Walls that are out of plumb or corners are not square

If walls are not square or plumb, this may not be a problem for cosmetic refurbishment but incorporating new work is more difficult. The decision about how much to attempt to rectify walls that are out of plumb depends on:

• how far out of square/plumb the wall is
• whether it was never square in the first place
• whether it will be noticeable or compromise the finished work
• whether it can be accommodated in the new or repair work
• what can be done and what it will cost to make good.

In most cases, walls out of plumb are unlikely to be particularly noticeable in the finished work, or the finished work can be made to mask it.

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Damage to ceilings

Damage to ceilings has generally occurred as a result of water ingress or building movement.

Before repairing a water damaged ceiling, the source of the moisture must be located and repaired. This may require re-roofing.

If the damage is a result of building movement, as as long as the ceiling has remained securely fixed to the framing, repair is possible.

Repair options available for plaster ceilings include:

• if there is only minor cracking but the plaster is generally well adhered to the framing, flush off the crack with gypsum stopping compound
• small areas of damage to plaster ceiling roses and cornices may be repaired by a skilled plasterer
• if damage is significant (such as a number of cracks and/or the ceiling is sagging), total replacement may be the best option.

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Incorporating insulation

See insulation.