Rendering Repairs: What Causes Cracks and When to Act
Cracks in your home's render aren’t just an eyesore—they could be a sign of underlying issues. At Rama Restorations, we’ve helped countless Oxford homeowners repair and restore rendered surfaces on everything from new builds to historic properties. Here’s what you need to know.
What is House Rendering?
Rendering is a layer of plaster or cement applied to a property's exterior walls. It serves two main purposes:
- Protecting your brickwork from weather damage
- Improving the visual appearance of the building
Render comes in various types—cement, lime, acrylic, and modern silicone renders. Each reacts differently over time, especially with the UK's wet and often frosty weather.
Common Causes of Cracks in Render
Cracking can be caused by several factors:
- Movement or settling of the building's foundations
- Poor application or mixing of the render
- Weather exposure—freeze/thaw cycles in particular
- Age-related wear and tear
- Lack of expansion joints in large wall sections
Not all cracks are serious—but they can let moisture in. That’s where real damage starts.
When Should You Worry?
Small hairline cracks may not be urgent, but deeper or spreading cracks should be addressed quickly. Look out for:
- Cracks wider than 2mm
- Water stains or damp patches internally
- Render that sounds hollow when tapped
- Chunks of render falling away from the wall
If left untreated, these cracks can lead to serious water ingress, mould growth, and even structural damage.
Our Repair Approach
At Rama Restorations, we don’t just fill in the cracks—we find the cause. Our typical process includes:
- Inspection of structural movement and render condition
- Removal of damaged render sections
- Application of breathable, long-lasting render systems
- Colour-matching for a seamless finish
Whether it's a modern acrylic finish or a traditional lime render, we ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
Cracks in render are common—but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. With the right repairs, your home will be protected and look better for years to come.
Get in touch today to schedule a free assessment. We'll help you identify the cause, recommend the right solution, and restore your home's exterior the right way.