Stained Exterior Bricks
Stained Exterior Bricks is a cosmetic finishes defect SURE inspectors have documented across 9 inspection reports.
Causes
- Moisture retention or damp conditions allowing algae growth.
- Mortar or paint spills during construction.
- Poor clean-up post-construction.
- Lack of post-construction cleaning
- Construction debris
Symptoms to look for
- Visible green/dark stains on exterior walls.
- Mortar particles, paint marks, or general debris on bricks, particularly on sides that appear to have been leaned against.
- Dirty or stained brickwork
- Visible dirt, marks, or residue on brickwork
- Unsightly appearance of brickwork
Remedies
- Investigate cause and clean.
- Thoroughly clean the brickwork, exercising caution not to damage mortar joints.
- Clean bricks in affected areas
- Clean the affected brickwork on the exterior walls
- Clean the affected brickwork to remove markings and residue.
Include this check in your next inspection.
Typically a low-severity finding, but worth documenting before maintenance work. Every SURE inspection includes 12 months of free advice.
Curated entries in Finishes
- Curated 1–3/5Common Cracks and Settlement in Pathways
Cracking and uneven settlement in concrete footpaths, driveways, and porch slabs is one of the most frequently observed external defects in Perth homes, present in 11.66% of all reports. Most findings are minor and reflect the expected behaviour of unreinforced concrete slabs on reactive soils, though tree-root intrusion and poor drainage can accelerate movement to a point where trip hazards develop.
- Curated 1–4/5Surface Rust on Pergola Frame
Surface oxidation on steel pergola frames is one of the more frequent cosmetic findings in Perth pre-purchase reports, appearing in 11.19% of all inspections. Left untreated, surface rust progresses through the coating into the base metal, eventually compromising the structural integrity of posts and beams. Early intervention with surface treatment is straightforward; through-corrosion is not.
- Curated 2–4/5Cracked Floor Tiles in Wet Areas
Cracked, loose, or drummy floor tiles in bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. Allows moisture penetration to the substrate, potentially compromising waterproof membrane integrity and causing concealed water damage.
- Curated 1–3/5Damaged Eave Lining
Damage to the underside lining of the eaves - including cracking, holes, gaps at junctions, and poorly cut penetrations around downpipes - is recorded in 8.78% of all inspection reports. Beyond the cosmetic concern, openings in eave lining allow birds, possums, and insects to access the roof cavity and can accelerate timber deterioration where moisture also enters.
- Curated 1–3/5Eave Deterioration and Ageing
General weathering and paint breakdown on eave linings, timber rafter ends, and quad trim is one of the most common findings on Perth homes built before 2000. Left unattended, deteriorated eaves allow moisture into the roof perimeter, accelerating rot in rafter ends and creating conducive conditions for timber pests.
- Curated 1–3/5Defective Door Handles, Hinges, and Locks
Malfunctioning or worn door hardware including loose handles, squeaking hinges, misaligned latches, and non-functioning locks. High-frequency defect across all building eras, typically cosmetic but can affect security and fire egress.