How To Restore Cracks in a Drywall Ceiling (2024)

Cracks in a drywall ceiling could be unpleasant and worrying for householders. Whereas these imperfections are sometimes innocent, they’ll detract from the general look of a room and ‌could also be indicators of underlying points. Thankfully, repairing cracks in a drywall ceiling is a manageable DIY mission for a lot of householders. This information will stroll by means of the causes of ceiling cracks, assess their severity, and step-by-step restore directions.

Completely different Forms of Ceiling Cracks (and Why They Happen)

Ceiling cracks can happen for numerous causes. Most cracks are beauty and outcome from pure settling or seasonal adjustments, however some might point out extra severe structural points. Ceiling cracks sometimes stem from a couple of frequent sources, like wooden motion in framing, seasonal temperature, humidity adjustments, home settling, improper drywall set up, and structural points (in uncommon instances). Understanding the kind of ceiling crack may also help decide the trigger and acceptable restore measures.

• Hairline cracks: These are very skinny, usually lower than 1/8 inch broad. These cracks are normally attributable to minor settling or seasonal enlargement and contraction.
• Spiderweb cracks: Resembling a spider internet, these unfold out in a number of instructions from a central level. They’re normally beauty however can reveal underlying rigidity within the drywall.
• Straight cracks: These usually run alongside drywall seams and occur because of shifting within the residence’s basis or framing. These can typically imply your property has structural points however not often do.
• Zigzag cracks: Operating in a jagged sample, these usually occur due to uneven settling or improper drywall set up.

Assessing the Severity of Ceiling Cracks

Earlier than making an attempt repairs, decide if the crack is just beauty or an indication of a bigger downside. Take into account the crack width and size, the presence of water stains, recurring cracks after earlier repairs, and any sagging or bulging within the ceiling. If the cracks are broad, accompanied by water stains, or if the ceiling is sagging, you need to seek the advice of a structural engineer to rule out severe structural points.

Step-by-Step Information To Repairing Ceiling Cracks

Comply with the steps on this information to restore ceiling cracks.

Step 1: Collect Instruments and Supplies

• Drywall joint compound
• Drywall tape (paper or self-adhesive fiberglass mesh)
• Drywall knives (4 to 5-inch and 10 to 12-inch)
• Sandpaper (120-grit)
• Drywall screws (if wanted)
• Screwdriver or drill
• Primer and paint
• Ladder or scaffolding
• Drop cloths
• Security glasses and mud masks

When engaged on ceiling repairs, security must be a prime precedence. At all times use a sturdy ladder or scaffolding, put on security glasses to guard your eyes from falling particles, and use a mud masks when sanding. Lay down drop cloths to guard flooring and furnishings.

Step 2: Put together the Crack

Start by cleansing the world across the crack. Use sandpaper to tough up the painted floor barely, then wipe away any mud with a moist material. This gives higher adhesion for the restore supplies.

Step 3: Safe Free Drywall

If the drywall across the crack feels unfastened, safe it by driving drywall screws into the ceiling joists on either side of the crack. This may stop additional motion and cracking.

Step 4: Apply Drywall Tape

For hairline cracks, you’ll be able to apply self-adhesive fiberglass mesh tape straight over the crack. For wider cracks, apply a skinny layer of joint compound with a 4 to 5-inch drywall knife, then embed paper drywall tape into the moist compound.

Step 5: Apply Joint Compound

As soon as the tape is in place, apply a skinny layer of joint compound over it, feathering the sides with a ten to 12-inch drywall knife. Lengthen the compound about 6 inches on both facet of the crack for a clean transition.

Step 6: Let Dry and Sand

Let the primary coat of compound dry utterly, which usually takes 24 hours. As soon as dry, evenly sand the world with 120-grit sandpaper to clean out any ridges or imperfections.

Step 7: Apply Extra Coats

Apply two to 3 extra skinny coats of joint compound, permitting every to dry after which sand between coats. Every successive coat must be wider than the final, extending 12 inches to 18 inches on both facet of the crack for a seamless mix.

Step 8: Remaining Sanding and Cleansing

After the ultimate coat has dried, sand all the restore space till it’s clean and even with the encircling ceiling. Wipe away all mud with a moist material.

Step 9: Prime and Paint

To finish the restore, apply a coat of drywall primer over the patched space. As soon as the primer is dry, paint the ceiling to match the prevailing coloration and texture.

Keep away from These Errors

Even with one of the best intentions, it’s straightforward to make errors in the course of the restore course of. Making use of an excessive amount of joint compound can create a cumbersome and uneven end. It’s higher to use a number of skinny coats fairly than one thick coat. Not sanding between coats or after the ultimate coat can go away the repaired space wanting bumpy and apparent. Skipping the priming step may end up in an uneven paint end, with the repaired space standing out from the remainder of the ceiling.

How To Stop Future Ceiling Cracks

Whereas some cracks are inevitable because of pure settling and seasonal adjustments, there are steps you’ll be able to take to attenuate future cracking. 

First, hold a constant indoor humidity stage by utilizing a humidifier when the air is just too dry and a dehumidifier when the air is just too moist. Repair any roof leaks straight away and be sure to have correct attic air flow. Lastly, use versatile caulk at wall-ceiling joints to additional stop cracking. 

When To Name a Skilled

Whereas many ceiling cracks could be repaired as a DIY mission, some conditions name for skilled intervention. Take into account calling an professional if cracks are wider than 1/4 inch, the ceiling is sagging or bulging, otherwise you discover indicators of water injury. You must also rent knowledgeable if cracks reappear shortly after you restore them or if a number of cracks are current all through the house. An expert evaluation can determine underlying structural points and restore them correctly to stop additional injury.