1890's House - Internal walls

[chris101]

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I have just taken a few pics.

One where the internal wall was taken out and the state the bricks left are in and the where skirting board has been taken out of the wall the builders want to take out.

Still think we would retain the wall?

 

[JohnD]

well it hasn't fallen down in the last 123 years.

I think it will stand for a few more.

 

[chris101]

According to the builder the issue is with cracks appearing in the plaster in the future.

He said as its not 100% stable, through slight movements over time and through heat from the radiators, it will in the futue cause cracks as have been identified on other internal walls.

What would you do if you were in my shoes?

 

[JohnD]

I'd patch up the plaster and leave it.

In an old house, original features add to the value.

 

[chris101]

What about the current cement between the brick, thats the biggest problem.

They can replaster but they said guaranteed within 1-2 years cracks will reappear.

Is there anythig I can advise the builder to make the current old brick work stronger?

 

[chris101]

Also another thing. The builders were unable to retaining the coving on the ceiling.

I am skeptical if in reality they could save it?

 

[tony1851]

They can replaster but they said guaranteed within 1-2 years cracks will reappear.

Have they quoted you for traditional 2-coat plastering (ie a browning coat and finish) or are they using plasterboard and skim (aka 'dot-and-dab' method)?

The former WILL crack if applied directly to the brickwork and timber, but the latter shouldn't.

(as mentioned before, keep a close eye on this because £400 is un-realistic)

 

[chris101]

They are using plasterboard and skim method.

£200 per wall was due to size of the project (rear extension , 2 bathrooms and finishing of 5 other rooms), so im sure they aint really loosing much