Texture-coated fibre-cement – horizontal cracking
Some homes built with texture-coated fibre-cement claddings around the mid 1990s to the mid/late 2000s have had problems with leaks. This applies particularly to those with waterproof decks and parapets, no movement control joints, no eaves and complex designs. Engaging a registered building surveyor with experience in leaky homes is strongly recommended where a leak is suspected. DIY repairs and repairs by non-specialist builders often do not solve the problem and may result in further problems. See our Weathertight guide for more details.
Texture-coated fibre-cement claddings are typically proprietary systems. Where a problem such as cracking is found, contact the applicator/supplier for advice.
Causes
Horizontal movement control joints not included
Moisture entry into building structure
Building subjected to vibration movement such as earthquake, high wind
Listed under: Exterior, concrete and cement, timber and wood-based, earthquakes, timber, fibre-cement, cladding, framing, walls, wind, moisture, leaks, wall cladding, fibre-cement cladding
Cause
Horizontal movement control joints not included
Repair
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where there is no consequential damage identified by the building surveyor as a result of the cracking, have a professional installer cut a horizontal joint and fill it with sealant. A shaped hard-coated polystyrene moulding or timber facing can be installed over the joint to protect the sealant. The trim should be fitted over a sealant bead along the top edge. The top edge of all horizontal timber facings should have a minimum 15 degree slope to facilitate water runoff. (Where possible, there may be benefits in horizontal joints being flashed in a similar way to the inter-storey junction flashing shown in E2/AS1)
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if evidence of leaking through the cladding cracks is found, engage a licensed builder who has experience in weathertight remediation work. A building consent will be required for repair work where the cladding has not met Building Code durability requirements
Cause
Framing timber movement
Repair
- as above
Cause
Moisture entry into building structure
Repair
- engage a licensed builder who has experience in weathertight remediation work. A building consent will be required for repair work where the cladding has not met Building Code durability requirements
Cause
Building subjected to vibration movement such as earthquake, high wind
Repair
- as for first repair