A crack in the ceiling usually refers to a break or fissure in the surface of a ceiling, which can be caused by various factors such as the settling of the building’s foundation, temperature changes, moisture, or structural issues. In some cases, it may simply be a cosmetic issue, while in other cases it may indicate a more serious underlying problem that requires attention.
It’s important to have a professional inspect the crack and determine the cause and severity of the issue.
Types of cracks in the ceiling
- Hairline crack
- Vertical crack
- Horizontal crack
- Diagonal crack
- Spiderweb crack
Hairline crack
A hairline crack is a very thin and shallow crack that appears on the surface of the ceiling. These cracks are usually less than 1/16th of an inch wide and may not extend through the entire thickness of the ceiling.
Hairline cracks are typically cosmetic and do not indicate any significant structural issues. However, if they are numerous or appear in conjunction with other types of cracks, it may be a sign of an underlying issue.
Vertical crack
A vertical crack runs straight up and down the ceiling, perpendicular to the floor. These cracks can be caused by various factors, including foundation settling, moisture damage, or framing issues.
In some cases, they may be minor and only require cosmetic repairs, but in other cases, they may indicate more serious structural issues that require attention.
Horizontal crack
A horizontal crack runs parallel to the floor along the length of the ceiling. These cracks are often caused by structural issues such as overloaded joists or foundation settling.
Horizontal cracks can be especially concerning as they may indicate a weakened or failing ceiling structure that could pose a safety hazard if left unrepaired.
Diagonal crack
A diagonal crack runs at an angle across the ceiling, typically between 30 and 60 degrees from horizontal. These cracks are often caused by stresses on the ceiling due to shifting of the building foundation or framing issues.
The severity of a diagonal crack depends on the angle and width of the crack as well as the underlying cause. In some cases, they may be cosmetic, but in other cases, they may indicate serious structural issues that require repair.
Spiderweb crack
A spiderweb crack, also known as a crazed crack, is a network of small cracks that resemble the pattern of a spiderweb. These cracks are often caused by stress on the ceiling due to temperature changes, settling, or other factors.
Spiderweb cracks are typically cosmetic and do not indicate any significant structural issues.
Causes of a crack in the ceiling
- Foundation settling or shifting
- Structural issues with the building
- Overloaded or undersized ceiling joists
- Temperature changes cause building materials to expand or contract
- Moisture damage or leaks
- Poorly installed or inadequate support for ceiling materials
- Shrinkage or drying of building materials such as drywall or plaster
- Age-related wear and tear on the building
- Earthquakes or other natural disasters
- Vibrations or movement from nearby traffic or construction
1. Foundation settling or shifting
As a building settles over time, it may cause the foundation to shift or settle, leading to cracks in the ceiling. This can be a serious issue that may require foundation repair to prevent further damage to the building.
2. Structural issues with the building
Structural issues such as overloaded or undersized ceiling joists, inadequate support for ceiling materials, or framing issues can cause cracks in the ceiling.
These issues should be inspected and addressed by a professional to prevent further damage.
3. Overloaded or undersized ceiling joists
Overloading or under sizing of ceiling joists can cause the ceiling to sag or crack. This issue can be addressed by reinforcing or replacing the joists as necessary.
4. Temperature changes cause building materials to expand or contract
Temperature changes can cause building materials such as drywall or plaster to expand or contract, leading to cracks in the ceiling.
This can be addressed by ensuring that the building is properly insulated and ventilated to regulate temperature changes.
5. Moisture damage or leaks
Moisture damage or leaks can cause the ceiling to weaken and crack over time. This issue should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage and potential mold growth.
6. Poorly installed or inadequate support for ceiling materials
Poor installation or inadequate support for ceiling materials such as drywall or plaster can cause the ceiling to crack or sag over time.
This issue can be addressed by ensuring that the materials are installed properly and have adequate support.
7. Shrinkage or drying of building materials such as drywall or plaster
Building materials such as drywall or plaster can shrink or dry over time, leading to cracks in the ceiling. This can be addressed by repairing or replacing the affected areas.
8. Age-related wear and tear on the building
Over time, buildings can experience wear and tear that can lead to cracks in the ceiling. This issue can be addressed by repairing or replacing the affected areas as needed.
9. Earthquakes or other natural disasters
Earthquakes or other natural disasters can cause significant damage to the building, including cracks in the ceiling. This issue should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the building.
10. Vibrations or movement from nearby traffic or construction
Vibrations or movement from nearby traffic or construction can cause the building to shift or settle, leading to cracks in the ceiling.
This issue can be addressed by ensuring that the building is properly designed to withstand such vibrations and movement.
