How to Repair Drywall Cracks

Drywall can crack for a variety of reasons, but the most common are settling or changes in moisture. Fortunately, most cracks are quickly and easily repairable. In fact, many people can repair a drywall crack themselves with the right tools and supplies, although some might need help from drywall repair or interior painting services.

This guide will cover how to repair small and large drywall cracks, how to finish repaired drywall before painting it, and ways you can prevent drywall cracks from happening in the first place.

What Causes Drywall Cracks?

Drywall cracks are common. As drywall is not a structural element, cracks in it seldom cause problems, although they can be an indicator of other issues. Here are some of the most common causes.

House Settling

House settling is normal. Different parts of the house shift over time. Most new houses finish settling after two months, but it can sometimes take longer, and its normal to experience some settling for the first two years. This is particularly the case if you have a more variable climate, and if the soil freezes and then thaws.

This normal settling can cause minor cracks in your drywall. Consider not repairing these cracks right away as the house may continue to settle and you can easily end up repairing the same crack several times.

Temperature and Humidity Changes

Normal seasonal changes in temperature and humidity can also cause drywall cracks due to the drywall expanding and contracting from temperature or expanding from moisture. You're likely to see cracks any time there is a temperature strain. If you have cracks wider than 1/4 inch, you should get your foundation checked, same as if the door sticks or walls bow.

Poor Drywall Installation

Drywall that was never installed properly in the first place can often crack. This may require more repair work. Always hire a good drywall contractor. However, don't assume cracks are caused by poor installation - check for other causes before blaming your contractor.

Structural Movement or Foundation Issues

Large cracks in drywall, repeated cracks in the same place when the house should have settled, or cracks associated with other issues such as sticking doors or windows may indicate a problem with your foundation. You should get a professional inspection if you see these symptoms. Don't attempt to fix foundation problems yourself.

Improper Taping or Fastener Pops

Drywall joints are held together with tape. If the tape is not applied correctly, air bubbles can form under it, resulting in cracks along the joints. Drywall fasteners that are not installed correctly can pop, resulting in a similar situation. You may need to retape the drywall.

Types of Drywall Damage

Identifying what kind of issue you have involves knowing what type of damage you have. Here  are the most common:

Hairline Cracks

Hairline cracks are usually caused by seasonal changes and normal settling. These are thin cracks that are typically less than 1/8 inch wide. They are most common in the winter and are typically cosmetic. If they don't change, you don't have an ongoing problem and can repair them.

Stress Cracks

Stress cracks are most often seen above your doors or windows. These are also caused by settling and moisture, but happen when the framing moves. As the door or window frame shifts, the drywall doesn't shift with it, resulting in cracks.

Nail Pops

A small circular bulge in your drywall is a nail pop. These are most often caused by the house settling. The nail holding the drywall moves as the frame shifts, loosening the nail. This might be alarming, but is typically cosmetic.

Small Holes and Dents

Holes and dents in your drywall are most often caused by accidental impacts, such as moving furniture or slamming doors open. They need to be repaired quickly because they often worsen over time.

Large Holes or Severely Damaged Areas

Large holes...ones you can put your fist through...can result when smaller holes are not repaired or from more significant impacts. Severely damaged areas, though, can be a sign you have something structural going on. If you have this kind of damage and are not particularly handy, you may need a drywalll professional.

How to Fix Small Drywall Cracks

Again, wait to fix a small crack until it looks like it's not changing or getting any worse, or it will only open back up again. You will need a utility knife, drywall tape, joint compound, and sandpaper (you'll need 100-grit and 220-grit ). Follow the following steps:

1. Using the utility knife, slightly widen the crack. This might seem counterintuitive, but it makes repair easier.
2. Remove loose debris using sandpaper and a water-dampened rag.
3. Apply drywall tape over the crack. Make sure to apply it evenly and check for air bubbles - trapped air can reopen the crack.
4. Spread joint compound over the tape.
5. Allow it to dry completely. Check the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Use the 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the repair.
7. If you aren't happy, apply a second coat of joint compound and repeat.
8. Prime and repaint the area. You may find you need to repaint a wider area to make the repair less obvious.

How to Repair Nail Pops in Drywall

Nail pops can look unsightly, but seldom cause problems. Resist the temptation to simply hammer the nail back in - this works for a while, but it will only loosen again. Instead:

1. Reset the popped nail. If you can't, remove it. If the nail is missing, don't worry.
2. Insert two drywall screws in the stud, one an inch above the nail and one an inch below.
3. Apply joint compound over the screw heads.
4. Sand smooth with 220-grit sandpaper.
5. Prime and repaint the area.

