What is happening with this wall?

[MrsAlwaysRight]

Can anyone advise what might be causing this? It's an external wall surrounding french doors. Has been gradually getting worse. Thanks in advance for replies.

It looks like at the very least the plaster has blown (come away from the brick). Does it sound hollow when you knock on it?

Yes it does sound hollow

Looks like a previous poor filler repair. Gouge it all out with a screwdriver to see if there are underlying issues.

I'd also try putting a long (1 metre) level against it to see if it's all still plumb.

Thanks for the replies. There is a small section slightly higher that looks like it's sticking out very slightly. Seems strange that it's appeared after we've lived here for over 15 years!

Is it lath and plaster? If it is the plaster has blown off - the plaster needs hacking out and replastering. You can buy ready mix plaster and build it up in layers- might be an idea to add a layer of PVA to the surface before you plaster though to make sure that the new plaster bonds. If you’re not confident about doing something like this get a plasterer in.

If it isn’t lath and plaster it could be any number of things- could be damp as it’s near a door. You really need to get someone to come in and see if for themselves

No idea if it's lath and plaster. I'll look into getting someone in to get it sorted before it gets worse. Thanks for all the advice 🙂

Do check the frame outside and the bricks or stones. We had this and it was caused by slow build up of rain water seeking through a small crack then running down inside the frame.