Methods to fix cracks in the ceiling
There are mainly 4 types of methods used to fix cracks in the ceiling, depending on the type and severity of the crack. Here are some common methods:
- Patching with joint compound
- Tape and joint compound
- Plaster repair
- Ceiling fan brace
How to fix a crack in the ceiling
Fix the crack in the ceiling by patching it with a joint compound
Materials:
- Joint compound or spackle
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Paint
Steps:
- Clean the area around the crack. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove any loose debris or dust.
- Apply joint compound. Use a putty knife to apply a thin layer of joint compound over the ceiling crack. Be sure to spread the compound evenly and smoothly.
- Allow the joint compound to dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time, which can vary depending on the thickness of the compound.
- Sand the surface smoothly. Use sandpaper to gently sand the dried joint compound until it is smooth and level with the surrounding ceiling.
- Apply a second coat of joint compound if required. If the crack is still visible after the first layer of the joint compound is dry, apply a second layer following the same steps as before.
- Sand again. Once the second layer of the joint compound is dry, use sandpaper to sand the surface smoothly.
- Paint the repaired area. Once the joint compound is completely dry and the surface is smooth, paint the repaired area to match the rest of the ceiling. Allow the paint to dry completely before touching or hanging anything from the ceiling.
Fix the crack in the ceiling with tape and joint compound
Materials:
- Self-adhesive mesh tape
- Joint compound
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Paint
Steps:
- Clean the area around the crack. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove any loose debris or dust.
- Apply the mesh tape. Cut a piece of self-adhesive mesh tape to fit the length of the crack. Apply the tape directly over the crack, pressing it firmly onto the ceiling.
- Apply joint compound. Use a putty knife to apply a thin layer of joint compound over the tape. Be sure to spread the compound evenly and smoothly, covering the entire tape.
- Allow the joint compound to dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time, which can vary depending on the thickness of the compound.
- Sand the surface smoothly. Use sandpaper to gently sand the dried joint compound until it is smooth and level with the surrounding ceiling.
- Apply a second coat of joint compound if required. If the crack is still visible after the first layer of the joint compound is dry, apply a second layer following the same steps as before.
- Sand again. Once the second layer of the joint compound is dry, use sandpaper to sand the surface smoothly.
- Paint the repaired area. Once the joint compound is completely dry and the surface is smooth, paint the repaired area to match the rest of the ceiling. Allow the paint to dry completely before touching or hanging anything from the ceiling.
Fix the crack in the ceiling with plaster repair
Materials:
- Plaster
- Water
- Paint scraper or putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Paint
Steps:
- Clean the area around the crack. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove any loose debris or dust.
- Mix the plaster. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing plaster with water. Mix the plaster until it has a thick consistency.
- Apply the plaster to the crack. Use a paint scraper or putty knife to apply the plaster to the crack. Fill the crack with the plaster and smooth it out with the scraper or knife.
- Allow the plaster to dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time, which can vary depending on the thickness of the plaster.
- Sand the surface smoothly. Use sandpaper to gently sand the dried plaster until it is smooth and level with the surrounding ceiling.
- Apply a second coat of plaster (if required). If the crack is still visible after the first layer of plaster then apply a second layer of plaster and smooth it out with the scraper or knife. Allow the second layer to dry completely.
- Sand the surface again. Once the second layer of plaster is dry, use sandpaper to smooth it out and blend it with the surrounding ceiling.
- Prime and paint the repaired area. Apply a coat of primer to the repaired area to ensure good adhesion of the paint. Once the primer is dry, paint the repaired area to match the surrounding ceiling.
- Inspect the repair. After the paint has dried, inspect the repaired area to make sure it is smooth and flush with the surrounding ceiling. If necessary, touch up the paint to ensure a seamless finish.
Fix the crack in the ceiling by the ceiling fan brace
Materials:
- Ceiling fan brace
- Drill
- Screws
- Joint compound
- Drywall tape
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Paint
Steps:
- Turn off the electricity. Before starting any work on your ceiling, turn off the electricity in the room where you will be working.
- Remove the ceiling fan. Use a screwdriver to remove the ceiling fan from the brace and set it aside.
- Install the ceiling fan brace. Install a new ceiling fan brace to replace the old one. Use a drill and screws to secure the new brace to the ceiling joists.
- Apply joint compound. Use a putty knife to apply joint compound to the crack in the ceiling. Spread the compound over the crack and smooth it out.
- Apply drywall tape. Place a strip of drywall tape over the crack and press it firmly into the joint compound.
- Apply a second coat of joint compound. Apply a second coat of joint compound over the drywall tape, making sure to cover it completely. Smooth out the joint compound and let it dry completely.
- Sand the surface. Use sandpaper to smooth out the joint compound and make it level with the surrounding ceiling.
- Paint the surface. Once the joint compound is dry and smooth, paint the surface to match the surrounding ceiling.
- Reinstall the ceiling fan. Once the paint is dry, reattach the ceiling fan to the brace and turn the electricity back on.
