How to repair and paint cement walls?

[Edgar]

I am in the midst of repairing and painting bathroom rooms. It is in an older double brick building. Previous repairs to the walls have been done with what looks like a fine cornice cement, leaving the surface very smooth and obvious.

1. What can I apply over these repaired areas to give a better, more uniform texture? I have read on some forums to apply a topping compound or skim coating but I am unclear on this.

2. There are other hairline cracks in the double brick wall that I would ideally like to deal with now before they get larger. Does anyone have any tips on how to do this?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Edgar,

You might like to post some pictures of the issues so our members have a better idea of the problems you're dealing with.

As you've mentioned, Gyprock CSR 2.25kg Less Mess Topping Compound is typically the last coating applied before sanding and priming. However, another component that might alter the texture is the paint. A wall that has been painted several times will develop a stipple to the texture, and newly repaired sections with only one or a couple of coats might not have built up this texture. You could first try recoating the areas a couple of times with a 12mm nap roller and your paint.

Remember your personal protective equipment, including a face mask, safety glasses and gloves.

Are the cracks in the actual brick wall or in a coating like plaster that has been applied to the wall? If the cracks are in the brick wall itself, that's not an issue you can resolve through D.I.Y. means. You'd need to have the wall assessed by a movement, cracking and underpinning specialist to determine if the foundations are sinking or if another structural issue is going on. That issue must be resolved to ensure the cracking doesn't get worse. You can fill the crack to disguise the issue, but that won't solve the underlying problem.

As you've mentioned this is an older property, I just wanted to point out that there is a risk of asbestos exposure from homes built or renovated before 1990. Before starting any work, determine if asbestos is present by having your home assessed and taking necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. Resources are available from the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency for guidance on safe practises.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell