Cracking on external wall

Question

Who can provide me with a QUALIFIED opinion on whether cracking on an external wall is superficial or is likely to be something more concerning and needs surveying?

Julian · Answer

Depends on the 'cracking'. Cracking normally gives an indication of its source,  it can be ground movement, it can be a drain issue or it can be a lintol failure, quite a few things really so it needs looking at.  We sometimes put 'tell tale' markers on and measureme them periodically to assess whether movement is ongoing or stable and always look to clear the cause issue first before cosmetic repainting. So, no one can say definitively without looking at it but whatever it is, is curable.

Trevor · Answer

It will depend on extent of crack and if it goes through to inside 
It also depends on if it goes from a window or door to floor or facia as it could be window or door failing outside ground dropping is a sign of serious movement but a structural survey would determine if serious or minor

Scott · Answer

Can you send pictures  from the external wall 
That would help us ancer your question

Othmani · Answer

You will need a surveyor to identify the actual issue. You might also need a structural engineer advise.

Izmir · Answer

qualified opinion would need to come from either a structural engineer, a chartered building surveyor, or an experienced builder seeing it in person — cracks can’t be reliably diagnosed without inspection.

That said, as general guidance:
	•	Hairline cracks (under 2–3mm), especially in render or mortar joints, are often cosmetic and caused by shrinkage, thermal movement, or weathering.
	•	Stepped cracks following brick joints, wider cracks, or cracks that continue to grow can indicate movement or foundation issues and should be investigated further.
	•	Cracks around windows, doors, or corners can be more concerning than random surface cracking.

If the crack is:
	•	Wider than 3–5mm
	•	Getting longer or wider over time
	•	Accompanied by sticking doors/windows or internal cracks

then a structural survey or engineer’s report is advisable.

Bottom line:
Minor cracks are very common and often superficial, but if there’s any doubt, a chartered surveyor or structural engineer is the correct qualified professional to confirm the cause and rule out anything serious.

Doug · Answer

It would be my advice for you to get a structural engineer to look at your problem they are best suited to advise as what is needed 
Having said that if your looking at cracking in the mortar no wider than 3mm then it’s more likely to be moisture and weathering if there larger or follow the mortar line into other rows the get an engineer to look at it

Ben · Answer

A structural engineer can provide you with a qualified and professional opinion.

Paul · Answer

Depends on age of property where the crack is is the property cavity built or solid ect . A lot of deciding factors come into play when determining cracks . Obviously building are constantly moving so more details the better to diagnose the problem

Cracking on external wall

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