What is it?
A guide to distinguishing between minor cosmetic issues and serious structural defects.
What does it look like?
[Insert Photos] Comparison photos showing a hairline crack vs. a wide structural gap.
Common causes
1. Natural settlement
2. Subsidence
3. Thermal movement
4. Structural failure
How serious is it?
Rating: Variable. This depends on the width, direction, and location of the crack.
How to tell which cause you have
Is it wider than 3mm? Does it pass through bricks? Is it wider at the top? “Yes” to these suggests a serious issue.
What should you do next?
Use the ‘coin test’ or a crack gauge to monitor movement over time.
Typical repair options
Cosmetic filling for minor cracks; structural reinforcement for serious ones.
Typical repair costs (UK)
£50 – £20,000+.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I call an engineer? If cracks are over 5mm.
2. Can cracks be ignored? Only if they are stable hairlines.
3. Do cracks mean subsidence? Not always.
4. What is the ‘coin test’? If a 10p coin fits, it’s serious.
5. Does weather affect cracks? Yes, they often move seasonally.