Signs You Need to Replaster Walls

Cracks Appearing in the Plaster

One of the first signs you might need to replaster walls is the appearance of cracks. While fine hairline cracks are common due to settling or minor drying shrinkage, larger or spreading cracks are often a sign of deeper issues.

Common causes of plaster cracks:

• Structural movement
• Temperature fluctuations
• Moisture damage
• Poor application during initial build

What happens if you ignore them?

Unrepaired cracks can widen over time, allowing moisture to penetrate the plaster and underlying structure. This can lead to rot, mould, and even compromise the wall’s stability. Addressing the issue early with professional replastering is often more cost-effective than waiting for serious damage.

Bubbling, Peeling, or Flaking Plaster

Have you noticed paint bubbling, plaster peeling, or flaking patches appearing? These signs usually mean that moisture has become trapped behind the surface, often due to leaks, condensation, or previous poor workmanship.

Key indicators:

• Plaster feels powdery or soft to the touch
• Paint won’t adhere smoothly
• Surfaces appear uneven or discoloured

What happens if ignored?

Moisture behind plaster doesn’t just affect aesthetics it can cause the plaster to completely detach from the wall. In humid homes or rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, this can quickly spread. Replastering walls will restore both appearance and structural integrity.

Damp Patches and Staining

Damp on internal walls is a serious warning sign that often gets overlooked. Yellowish stains, mould patches, or persistent damp areas mean your plaster has become saturated and may no longer function properly.

Potential causes:

• Faulty render or pointing allowing rain in
• Rising damp or plumbing leaks
• Poor ventilation in older homes

The risks of ignoring damp:

Ignoring signs of damp may seem harmless at first, but the long-term consequences can be serious and costly:

• Long-term health issues from mould exposure – especially for children, the elderly, or those with asthma or respiratory conditions. According to UK Government guidance on the health risks of damp and mould, prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory infections, skin irritation, and worsened asthma symptoms.

• Structural damage, as persistent damp can weaken plaster, render, and underlying brickwork.

• Interior damage, with peeling paint, discoloured wallpaper, and ruined soft furnishings becoming increasingly common as moisture spreads.

Hollow or Loose Sounding Plaster

Tap your walls lightly. Do they sound hollow? Does the surface flex under pressure? If so, it’s a strong indicator that the plaster has detached from the wall underneath — often due to moisture damage, vibration, or age.

This issue is common in:

• Older homes with lath and plaster
• Converted lofts
• High-traffic areas like hallways or stairs

Consequences of ignoring hollow plaster:

• Sudden falls of plaster, posing a safety hazard
• Reduced insulation and soundproofing
• Structural voids developing behind walls

Professional replastering is the only long-term fix, as patch repairs usually won’t bond securely.

When to Replaster Walls Due to Ageing or Wear

Even plaster that looks ok may be well past its best. Plaster has a natural lifespan — typically around 20–30 years, depending on conditions. In older homes, especially pre-1970s, the plaster may be:

• Brittle or crumbly beneath the surface
• Poorly insulating
• Hard to decorate due to rough or uneven surfaces

Benefits of renewing old plaster:

• Smooth, modern finish for decorating
• Improved energy efficiency
• Boosted property value

If your ceilings are textured or outdated, you may also want to read our guide on plastering over artex for a modern upgrade.