Have you ever made a sparkle mark on your wall? Especially the vertical cracks in drywall that go up and down? These speeches can be dramatic and may make you wonder. What causes them? Don’t worry about it! Vertical cracks in drywall are normal.
And there are many reasons why this can happen. Understanding the cause of these drywall cracks can help you figure out how to fix them. In this post, we’ll discuss the 12 best reasons to add vertical cracks in drywall. In the end, you’ll Tell us how you discovered them. And what should I do next?
What Are Vertical Cracks in Drywall?
Vertical cracks in drywall are cracks that go up and down your wall. They can appear anywhere in your home. But there is usually a point where the drywall meets or in the corner of the room. This pressure makes cracks, especially vertical cracks in drywall. It is important to say why there are scars. So you can repair and make the sides look good again!
1. House Settling (Your House Moving)
Sometimes, houses move a little bit over time. This is called “settling.” When a house settles, it can cause pressure on the walls. This pressure makes cracks, especially vertical ones. It’s like when you sit down on a chair and it creaks a little. The house does the same thing!
How to Spot Settling:
- The cracks show up in the corners or seams of the wall.
- The cracks may get bigger over time.
Tip: If you notice this happening no need to worry! This is normal at home. But if the spark gets bigger You may be able to fix it.
2. Moisture and Water (Too Much Water)
Moisture or water can make drywall weak. This can happen if water leaks into the walls or your home is too humid. Moisture causes gypsum boards to swell and shrink. This may cause water to splash.
How to Spot Moisture Damage:
- You see water stains on the wall.
- The area around the cracks feels wet.
Tip: Be careful not to fall off the wall. If you are in an area with high humidity Consider using a dehumidifier to remove or remove the moisture.
3. Hot and Cold Weather (Temperature Changes)
If you live in a place where the weather changes, such as winters and warm summers. This can cause drywall cracks. The hot and cold air makes drywall expand and shrink. This movement can cause cracks, especially in the winter when it’s very cold.
How to Spot Temperature Issues:
- Cracks show up when the weather changes.
- The cracks might be bigger in the winter.
Tip: To prevent temperature changes from splashing the leaves Make sure your home is well insulated. This will keep the temperature inside more even.
4. Bad Drywall Installation (Wrong Installation)
If the gypsum wall is not installed correctly when building a house it can splash it can lead to hairline cracks in drywall. This may be because the cement wall was placed incorrectly or was not decorated well enough. Over time, this can cause the drywall sheets to separate and repair cracks in drywall.
How to Spot Installation Issues:
- The cracks are at the seams or edges where the drywall sheets meet.
- The cracks don’t look even.
Tips: If you think the gypsum wall has not been installed properly. It may be time to call in a professional for inspection and repair.
5. Heavy Things on the Walls (Too Much Weight)
Hanging heavy objects such as large pictures, games, or shelves on the wall can cause chatter. If the wall is supporting too much weight, it may bend, causing hairline cracks in walls. The drywall might not be strong enough to hold everything up.
How to Spot Weight Problems:
- The cracks are near where you hang heavy things.
- The cracks follow the line of where the item is mounted.
Tip: When you hang heavy things, make sure to use the right hooks and nails that can hold the weight.
6. Vibration (Shaking Walls)
In some places, there are big trucks or cars that drive by a lot. The shaking from these big vehicles can cause the walls in your home to crack. This happens especially if the walls are not strong enough to handle the vibrations.
How to Spot Vibration Damage:
- The cracks appear near doors or windows.
- You notice cracks after a lot of big trucks go by.
Tip: If you live near busy streets, make sure the walls are extra strong to handle the vibrations. You can ask a professional to help with that. This can lead to hairline cracks in plaster.
7. Pest Problems (Animals in the Walls)
Sometimes, little animals like mice or termites can cause damage to your drywall. These pests can chew on the drywall or tunnel through it, making cracks appear especially in cracks in plaster.
How to Spot Pest Problems:
- You see holes or damage in the drywall.
- You might notice small animal droppings or see pests in your house.
Tip: Please keep your house clean and watch out for pests. If you find anything You can ask a pest expert to help you find them.
8. Construction Changes (House Renovations)
If your house was changed or renovated, it could cause cracks in the walls. Sometimes, when walls are moved or removed, it puts more pressure on the other walls. This pressure can cause cracks to appear.
How to Spot Renovation Issues:
- The cracks show up after you make big changes to the house.
