OK. Thank you.