ᐅ Base coat plaster cracks along the joints of the insulation boards
Created on: 1 Oct 2023 22:35
U
Urade3499U
Urade34991 Oct 2023 22:35Hello everyone,
Today I noticed cracks in the base of my KfW55 new build (March 2023).
I would like to hear some opinions from you regarding the possible cause.
The construction method is Poroton (T7-36.5-MW) with the second layer of bricks overhanging on a shallow foundation. The work was carried out according to Wienerberger’s construction specifications.
From what I can assess from the outside, the cracks appear at the joints between the insulation panels. There are also corresponding white discolorations visible there. In my view, moisture (condensate) enters the gaps from below, leading to the superficial cracking.
The house was built by a general contractor; I am not an expert in construction trades.
According to the construction description, I am responsible for sealing the base plaster against moisture from ground-contacting elements according to DIN 18533. For me, this means applying a waterproof slurry where the exterior landscaping will later be in contact with the soil. Could these cracks be a result of this waterproof slurry not yet being applied, even though there is currently no direct contact with the soil?
Attached are photos of the current situation and two images from the construction phase for those of you with expertise.
Some photos were taken early in the morning when dew had formed on the wall. The crack lines are clearly visible in those, although not on every wall! The cracks mainly affect the sides exposed to wind-driven rain but also to sunlight.
I would be very grateful for your opinions on the cause of this issue. If you need any further information to form an opinion, please feel free to ask.
Best regards

Today I noticed cracks in the base of my KfW55 new build (March 2023).
I would like to hear some opinions from you regarding the possible cause.
The construction method is Poroton (T7-36.5-MW) with the second layer of bricks overhanging on a shallow foundation. The work was carried out according to Wienerberger’s construction specifications.
From what I can assess from the outside, the cracks appear at the joints between the insulation panels. There are also corresponding white discolorations visible there. In my view, moisture (condensate) enters the gaps from below, leading to the superficial cracking.
The house was built by a general contractor; I am not an expert in construction trades.
According to the construction description, I am responsible for sealing the base plaster against moisture from ground-contacting elements according to DIN 18533. For me, this means applying a waterproof slurry where the exterior landscaping will later be in contact with the soil. Could these cracks be a result of this waterproof slurry not yet being applied, even though there is currently no direct contact with the soil?
Attached are photos of the current situation and two images from the construction phase for those of you with expertise.
Some photos were taken early in the morning when dew had formed on the wall. The crack lines are clearly visible in those, although not on every wall! The cracks mainly affect the sides exposed to wind-driven rain but also to sunlight.
I would be very grateful for your opinions on the cause of this issue. If you need any further information to form an opinion, please feel free to ask.
Best regards
S
stjoob_at10 Oct 2023 15:10Was waterproofing applied behind the insulation boards?
Was a bonding agent used?
Was a bonding agent used?
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