In need of diy and a re-paint

Thanks for your input everyone, I've now got some decisions to make.

 

Ive just noticed you live on the IOM. Some areas are more prone to weather so buildings should be treated in different ways and with different approaches.
I did my degree in the conservation of masonry in Scotland and we focused quite a lot on how areas differ in the requirements to make a completely sound durable and water tight proposition. The west coast of Scotland needs a different approach to its buildings than the east coast.

It is in the last ten years we have now become acutely aware of how different things may work where the weather is not so bad but would simply be insufficient where the weather loading is higher.

I would strongly recommend a chat with you local building control officer or a really highly qualified local builder and by that I mean one who is up to date with modern products and their permeability before deciding your plan of attack.

We now understand the fabric of buildings far more than we did 10 years ago. In this day and age we as builders are not allowed to work on heritage buildings without the up to date information and qualifications, In Scotland I would not be allowed to set out a specification of works without these qualifications !

My recommendation is to strip all the paints and whatever is on those walls and repair as necessary. Then use the correct breathable ( permeable) paints for a long lasting and durable finish.

Re-pointing where necessary must be done with lime mortar. Just plain sand and cement wont do anymore.

Please do not blast away at those walls with a power washer, This is in this case a mistake.

 

Thank you Charlie. Your information makes sense and without completely re-rendering, what you suggest is the best way I think. It's going to mean some elbow grease though! As I've said we want to put it right but are not prepared to spend a fortune as we want to sell at some point. The rest of the bungalow is fine, it's just the front and the stack that catches all the weather.

 

I wouldn't render. Just as above get a local sand blasting company to remove everything. Then repair any joints or cracks using lime mortar. Lime moves with the expansion and contraction of the building. It breathes where ordinary Portland cement and sand mix will not. Then paint using a high quality permeable paint. This will last for a very long time.
Oh and use a stabilising solution before painting.

 

Thanks Charlie.