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Owning a home is one’s pride and joy, but on that joy, wall cracks can appear, dulling the excitement. Wall cracks are a common problem in many homes, and can be caused by various reasons. It could be weather changes or even everyday wear and tear that can cause wall cracks. Just like any common problem, you can repair a wall crack at home also. But how to repair a wall crack at home? Well, it can be a simple process without involving a contractor every time you see a wall crack. With knowledge and some basic materials, you can fix cracks in the walls and make them look anew. So let’s get fixing!
But, before we assemble our tools, let’s see what causes wall cracks.
What Causes Wall Cracks?
As mentioned, various factors can cause cracks in the wall. Some common reasons for wall cracks can be:
1. Moisture and Humidity
When there’s more moisture in the air or if there’s a water leak in the foundations, then it can cause building materials to expand and contract. With time, this can add pressure to your walls, making cracks appear.
2. Material Deformation
Your building materials have a natural elasticity, but when too much pressure is there, they can deform. If your building materials can’t handle the added pressure, wall cracks can appear.
3. Chemical Reactions
Another reason for cracks in walls can be chemical reactions. When metal rods corrode or other chemical reactions happen within construction products, then it can weaken your walls. This can lead to wall cracks as well.
4. Foundation Shifting
If the foundation for your home is poor or shifts because of soil settlement or moisture on the ground, then it could also add cracks to the walls.
5. Growth of Plants
Sometimes, plants can grow near or under the walls, which can disturb the foundation of the walls, leading to cracks. Moreover, moisture from plants growing near the walls can seep into them as well, making the cracks worse.
Now that you know what causes wall cracks, let’s see how to fix cracks in the walls.
Related Read: How to Stop Water Leakage from the Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Repair a Wall Crack at Home?
Before you begin patching walls, know what type of wall crack it is. Some could be minor cracks, while others can indicate a bigger problem in the structure of your home.
Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Thin cracks are called hairline cracks that are a result of minor issues, such as weather changes.
- If the cracks are running from the floor to the ceiling, then they could be vertical cracks. These are also caused by minor issues like humidity.
- If the cracks are parallel to the floor, then they could be horizontal cracks. They can show issues with foundation or soil settlement.
- The cracks that run diagonally and intersect with other wall cracks are called diagonal or stair-step cracks. They can be a sign of major issues such as foundation shifting.
You’ll also need some essential materials to begin fixing your walls, so gather these items:
- Putty knife or scrapper
- Wall putty or wall cracks solution
- Sandpaper
- Paint
- Rollers and paintbrushes
Once that’s all done, follow these simple steps to fill in cracks in walls at home:
1. To Repair a Wall Crack in Drywalls:
Drywall, a common type of wall panel, is made with gypsum plaster and is inserted between a couple of sheets of paper. These types of panels provide a smooth, even surface for interior walls.
So, if you want to fix cracks in drywalls, then here are some steps to follow:
- Purchase a joint compound. Premix or setting type will do.
- Cut a V-shape along the wall cracks.
- Properly clean the area you want to fix. If there’s any dirt or debris, clean it with a wet cloth. Let it dry completely.
- Once that’s done, apply the wall cracks solution evenly along the wall cracks.
- If the cracks in the walls are deep, then apply layers. Let each layer dry completely before you apply another coat.
- Once dry, you can use sandpaper to smooth the surface until flat.
- Pick your choice of paint and apply it over the repaired wall to match the rest of the wall.
2. To Repair a Wall Crack in Concrete Walls:
In Indian homes, concrete walls are common. Moreover, you can find concrete walls in basements and garages, if you have any. Wall cracks in concrete walls can occur because of shifts in the foundation, weather changes, and water damage.
Here are some ways to repair a wall crack in concrete walls:
- Start by widening the crack a bit by using a chisel.
- Clean the cracked area with a brush to remove all the debris.
- Then, use a bonding adhesive to coat the wall crack. You can use a paintbrush to do so.
- Once done, apply coats of wall cracks solution using a putty knife. Press it into the wall cracks until it’s flat against the wall.
- Apply it well so that the crack solution blends in with the wall.
3. To Repair a Wall Crack in Plaster Walls:
Since plaster walls are common in old homes, wall cracks are prone to happen. Wall cracks in plaster walls can occur because of shifting in the foundation, weather changes, or plaster ageing naturally.
Here’s how you can repair a wall crack in a plaster wall:
- Gently press the wall to see if the plaster comes off.
- After that, clean the area and widen the crack just a bit with the putty knife.
- Next, spread the wall crack solution on the crack in the wall to fill it completely.
- If the wall crack is huge, then you can apply self-adhesive fibreglass mesh tape before patching the wall.
- Then, apply a couple of layers of joint compound you brought over the tape.
- Lastly, paint over the patched walls to match the rest of the walls.
Final Words
To repair a wall crack at home doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds. You just need to right tools and materials to patch up the cracks in the wall. With a little effort and work, your walls will look as good as new!
Also Read: Top Wall Tile Design for Homes to Elevate Your Interiors
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. How to fix cracked walls permanently at home?
To fix cracked walls at home, you can follow these steps:
- Clean the crack to get rid of dirt and debris.
- Apply bonding adhesive to make the solution stick to the crack.
- Next, use wall putty to fill the cracks. If the gap is big, then use a mesh tape.
- Spread the crack solution evenly and let it dry completely.
- Lastly, sand and paint over the wall evenly for them to match the rest of the walls.
Q. Which cracks in walls are serious?
Wall cracks can be serious when they are 25 millimetres (2.5 centimetres) or wider. Such wall cracks can be a sign of foundation damage, building material deformation, or something more serious.
Q. Are cracks in walls normal?
Yes, wall cracks can be normal. Many factors can cause cracks in walls and ceilings. Mostly, they happen because of old homes and foundations ageing. However, other factors, such as foundation shifting, temperature changes, and more can cause wall cracks.
