Cracks in drywall can be an eyesore and a cause for concern, especially if they seem to be growing over time. Not only do these cracks affect the appearance of your home, but they can also be a sign for more serious underlying issues like foundation settlement.
We’ll give you the step-by-step for fixing cracks in drywall, it’s easy! But if you discover that there’s a structural issue, it’s not always a quick patch up, so we’re here to help.
Why are there cracks in my drywall?
Common Causes of Drywall Cracks
Drywall cracks can occur for various reasons, including:
- Normal Settling: All homes settle over time, leading to minor cracks.
- Humidity and Temperature Changes: Fluctuations can cause materials to expand and contract.
- Poor Installation: Improper drywall installation can result in premature cracking.
- Foundation Issues: Significant and/or growing cracks may indicate foundation settlement.
How to Identify Foundation Settlement Cracks
Not all drywall cracks are created equal, and in this case, size matters. Cracks caused by foundation settlement are usually:
- Wider than 1/8 inch
- Diagonal or stair-step in pattern
- Accompanied by other signs like sticking doors and windows
- Growing longer or wider over time
If you notice these types of cracks, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent further damage. read on for next steps.
DIY Step-By-Step for Fixing Cracks in Drywall
Materials Needed
- Utility knife
- Sandpaper
- Drywall tape
- Joint compound
- Putty knife
- Primer and paint
Step-by-Step Guide: How to fix cracks in drywall
- Prepare the Area: Use a utility knife to widen the crack slightly and remove any loose debris. This ensures the joint compound adheres properly.
- Apply Drywall Tape: Place drywall tape over the crack. This helps reinforce the repair and prevent future cracking.
- Spread Joint Compound: Using a putty knife, spread a thin layer of joint compound over the tape. Allow it to dry completely before applying additional layers.
- Sand Smooth: Once the final layer of joint compound is dry, sand it smooth to blend with the surrounding wall.
- Prime and Paint: Apply primer to the repaired area before painting to match the rest of the wall.
When to Call the Experts
While small cracks can often be fixed with a DIY approach, growing cracks in drywall are a huge red flag for foundation issues. Foundation settlement can lead to severe structural damage if left unchecked.
Prevent Further Damage & Stop Settlement
At True Level Concrete, we specialize in diagnosing and permanently repairing foundation problems. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art techniques to stabilize your foundation and prevent future damage.
Don’t let small cracks turn into big headaches. Protect your investment and save your home from uneven floors, doors not working, water and air leaks, and more. Contact us today for a comprehensive assessment and quality repair.
Settlement repair – FREE Quotes
Fixing cracks in drywall can be a straightforward task, but it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes. If you notice growing cracks, it’s a sign that you may need foundation repair. Addressing foundation settlement early can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Foundation problems don’t get better with time, trust True Level Concrete for reliable, affordable and effective foundation repair services to keep your home safe and sound.
Book a FREE Quote for homeowners. Let’s restore your home and your peace of mind.