Is It Better to Repair or Replace Old Plaster?
Plaster has been a cornerstone in construction for thousands of years, dating back to Ancient Egypt. Exterior plaster is a durable building material offering a smooth and strong finish suitable for both traditional and modern homes in New Zealand and across the world. Whilst it does stand the test of time, as kiwi homes age over time, so does their plaster. New Zealand homeowners often face the question to determine plaster repair vs replacement: Is it better to repair or replace old plaster?
At West & Sons Construction, we’ve worked with thousands of clients across Auckland and beyond, helping them make informed decisions about their exterior plastering needs and plaster repair vs replacement. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of remedial plaster repairing versus replacing old exterior plaster, to help you determine the best plan for your plaster home.
Understanding External Plaster
Before diving into plaster repair vs replacement, it’s important to understand exterior plaster. Exterior plaster, applied to the external area of a building is often referred to as render. It can protect the structure from weather, add aesthetic appeal, and can improve thermal / energy efficiency performance. External plaster must withstand the harsh and varied coastal climates, including rain, wind, and UV exposure. These are all important factors for New Zealand plaster homes. To better understand external plaster, you may want to read our recent blog; What are the benefits of exterior plastering?
When to Repair Old Exterior Plaster
If you are considering plaster repair vs replacement, replacing plaster is often the first choice for homeowners, especially when the damage is minor or isolated. Here are some common scenarios where repair would be the best remedy;
Hairline Plaster Cracks
Small cracks are usually cosmetic and can be easily filled and smoothed over. These are common in older homes due to settling or temperature fluctuations.
Water Damage in Plaster
If the source of moisture has been addressed (e.g., a leaky roof or pipe), the impacted plaster can often be dried out and patched up to be remedied. It’s crucial to address and remedy the underlying moisture issue prior to repairing the plaster.
Plaster Surface Imperfections
Plaster wall repair can remedy a plethora of issues, such as impact dents, wall scratches, or uneven, bumpy surfaces. Exterior plaster walls can be skim-coated with fresh plaster to restore it to its former glory with a smooth finish.
Preserving Character
In older, traditional heritage homes, original external plasterwork may have historical or aesthetic value. Exterior plaster wall repair allows you to maintain the character while improving its functionality.
When considering plaster repair vs replacement, repairing old external plaster is generally more cost-effective and less disruptive than a full renovation plaster replacement. It’s also faster, making it ideal for minor issues or when time and budget preservation is a factor.
When to Replace Old Plaster
When considering plaster repair vs replacement, plaster wall repair can often be sufficient, there are situations where replacement is the best option. Here’s a few examples of when you should consider a full plaster replacement;
Extensive Plaster Cracking or Bulging
If plaster cracks are widespread, continuous, or the plaster is pulling away from the wall, it may indicate serious structural issues or failure of the original application. In such cases, remedial plaster repair won’t suffice and a full plaster replacement is the best remedy.
Mould and Mildew
Persistent mould growth can pose significant respiratory health risks. If the plaster is saturated or contaminated, plaster replacement is often necessary to preserve the health of your family.
Outdated Plaster Materials
Older homes may have external plaster made with lime or other outdated materials that don’t perform well by today’s standards. Considering plaster replacement with fresh, modern plaster can improve the building’s durability and overall insulation performance.
Renovation Projects
If you’re embarking on a major renovation, firstly, congratulations. Replacing old plaster can provide a fresh start and ensure seamless compatibility with your new finishes or insulation systems. Sometimes it is more efficient to just start afresh. Replacing plaster can offer better long-term benefits, especially for homes with significant damage and outdated materials.
Exterior Plaster - To Repair or Replace?
In short, it is best to repair plaster for small cracks, chips, or isolated weather damage. We recommend replacing plaster when the render is failing, water is penetrating the structure, or during major exterior renovations.
External plaster is particularly important for protecting your home from the elements. If it’s compromised, replacement is often the safest choice to prevent further damage.
Professional Plaster Assessment Is Key
At West & Sons Construction, as Licensed Building Practitioners, we always recommend a professional assessment before making a decision on whether to repair or replace your plaster work. Our team can inspect your external plaster, identify underlying issues, and provide a clear recommendation based on your home’s condition and your needs.
Whether you’re dealing with a few hairline plaster cracks or considering a full scale renovation, we’re a safe and seasoned pair of hands to help you make the right choice to suit your budget and time frame.