How to Identify Ceiling Cracks Before Repairs

The type of crack that you see in your ceiling should guide you about the best repair method or products to use. This article discusses some of the kinds of cracks that you may see in your ceiling. Use this information as you decide how to fix that damage.

Fine Straight Cracks

Have you noticed a crack that forms a fine line running across the ceiling? Such a crack may be indicating that the joints between sections of the ceiling material were not taped appropriately. For example, the use of insufficient amounts of drywall mud can cause the tape to loosen and create the appearance of a crack. Such a crack is only superficial. You can remedy this cosmetic defect by taking some drywall compound and applying it underneath the loose tape. The tape will now adhere to the substrate effectively and the crack will be no more.

Discoloured Cracks

Does the appearance of the crack differ from the colour of the surrounding ceiling material? Such discolouration is a potential indicator of a water leak somewhere in the roof. Trace that water leak to its source before you attempt any ceiling repairs. It may be necessary for you to cut out the water-damaged section of the ceiling so that you replace it with a new section. This will avert any issues, such as mould problems, which can arise if the moisture-affected ceiling material is left in place and doesn't dry fully after the leak is fixed.

Tiny Spider Web Cracks

You may also notice that your ceiling has several cracks that look like spider webs. These kinds of cracks usually result from the use of thick layers of drywall compound as one is creating a textured finish on the ceiling surface. The cracks form as the compound shrinks during the drying process. This defect is cosmetic. Fix it by preparing some drywall compound. Apply it thinly over the affected sections of the ceiling so that the cracks are covered. Another option entails using a sanding tool to remove all the drywall compound that is showing cracks. You can then place a new layer on that sanded section. This second method is messy and demanding.

As you can see, the repair method should be tailored to the specific type of crack that you see in the ceiling. Consult professionals in case the cracks keep reappearing after you have conducted repairs. The experts may identify other underlying problems, such as structural issues in the foundation, which must be dealt with before additional cracks can stop developing in your ceiling. 


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