If you have drywall cracks, you’ll want to fix them right away. They are not only aesthetically unpleasant, they can also be a sign of serious structural damage to your home. Doing it right the first time will keep them from recurring.
There are a variety of causes for drywall cracks, but most of them are related to moisture. Moisture can cause wood to expand and contract, causing small drywall cracks that appear over time. However, larger cracks indicate a more serious problem. These cracks can occur on either the surface of a wall or the entire structure of a home. A structural crack can be caused by a variety of factors, including pests, foundation settlement, and deterioration of the framing.
One of the best ways to determine whether a drywall crack is the result of foundation damage is to hire an experienced technician to inspect your home. He or she will be able to provide you with a free estimate, which will allow you to decide whether or not you need to repair the crack. This way, you won’t be wasting money on repairs that will only make matters worse.
A common symptom of settling is a drywall crack, especially in rooms with windows. It is also important to keep in mind that a crack is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to settling issues. While some settling is a normal part of the aging process, a large and widespread crack in a wall can be a signal that your foundation needs a good checkup.
Drywall cracks are easy to repair, but they can be tricky to diagnose. You need to know the exact cause of your drywall crack to prevent repeat repairs. The following tips will help you identify a drywall crack and learn how to fix it. When the damage is to big and you don’t have any knowledge in repairing a drywall its nest to leave the job to a professional St. Petersburg carpenter.
First, you’ll want to inspect the area where the crack is located. Whether it’s on the surface of a wall or a section of the home’s frame, it’s a good idea to cover the area with painters’ tape to protect the surrounding walls and trim. Another option is to use fiberglass mesh drywall tape. Once you’ve covered the crack, you can apply a patch compound or joint compound. When using a mud or patch compound, it’s best to apply the material to the crack as far out as possible and then smooth it out about 6 inches on both sides of the joint.
Finally, you’ll need drywall screws. Those with countersunk heads can be used for both the surface and the inside of the crack. Insert the screws into the wood behind the drywall, but not through the paper layer. Be sure to insert the screws on both sides of the crack.
After you’ve repaired your drywall, be sure to seal any openings to ensure that water and other moisture don’t get inside your home. Sealing the holes will not only help prevent future leaks, it will also protect your interior and exterior from potential pests.