It’s only fair that you wish to keep your home in good condition. It is probably the biggest investment and the largest purchase you have ever made. So even the small cracks do not go unnoticed. But when such cracks start appearing on ceilings and walls, you begin to worry and what causes them.
Ceiling cracks are not necessarily a sign of structural damage. Although they can signify structural damage at times, in most cases, they are not that serious, depending on the location and size of the crack.
This article provides necessary information on what causes ceiling cracks, types of ceiling cracks, and when you should get worried.
What causes ceiling cracks?
The major causes of ceiling cracks are structural damage and natural settling, resulting from an aging building. Other reasons why your ceiling has cracks include:
● Normal wear and tear: When your home is getting older, foundation settling happens naturally and can cause cracks not just on ceilings but also on other parts of the building.
● Moisture damage: Ceiling cracks can also be a result of moisture damage. The water damage can be originating from the roofing or the immediate floor above the ceiling. There can be possible leaks due to plumbing problems.
● A heavy floor above the ceiling: If there are some heavy objects on the immediate floor above the ceiling, you may see some cracks forming on your ceiling.
● Poor workmanship on your drywall: When the drywall is poorly installed, it will often crack. Cracks on drywall ceilings are not that serious as those on plaster ceilings.
● Foundation issues: Now to what you feared most. Sometimes, cracks happen due to structural and foundation issues. The foundation problems put stress on the ceiling, causing them to crack.
Types of ceiling cracks
Understanding different types of cracks will tell you when you should get worried about cracks on the ceiling.
Spiderweb cracks
Thin spider web cracks on ceilings should not get you worried. They are normal cracks caused by slight natural building movement. Sometimes, they are also caused by cracks of ceiling paint and resemble those you find on floors and walls.
Cracks running from ceiling down the walls
Such cracks are indeed caused by structural damage. You should contact a foundation professional as soon as possible.
Ceiling cracks with sagging
These cracks must be checked immediately by professionals.
Cracks between ceiling and walls
If you see a gap between walls and ceilings, this is mostly caused by foundation settling. It should also be checked by a professional.
Do you see cracks on your drywall ceiling?
If you are noticing some cracks on your drywall ceiling, it could be the result of poor workmanship. The drywalls were not installed correctly.
Compared to plaster ceilings, cracks on drywall ceilings should not be the cause of alarm. You can easily repair the problem by correctly installing the drywall.
Call Golden State Drywall Repair Pros at (510) 250-5447 today for all your drywall ceiling repairs in Oakland.
