The walls of a house do much more than simply hold up the roof; they provide vital weatherproofing and thermal insulation. When you arrange a property survey, understanding the type of wall construction your prospective home has is a key factor in assessing its overall condition and forecasting any future maintenance needs.

In the Gloucester area, you will encounter two main types of masonry walls: solid and cavity. Older period properties typically feature solid brick or stone walls. While robust, these are prone to cold spots and penetrating damp if the external pointing deteriorates. Modern homes are usually built with cavity walls, consisting of an inner and outer leaf with a gap in between. This gap is designed to prevent moisture from crossing into the home and is often filled with insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Common Cavity Wall Defects

However, cavity walls can develop their own specific defects. One of the most serious issues a residential building surveyor looks for is cavity wall tie failure. The metal ties holding the two layers of masonry together can rust and expand over time, causing horizontal cracking in the mortar joints and eventually leading to the outer wall bulging or even collapsing. Additionally, improperly installed retro-fitted cavity wall insulation can bridge the gap, allowing rain water to penetrate the internal walls and cause significant damp issues.

Professional Inspection

During our RICS Level 2 Home Surveys, we assess the external masonry and look for telltale signs of failure, such as cracking, bulging, or damp patches on the interior plaster. We help you identify the construction method and warn you of any immediate maintenance requirements so you know exactly what you are taking on.

If an inspection reveals significant horizontal cracking or obvious signs that the wall ties are failing, we may recommend commissioning a Structural Engineer Report to determine the exact extent of the failure and specify the necessary remedial works. Replacing wall ties across an entire house can be a highly disruptive and expensive process. If major repairs are needed, obtaining an RICS valuation will provide an accurate market assessment of the property in its current state, giving you the solid evidence you need to renegotiate the house survey prices and purchase offer before you exchange contracts.

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