Home renovations come with their share of problems. If you are looking to fix or replace some parts then you might want to consider fixing cracks in walls and ceilings. There are countless ways to do this and the method you choose depends upon the size of the crack, its depth and other associated issues.

A common problem in houses is cracking in plaster walls. This happens due to various reasons such as water damage, improper installation, thin coats, sand dust, load bearing, uneven floors etc. These damages are usually caused by shifting of foundation or expansion of the house.

For example, if your home has shifted a little bit on one side because of soil erosion or heavy rains you may find that there is unevenness in your floor which can lead to cracks in the walls.

Also, if your house was not properly constructed for structural integrity then it will expand during rainy seasons causing horizontal cracks in the structure.

If you notice any cracks in your walls, don’t panic. You can easily get them repaired. All you need is to call a professional who can repair these cracks using various methods for crack stitching.

They will use different techniques depending upon the type of stone used for the construction of your house and the severity of the crack.

Common Causes Of Wall Cracks

Cracking or hole in the walls can be caused by several factors like; structural defects or structural problems, improper installation of doors, windows and other fixtures, poor drainage system leading to wet spots, humidity/moisture content in walls, improper insulation, earthquake and many more. Let us discuss each of these factors in detail.
  • Water Damage
If your external walls show signs of moisture they can cause severe damage. Moisture and mould can grow quickly inside damp walls. A moist environment is perfect for bacteria growth.
When the wall gets damaged by water it creates tiny holes and cracks. If you notice small white dots on your walls they are probably just droplets of water from condensation.
  • Improper Installation Of Doors And Windows
Many times people install doors and windows without checking the placement of the door frame or window sill. It may seem like a minor issue but when installed incorrectly it can cause serious damage in the future. Over time if the opening becomes too tall or too low than the threshold it may lead to cracks at the corners.
  • Poor Drainage System
Drainage systems play a crucial role in keeping your house dry. Poor design or maintenance of your drain system can cause flooding and eventually damage to your walls. An overflowing toilet or leaky pipe can cause major damage to your walls.
  • Insulation
When your walls have an excessive amount of insulation they become very hot or cold which can make them crack. Insulation must be carefully placed so that it does not affect the ventilation of your room. Too much insulation makes the air inside your house stale and warm so it is better to keep the level of insulation around 40% to 50%.
  • Earthquake
An earthquake can damage the foundation of your house. If your house is built on weak material then even a slight movement could result in cracks. Even after the quake, the cracks may remain open until the damage is fixed.

Possible Solutions For Wall Cracks

There is no single solution to fix all kinds of cracks. However, there are some things you can try to prevent further damage and save money. These remedies include; caulking cracks, drywall patching cracks or fixing existing cracks through plastering. Let us discuss each one of them individually.
  • Caulk Cracks
The simplest way to seal up cracks is to apply caulk over the cracks. Caulks come in two varieties – acrylic and silicone.
Most caulks are made specifically for this purpose. Use only those caulk suitable for the job. Silicone caulks work best with wood surfaces, while acrylic ones do well with stucco.
  • Patch Cracks
Another simple solution is patching. Patching involves putting strips of plywood over the cracked portion of the walls. After the glue dries you can remove the plywood and replace it with new pieces.
Do not use any kind of adhesive tape with this method. Instead, use double-sided Scotch tape. It has enough strength to hold the plywood in place and allows easy removal later on. Remember that patches are best used where the cracks are relatively small.
  • Plaster Walls
If your wall is damaged enough to require replacement, then plaster should be applied to fill the cracks. This method is mostly preferred by professionals. Plaster is water soluble and once dried, it is easily removed.
It also adds value to your home. You will need to purchase ready mix concrete or mortar to obtain a smooth surface.
  • Fix Cracks Through Sticking
You can also fix cracks in the walls using sticking. Here’s how it works: Take old wallpaper sheets and cut out the pieces that cover the areas affected by the crack.
Then, stick them back on the wall. You should apply several layers to give the surface a better look. This technique requires little effort but its long-term benefits are low.
  • Crack Repair
In case the crack is very deep, you might have to consider hiring professional help. Professional services usually cost an arm and a leg.

But if you want to save money, you can contact your local handyman who specializes in repair walls. They can install waterproof materials like epoxy paint, which provides a long-lasting finish.

Wall crack repairs cost may vary depending upon whether you choose to stay with traditional methods or opt for modern techniques. Traditional techniques involve expensive products such as cement and plaster.

On the other hand, modern techniques include the application of epoxy paints. These are affordable and can be painted over at any time.