What Causes Drywall Cracks?
Cracks in drywall can be a common issue in a home. Over time, houses move and shift around to settle in. It’s because of this movement that cracks develop. Most of the time, it can be fixed with tape and paint. Cracks usually develop along high-stress areas like doors, windows, and ceilings. It can be stressful and frustrating to see these cracks in your home. We train our team to fix these thin cracks and know if more extensive repairs are needed.
Foundation Settlement
Drywall cracks are usually found on the weakest parts of a wall, including around doors and windows. Over time, buildings and homes settle in and move around. The type of foundation laid at the bottom of a home can influence how much movement can occur.
For example, homes built on fill-dirt have a greater chance of settling in. It is common for new homes to settle in the first year. Tiny movements in the ground aren’t dangerous, but they can cause minor and non-damaging cracks in the weakest parts of your walls.
Seasonal Changes
Going from summer to winter and vice versa brings temperature fluctuations, and the drywall could expand and shrink. Strong winds and storms may also contribute to crack formations too. It’s essential to keep your home climate controlled, which is why when vacation homes sit vacant for too long, hairline cracks can occur. If you notice brown or yellow stains along these cracks, it could result from water damage. Your drywall has become wet and soft, which can lead to hairline cracks developing.
Poor Construction
The initial drywall installation may have been lackluster. Everyone who builds a home knows the amount of trust that goes into a home builder’s hands. People are human, and sometimes mistakes are made. Faulty taping of drywall may be to blame for cracking issues. Most of the time, it’s an easy fix with re-taping and gluing and finished with cosmetic updates.
Preventing and Fixing Drywall Cracks
Seeing cracks on your walls and ceiling can be a very stressful thing, but most of the time, it’s an easy cosmetic fix. Our team at R&J Painting will know how serious the problem is and how to fix it. If it’s a deeper foundational issue, then you should consult with a foundation specialist.
Give us a call if you notice hairline cracks, and our crew will come out and evaluate your situation. Most of the time, our staff can fix these issues with tape and paint. It’s important to keep an eye on these kinds of cracks, but don’t go straight to immediate panic when you come across them. There is a solution to every problem!
Article Inspirations
Buyers Ask
Bob Villa
Drywall 101
