Drywall cracks can be an alarming sight for homeowners. Many people believe that these cracks are indicative of a problem with their foundation, but this is not always the case. While some types of drywall cracks can be a sign of a foundation issue, the majority of them are simply due to age or environmental factors.
Cracks in Drywall: When Are They Serious?
Cracks in drywall are common and often mistaken as insignificant. However, when cracks appear in drywall, they can indicate a more serious underlying issue. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes cracks in drywall, when they should be taken seriously, and how they can be repaired.
Reasons Cracks Can Develop in Drywall
Cracks in drywall can be caused by a variety of issues. These include a change in temperature or humidity, settlement or shifting of the house’s structure, or even a plumbing leak. If the crack is long and thin, it is likely due to the house settling or shifting. If the crack is wide and jagged, it is likely due to a plumbing leak.
When Should You Take Cracks Seriously
When should cracks in drywall be taken seriously? If the cracks are more than 1/8th inch wide, they should be taken seriously as they could mean a more serious underlying issue. Cracks that are more than 1/4th inch wide are generally considered to be a sign of structural damage and should be inspected and repaired by a professional.
Repairing Drywall
Fortunately, cracks in drywall can be repaired relatively easily. First, the underlying issue should be addressed. If the crack is due to a plumbing leak, the leak should be fixed before attempting to repair the drywall. If the crack is due to structural damage, it should be inspected and repaired by a professional.
Once the underlying issue is addressed, the crack can be repaired. First, the crack should be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt. Next, the crack should be filled with a drywall repair compound. Once the compound has dried, it can be sanded down and painted to match the rest of the wall.
Underlying Causes of Cracks in Drywall
1 – Structural Movement
The most common cause of drywall cracks is structural movement. As a house settles, the foundation, framing, and drywall can all shift slightly. This can cause the drywall to crack, either in the middle of a wall or around windows and door frames. A house may also shift due to changes in temperature and humidity, or due to changes in the soil surrounding the foundation.
2 – Improper Installation
Another cause of drywall cracks is improper installation. If the drywall is not installed correctly, it can cause stress on the material which can result in cracking. The joints should be taped and mudded properly, and the drywall should be secured tightly to the framing.
3 – Water Damage
Another cause of drywall cracks is water damage. If water gets behind the drywall, it can cause the material to swell and crack. This is often caused by plumbing leaks, roof leaks, or poor drainage. It is important to inspect the home regularly for any signs of water damage and repair any leaks quickly to avoid drywall cracking.
4 – Vibration
In some cases, drywall cracks can also be caused by vibration. If there is an appliance or heavy item near the drywall, it can cause the wall to vibrate and crack over time. This can also be caused by excessive foot traffic near the wall.
5 – Poor Quality Drywall
Finally, drywall cracks can be caused by poor-quality drywall. If the drywall was not manufactured properly, it can be more prone to cracking. This is why it is important to only use high-quality drywall when constructing a home.
Conclusion
Cracks in drywall can vary in severity. Minor hairline cracks can be caused by the normal settling of a home, while larger cracks may be caused by more serious issues such as foundation issues, plumbing leaks, or roof leaks. If the crack is wider than ⅛ inch, or if the crack is uneven or jagged, it is likely a sign of a more serious issue. In this case, it is important to investigate the source of the problem to prevent further damage. Furthermore, it is a good idea to have a professional inspect the area for any additional issues.
If you are looking for the best drywall repair services, contact Patch Doctors Drywall. We offer drywall and remodeling services in the El Paso area. Give us a call and let us know how we can help today!
