Are you noticing a crack in the ceiling of your home? Do you want to figure out how to fix it before it causes further damage? If so, then you need to find out what causes cracks in ceiling drywall.
This is what we are going to cover in this basic guide.
So whenever you’re ready to find out how to fix a cracked ceiling and what the most common fault causes are, read on.
Settlement Cracks
Settlement cracks in ceiling drywall are, unfortunately, common causes of damage. These cracks are caused when the structural members of a home settle, the weight of the entire house pushing downwards on either side of the crack.
The ceiling cracks may form in a stair-step pattern, spiderwebbing out, or they may run horizontally across the entire panel. To repair a settlement crack, the panel should be supported from underneath while the crack is filled with joint compound. It may need to be smoothed out several times to achieve an even surface.
Then the area should be painted to provide a seamless look. The cause of the settlement must also be fixed because the cracked ceiling is likely to come back if the structural problems are not fixed.
Temperature and Humidity Changes
Temperature and humidity changes can cause cracking in the drywall of the ceiling. As the temperature shifts, the drywall expands and contracts in response to the conditions. Also, any stresses in the drywall can cause stress or fractures since it is not flexible.
To repair cracks in ceilings caused by temperature and humidity changes, apply a thin layer of joint compound to the crack. Allow it to fully dry, and then sand down the joint compound.
This should fill in the crack and restore the structure of the drywall. Additionally, maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in the home. This can help keep the ceiling from cracking in the future.
Structural Issues
If the issue is structural, it will need to be addressed before attempting any repairs in order to prevent further damage and ensure the ceiling repair job lasts. To make sure the fix is safe and effective, it’s best to consult a professional. They can inspect the structure of the home, identify the exact source of the problem, and recommend a solution to fix it.
Generally, this involves structural repair work like installing additional support or reinforcing walls, columns, and beams. After the structural issues have been addressed, the drywall ceiling can then be patched, sanded, and painted to repair the damage. By then, you can add different types of recessed lighting or ornaments and ensure safety for you and your family.
Inadequate Support
Inadequate support is one of the most common causes of cracks in ceiling drywall. This can occur when a ceiling is placed over an area with a significant amount of activity below it, such as a washing machine and other laundry appliances.
Not enough strength and stability of the framing around the drywall can cause the drywall above to flex, causing a crack. Repairing this type of crack can be done by reinforcing the wall with additional wooden support beams.
Repairing the Cracks in Ceiling Drywall
The most effective way to prevent and repair cracks in ceiling drywall is to keep the house dry, maintain adequate insulation and humidity levels, and apply the appropriate joint compound if necessary.
No matter the cause, it’s important to address any cracks in the ceiling drywall quickly to prevent further and more costly damage in the future.
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