Cracks in ceilings are a common issue many homeowners face. While they may seem like just a cosmetic problem, left unaddressed, cracks can expand and lead to further damage. Fixing cracks in your ceiling is an important repair that helps prevent continued deterioration. With some basic tools and materials, you can repair ceiling cracks and restore your ceiling’s smooth finish.
What Causes Cracks in Ceilings?
There are several common causes of cracks in ceilings:
Settling and Shifting
Over time, all homes naturally settle and shift. This movement often results in cracks in ceiling and walls. Settlement cracks usually run diagonally across the ceiling and tend to be wider at the top.
Drying and Curing in Materials
Cracks can also develop as building materials like drywall and concrete cure and dry over time. The contraction results in stress that leads to cracking. These types of cracks are typically long and run parallel with ceiling/wall joints.
Vibration and Impact
Excessive vibrations from slammed doors, bouncing from activities above, or impact against the wall/ceiling can cause cracks to form. The cracks tend to emanate from the point of impact.
Structural Issues
Major problems like a shifting foundation, weakened trusses, or moisture damage can cause extensive ceiling cracking. These cracks are often large, recurring, and part of bigger structural repairs needed.
Improper Installation
Errors during construction like inadequate framing, improper drywall installation, or lack of adequate finishing can lead to cracks down the road.
How to Repair Drywall Ceiling Cracks
Fixing cracks in drywall ceilings involves cleaning, preparing, and filling the cracks so you can paint over for a smooth finish. Here are step-by-step instructions:
Materials Needed
- Drywall joint compound
- Putty or utility knife
- Sandpaper
- Primer
- Paint
- Paintbrush and roller
Step 1: Clean the Crack
Use a dry cloth or small vacuum nozzle to remove any dirt or debris from the crack. This helps the filler adhere properly.
Step 2: Widen the Crack Slightly
Use a putty or utility knife to widen the crack a bit so it creates a better surface for the filler to grip.
Step 3: Apply Joint Compound
Fill the crack with drywall joint compound using a putty knife. Press the compound into the crack, smoothing it flush with the ceiling.
Step 4: Apply Second Coat if Needed
If the original crack was wider or deeper, allow the first coat to dry fully then apply a second coat of joint compound following the same process.
Step 5: Sand the Patch Smooth
Once dry, use medium grit sandpaper to smooth the patch and feather the edges so it blends into the ceiling.
Step 6: Prime and Paint
Prime the sanded patch then apply ceiling paint, feathering it out onto the existing ceiling paint. Allow the paint to fully dry.
Step 7: Touch Up Paint if Needed
Examine the patched area and use paint to cover any remaining flaws for a smooth finish.
How to Repair Plaster Ceiling Cracks
Plaster ceiling cracks can be repaired using similar methods. Here are some tips for fixing cracked plaster ceilings:
- Widen cracks with a utility knife before filling to help secure the patch
- Use setting-type joint compound designed for plaster rather than pre-mixed drywall compound
- Apply joint compound in thin, multiple layers, allowing each to dry before adding more
- Sand patched areas lightly between coats
- Prime before painting to seal the porous plaster
How to Repair Cracks in Concrete/Stucco Ceilings
Cracks in concrete or stucco ceilings require filling with concrete patching compounds:
Materials Needed
- Concrete patch compound
- Putty or utility knife
- Sandpaper
- Masonry primer
- Masonry paint
- Paintbrush
Step 1: Widen the Crack
Use a utility knife to open the crack so the patch material can adhere properly.
Step 2: Apply Concrete Patch
Fill the crack with concrete patch compound, pressing it in well and smoothing flush. Allow to fully cure.
Step 3: Sand the Patch
Once cured, sand the concrete patch smooth and blend edges into the ceiling.
Step 4: Prime and Paint
Apply masonry primer to the sanded area then paint with masonry ceiling paint. Allow the paint to fully dry.
How to Prevent Cracks from Recurring
To help prevent ceiling cracks from recurring, address any underlying issues:
- Monitor cracks for expansion to identify structural problems
- Renail any loose ceiling drywall to improve stability
- Level floors and foundations to minimize future settling
- Provide proper ventilation and humidity control
- Avoid direct impact to ceilings from bouncing balls, slammed doors, etc.
