Cracks in the ceiling are a common occurrence, and often their impact is more cosmetic than structural.
Learn how to differentiate minorceilingcracks from more serious cracks that need immediate attention.
Ceilings have a top side, as well.
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Up in the attic, the ceiling is usually unprotected.
The tape may not have been applied well before it was covered up with additionaljoint compound.
Water damage may manifest itself as yellow or brown stains or as bubbled paint.
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Structural Damage
While foundation settling is to be expected, structural damage isn’t.
Working upward, damage can affect windows and doorways, walls, and then eventually the ceiling.
The issue, then, goes far beyond the crack.
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It’s a foundation problem, with the ceiling crack being only a minor byproduct.
Attic insulation calledvermiculitemay contain asbestos.
If you see small grayish silver or brown pebbles, call an asbestos mitigation company for testing and removal.
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Remove old mesh or paper tape, too.
Work lengthwise with the crack, not sideways.
Spread Joint Compound
With the drywall knife, spread the joint compound on the crack.
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Spread about 3 inches wide.
Apply Tape
Apply the paper tape to the wet joint compound.
Center the ceiling crack with the tape, as much as possible.
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Press the tape with the drywall knife.
Apply Joint Compound
Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the tape.
Feather out the edges to cover up the edges of the tape.
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Touch up Joint Compound
After the joint compound has dried, sand off any high spots.
Touch up any missing areas of the joint compound.
This may require a full second coat.
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Allow to dry and sand to smooth.
Attic access doors are usually found in bedroom closets, hallways, or garages.
With the flashlight, find the area of the crack.
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Clear loose-fill or fiberglass batt insulation.
Measure Joists
Before leaving the attic, measure the distance between the joists.
On most homes with joists spaced 16 inches on-center, the distance should be 14 1/2 inches.
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Add extra plywood if necessary.
Cut a piece to fit the ceiling cutout.
Temporarily place a heavy item on the board before you go downstairs.
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The heavy item will hold the plywood in place while you drill from below.
Attach Replacement Section
From below, screw the drywall replacement section onto the plywood withdrywall screws.
Install additional screws through existing drywall and into the extra plywood backer at each end.
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Finish and Paint
Finish the edges of the repaired section with drywall tape.
Apply joint compound to cover the edges.
Roll primer over the patch, then paint to match the ceiling paint.
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The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
