Cracked drywall is a frequent issue faced by homeowners, often leading to unsightly blemishes on walls and ceilings. Understanding why drywall cracks is crucial to addressing and preventing this problem. If you’re wondering, “why does drywall crack?” This article will help you understand the reasons behind it and provide some solutions.
Causes of Drywall Crack
- Poor Tape Application
- Home Settling
- Water Damage
- Lack of Climate Control
- Foundation Issues
Poor Tape Application
One of the leading causes of drywall cracks is poor tape application. Drywall tape is used to cover the seams where two drywall sheets meet. They put the tape in drywall mud, sand it, and paint over it to make a smooth surface. If you do not apply the tape correctly, it may separate from the wall, causing cracks.
Solutions
Improper Installation: The tape must be firmly embedded in the joint compound to ensure it adheres properly. If you do not apply the compound evenly or press the tape securely, it can lift off the wall.
Solution: To fix this, remove the loose tape and any crumbling compound. Apply a fresh layer of joint compound, press the tape firmly into it, and smooth it out. Allow it to dry completely before sanding and painting.
Using the Wrong Type of Mud: Not all joint compounds are suitable for all stages of the taping process. Using the wrong type of mud can cause the tape to lift and create cracks.
Solution: Use the appropriate joint compound for each stage of taping. All-purpose mud is versatile, but for embedding tape, you might need a setting-type compound known as “hot mud.” It dries faster and is less prone to shrinking.
Mesh Tape vs. Paper Tape: There’s a debate among drywall professionals about using mesh tape versus paper tape. Mesh tape is self-adhesive and easier to work with but requires a setting-type compound to prevent cracks.
Solution: When using mesh tape, always use hot mud to embed it. All-purpose mud works well for paper tape, as long as you apply it correctly.
Home Settling
Newly constructed homes often experience settling. As the house settles and the materials adjust, small cracks may appear in the drywall because of changes in temperature.
Solutions
Natural Settling Process: As the house settles, it can shift slightly, causing stress on the drywall and leading to cracks.
Solution: Suggested to wait for the first year after moving into a new home before making significant repairs. This is because the house needs time to settle. Monitor the cracks during this time. After completing the settling, apply joint compound and tape to fix them.
Seasonal Changes: Temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause materials to expand and contract, contributing to settling-related cracks.
Solution: Maintain a consistent indoor climate to minimize the impact of seasonal changes. Use a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed to keep humidity levels stable.
Water Damage
Water damage is another common cause of drywall cracks. Water can enter the home through leaks in the roof, windows, or plumbing, leading to damage that causes the drywall to swell and crack.
Solutions
Roof Leaks: Water from a leaking roof can seep into the walls and ceiling, damaging the drywall.
Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak first. Remove any damaged drywall, let the area dry completely, and replace it with new drywall. Apply joint compound, tape, and paint to finish.
Plumbing Issues: Burst pipes or leaks within the walls can lead to water damage.
Solution: Fix the plumbing issue before addressing the drywall. Once you repair the leak, follow the same steps as for roof leaks: remove damaged drywall, let the area dry, replace, and finish.
Window Leaks: Poorly sealed windows can allow water to enter, damaging nearby drywall.
Solution: Reseal or replace the window to prevent further leaks. Repair the drywall as described above.
Lack of Climate Control
Unregulated climate control can cause significant damage to drywall. Variations in temperature and humidity can make drywall expand and contract, leading to cracks.
Solutions
Unoccupied Homes: Homes left unattended for long periods without climate control can experience extreme temperature and humidity changes.
Solution: Invest in a modern thermostat that allows you to control the climate remotely. Ensure the home remains at a stable temperature and humidity level even when unoccupied.
Seasonal Homes: Vacation homes or seasonal residences are particularly vulnerable to this issue.
Solution: Similar to unoccupied homes, use a smart thermostat to maintain a stable environment year-round.
Foundation Issues
Foundation issues are a more severe cause of drywall cracks. When the foundation of a house shifts, it can create significant stress on the structure, leading to cracks in the drywall.
Solutions
Foundation Settling: Just like a new home settling, foundation settling can create cracks that are usually more serious and long-lasting.
Solution: Consult a structural engineer to assess and repair foundation issues. Once you stabilize the foundation, repair the drywall cracks.
Heaving and Settling: Foundations can heave upward or settle downward, causing recurring cracks.
Solution: Stabilize the foundation first. Fix drywall cracks by removing damaged sections, applying joint compound and tape, sanding, and painting after repairing the foundation.
Signs of Foundation Issues: Cracks caused by foundation problems often have a stair-step pattern or originate from door frames. These cracks might be wider than a quarter-inch and could come with bulging drywall.
Solution: Look for these signs and consult a professional if you suspect foundation issues. Fix the foundation first before repairing the drywall.
Bottom Line
Understanding the reasons behind drywall cracks can help you take proactive measures to prevent and repair them effectively. Addressing the root cause of issues is important. These issues include inadequate tape usage, house settling, water damage, lack of temperature regulation, and foundation problems.
By addressing the root cause, we can achieve a long-lasting solution. To keep your walls and ceilings looking good, use the right repair methods and take care of your home to prevent cracks.
Contact ROA Drywall
If you need drywall repair services, contact ROA Drywall. We offer both drywall crack repair and drywall installation services. As a local general contractor, we also provide construction services and address structural problems. Contact us today for structural issues, any kind of drywall panels, foundation shifting, remodeling, and structural damage issues.