- Hire an engineer to evaluate and address any major structural deficiencies
Ongoing home maintenance and prompt crack repair can help minimize cracks and prevent growth into larger problems.
When to Call a Professional for Ceiling Crack Repairs
While most minor cracks can be repaired with a simple patch job, in some cases it’s best to call a professional:
- If the crack recurs and expands after repairing
- Multi-level cracks along an entire wall or ceiling
- Signs of moisture damage or leaks around the crack
- Large gaps wider than 1⁄4”
- Loose or sagging drywall around the crack
- Cracks accompanied by stained ceilings or water spots
- Cracks appearing in a newly constructed home
A professional can identify any underlying problems and ensure proper structural support is in place during repairs for optimal results.
FAQs About Fixing Ceiling Cracks
What is the best filler to use for repairing ceiling cracks?
For drywall, use drywall joint compound. In plaster, use a setting-type joint compound designed for plaster repair. Concrete/stucco ceilings can be patched with concrete patching compounds.
Should the cracks be widened before repairing?
Yes, widening the crack slightly with a utility knife allows the filler to grip better for a more durable repair.
How long does it take for joint compound or concrete patch to dry before sanding?
Joint compound typically dries in 24 hours. Allow concrete patch to cure for the time specified on the product directions, usually 24-72 hours.
What type of paint should be used when painting over repaired ceiling cracks?
Use ceiling paint that matches the existing paint sheen and quality. Primer should be applied first for best adhesion.
Why do ceiling cracks keep recurring after repairing them?
Recurring cracks indicate some type of underlying structural movement. This could require addressing footing, foundation, or framing issues to stop the cracks at their source.
Will small hairline cracks in a ceiling continue to expand over time?
Hairline cracks can remain stable for years if they resulted from initial drying or curing of materials. But if due to structure shifting, they may continue worsening without repairs.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks from forming in a new ceiling?
Proper installation by avoiding errors, allowing materials to dry thoroughly, controlling humidity, isolating vibration sources, and preventing impact can help minimize cracks in a new ceiling.
How can you tell if a ceiling crack is purely cosmetic or a sign of a structural issue?
The pattern (diagonal, parallel to joists, versus random), location, width, and whether it expands over time help indicate if it’s a purely cosmetic issue or structural. When in doubt, have a professional inspect.
Can I just paint over a hairline crack rather than patch and repair it?
While very fine cracks may temporarily seem to disappear under paint, it often reappears over time. Properly filling and repairing cracks provides the most lasting, seamless result.
Tips for Preventing Cracks in New Ceilings
Here are some useful tips builders and homeowners can follow to help minimize cracks when installing a new ceiling:
- Allow cement, mud, tape, etc. to fully dry as directed before continuing with next steps
- Avoid overwatering drywall mud which can shrink and crack as it dries
- Stagger drywall seams when hanging sheets to improve stability
- Securely fasten drywall to framing using recommended screw spacing
- Maintain temperature and humidity at optimal levels as materials and joints cure
- Isolate ceiling from vibration sources like heavy footsteps above
- Apply finishes gently to prevent damaging paper drywall face
- Install control joints to allow slight flexing without cracking
- Seal gaps around all penetrations including lights, vents, pipes
- Avoid direct ceiling impacts which can ripple and crack finishes
- Fix any structural deficiencies and deflection before installing ceiling
- Hire experienced contractors who follow best practices for crack prevention
With proper installation and curing time provided, it’s possible to minimize troublesome cracks in a new ceiling. But minor issues may still arise as the home settles. Being prepared with crack repair knowledge helps maintain your ceiling’s integrity.
Conclusion
Fixing common cracks in your ceiling is usually a manageable DIY project. With some simple tools and materials, you can repair the cracks and restore a smooth finish. For recurring or expanding cracks, take steps to address underlying structural causes. Seeking professional guidance can help ensure cracks are fixed properly at the source. With periodic maintenance and prompt crack repair, you can keep your ceilings looking pristine for years before major overhaul is needed. Just be sure to use the right materials and methods based on ceiling type. Patience in allowing patches to fully dry/cure makes a big difference in getting quality, lasting results.