How to Patch Small Drywall Holes

Small holes are typically easy to repair. You may need a mesh patch for holes of more than an inch or so. Repair it by:

1. Thoroughly cleaning the damaged area with a water-dampened rag.
2. Apply the mesh patch, if needed.
3. Cover the patch or hole with joint compound.
4. Feather the edges so the repair is less obvious.
5. Sand down.
6. If there's still a hole, repeat the process.
7. Prime and repaint the area.

How to Fix Large Drywall Cracks or Holes

This is a more advanced repair, so consider getting help from professional drywall repair services. If you are feeling up to it, though:

Step 1 - Cut Out the Damaged Area

Turn off power to the area. Use a stud finder to find and mark the nearest stud on either side of the hole. Then use a carpenter's square to draw a line an inch above and below the damaged area. Use a drywall saw to cut along those lines until you reach the wall stud. Then cut carefully a further 3/4 inch with a utility knife. You want the edge of the patch to be over the stud.

Dispose of the broken, loose, and damaged drywall.

Step 2 - Install Backing Support

Insert wood backing strips behind the opening and secure them with drywall screws . These strips should be 3-inch scrap lumber or 3/4-inch plywood, whichever is easier, and should be 2 to 4 inches longer than the patch. Make sure the screws are slightly below the drywall surface.

Step 3 - Measure and Cut a Drywall Patch

Carefully measure the opening and cut a drywall patch to fit snugly. You don't want to have to do this twice if you can avoid it, so be very careful with your measuring. You don't want to have to force it in.

Step 4 - Install the Drywall Patch

Slide the patch into place, then use drywall screws to secure it to the wood backing. Again, sink the screws slightly below the surface. Be careful and make sure the screws are an inch from the edge of the patch.

Step 5 - Tape and Seal the Patch

Secure the patch further by using paper or tape mesh along the lines. Then apply joint compound in thin layers, feathering the edges. Make sure each layer is dry before applying the next - this can take some time. Then sand smooth.

Then prime and repaint.

Mesh Tape vs Paper Tape: Which Is Better?

So, which kind of drywall tape should you use? There are two kinds: Mesh and paper.

Mesh Tape Benefits

Mesh tape's primary benefit is that it is much, much easier to use. It's self-adhesive, you don't have to use compound underneath, and its great for small repairs.

Paper Tape Benefits

Paper tape does require compound underneath. However, it's much stronger and can handle stress cracks, and tends to last longer, reducing the number of cracks you have to repair again.

Sanding, Priming, and Preparing Drywall for Painting

Once you have made your repairs, restoring the appearance of the area requires painting. Joint compound takes paint differently, so you'll need a primer. Here are instructions for correctly sanding and priming.

Cleaning the Repair Area

First, clean the repair area with a damp cloth. This is just to remove dust and debris.

Proper Sanding Techniques

Use fine grit sandpaper. We recommend 220, but anything down to 120 will work if that's what you have. Don't over-sand...you risk having the crack or hole reopen.

Why Priming is Essential

Too many people think they can just paint over with drywall paint. This can result in an uneven finish and flashing as the paint bonds differently to the joint compound. Prepare the surface properly and use a primer that is designed for drywall, ideally one that is also a sealer...this will finish off the repair by filling in small holes and pores. Most drywall primers are water-based, low VOC products. PVA primer is good for new drywall, but not as necessary for repairs.

Tips to Prevent Drywall Cracks from Returning

It's frustrating when you fix a crack and then a year later, its back in the same location. Here are some tips for preventing cracks.

• Re-secure loose drywall with screws, not nails.
• Use proper taping technique, taking great care not to create air bubbles.
• Apply compound in thin layers. This takes longer as you have to wait between coats, but also prevents air bubbles.
• Control indoor humidity. Keep your HVAC system in good order and consider a dehumidifier in problem rooms.
• Inspect and address any structural or foundation problems.
• Consider a buffer or stopper for doors that tend to be opened quickly.

Why Choose a Professional Painting Company

While you can repair drywall yourself, a professional painting company can better handle larger cracks and holes, and they will use the correct paint and primer, leaving your wall looking much better. By employing a professional you can get your room back to its original appearance faster and with less hassle, especially if it's a room in which you are entertaining or if you are looking to sell.

Drywall repair is relatively easy, but larger holes and damage may require a professional. Also, you should always call a professional if you suspect damage to your foundation. Reach out to your local Ace Hardware Painting Services office for professional drywall repair services.