What do vertical cracks in the wall mean

This involves scraping away the loose tape and crumbled bits of drywall mud, sanding the surface smooth, and then filling the crack with drywall compound and applying new tape.

The trick to getting a smooth wall is to apply two to three very thin coats of drywall compound over the paper tape, and sand each coat after it dries before applying the next coat.

For long-lasting repairs, re-tape cracks rather than filling them with spackle. Disclosure: BobVila. You agree that BobVila. All rights reserved. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Don't want to do it yourself? Get free, no-commitment estimates from licensed general contractors near you. Find local pros. It is extremely common for newly built homes to develop vertical cracks in the walls a few months after the construction because the moisture in lumber varies and causes contortions when it shrinks.

These contortions show themselves in the form of vertical cracks in the wall. You may also experience visual cracks developing above doors and windows, this is very common. These cracks are caused by the shrinkage of the header and will need to be addressed by a professional painting contractor in Kansas City with experience permanently concealing cracks and fixing them properly.

Some builders bugger up the taping on seams, making the walls more susceptible to cracking vertically. There are many different reasons why you might be seeing a vertical crack on a wall in your home. It all depends on the size and location of the crack. This creates a wider surface area and will improve how the jointing compound sticks to the surface.

Be sure to apply it in thin layers instead of one thick one. This will allow you to get a smooth, even finish. While the compound is still wet, you should apply a fibreglass mesh over it to cover the crack and the surrounding area. You will need to allow the compound to dry.

You will need to let each layer dry thoroughly and sand the area down before applying the next, so this is not a job to be rushed. As you add each layer, increase the surface area of the compound every time, as this will also create a smooth finish. Once the final layer is dry wait around 24 hours or so to ensure this is the case , give this a light sand. Then wipe away any excess dust and paint over the dried compound so it matches the rest of the wall.

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A house fire can be devastating. While usually, thanks to devices such as smoke and heat alarms, everyone gets out safely, possessions and valuables can be destroyed.

Back to top. When is a crack in a wall serious? When should you worry about cracks in walls? The cracks are wide Hairline cracks of less than one millimetre in width or slight cracks of between one and five millimetres are generally not a cause for concern. The cracks run diagonally If your home has walls that are plastered, then straight vertical cracks typically form when the plaster expands in humidity and shrinks as it dries.