- The cracks are near areas where walls were moved.
Tip: Always use caution when making changes to your home. If you are planning to rebuild You should talk to an expert.
9. Drywall Shrinking (Drywall Getting Smaller)
Sometimes drywall shrinks after being put up. When the gypsum board is too thick They may become smaller and springs may bounce. This is especially true if the drywall is exposed to excessive heat or air conditioning for too long.
How to Spot Shrinking Drywall:
- Cracks show up after the weather gets hot.
- You may see the cracks in areas near air conditioning vents or heaters.
Tip: Try to keep the temperature in your home steady and avoid placing hot air on the drywall.
10. Too Much Drying (Walls Drying Out)
If the air in the house is too dry It may cause the gypsum board to break. When the air is too dry, the gypsum may shrink, resulting in hairline cracks in drywall.
How to Spot Drying Issues:
- Cracks show up after the air in your house gets dry.
- Sparks are larger in winter when the air is dry.
Tip: Use an annual blower to add moisture to the air in dry climates.
11. Shifting Foundation (House Moving)
The foundation of your home is the base on which everything rests. If the foundation moves slightly Edges may bounce. This usually happens if the soil has shifted, which causes vertical cracks in drywall.
How to Spot Foundation Problems:
- The cracks are near corners, windows, or doors.
- Doors and windows might be harder to open and close.
Tip: If you think your house is shifting, it’s best to call a professional to inspect the foundation.
12. Too Much Pressure (Walls Being Pushed)
If something is pushing against the walls, like a heavy item or a big shift in the house, it can cause cracks. This happens when the walls are under too much pressure from outside forces.
How to Spot Pressure Problems:
- The cracks are in areas where heavy things are near.
- The cracks appear when the house shifts or settles.
Tip: Be careful not to put pressure on the wall by carrying heavy objects around.
Conclusion
Vertical cracks in drywall can form from multiple roots. From the natural subsidence of the house to weather changes and heavy weight on the walls. While some speakers are a natural part of the house, others may require a little attention. It is important to identify the cause early. So you can fix it before the problem gets worse.
If you are unsure about how to deal with sparks on gypsum board or help with repairs. Matsu Painters is here to help you. Our highly experienced team can help you assess your situation and restore it to its original form. No, contact us today for expert drywall service and repair.
Contact us today for professional drywall services and repairs!
FAQs
How Do You Fix Vertical Cracks?
To fix vertical cracks in drywall, follow these simple steps:
- Clean the sprinkler: Remove any plasterboard or rust from the sprinkler.
- Before baking: Use a sparkler to spray the baking spray.
- Legg Gypsum Tape: Place gypsum tape over splash water for added strength.
- Smoothing: To remove more moisture from the tape. Smooth it out with sparkles.
- Sand and Paint: Once the mixture is dry Loosen it and paint it nicely to match the wall.
How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Drywall?
Here’s how you can repair cracks and holes:
- Small Cracks: Fill them with joint compound using a putty knife, smooth it out, and sand it once dry.
- Small Holes: Fill them with spackle or joint compound, let it dry, and sand smooth before painting.
- Large Holes: Use a drywall patch or cut a new piece of drywall to fit the hole. Secure it with drywall screws, tape the edges, and cover with joint compound. Sand and paint for a clean finish.
How to Repair Drywall Cracks?
To repair drywall cracks:
- Clean the Area: Remove any loose material from the crack.
- Fill the Crack: Apply joint compound with a putty knife.
- Reinforce with Tape: Use drywall tape over larger cracks for extra durability.
- Smooth and Dry: Apply another layer of joint compound, smooth it out, and let it dry.
- Sand and Paint: Sand the area smooth and repaint to match the wall.
How to Fix Ceiling Water Damage?
Water damage on the ceiling needs careful attention:
- Find the Leak: Fix the source of the water before repairing the ceiling.
- Dry the Area: Ensure the damaged area is completely dry to prevent mold.
- Cut Out Damaged Drywall: Remove any sagging or damaged drywall.
- Replace with New Drywall: Cut and install a new piece of drywall in the damaged spot.
- Finish the Repair: Apply joint compound, sand it smooth, and repaint the area.
How to Fix Hairline Cracks in Drywall?
Hairline cracks in drywall are easy to fix:
- Clean the Crack: Remove any dust or debris from the crack.
- Fill with Compound: Apply a thin layer of joint compound using a putty knife.
- Sand the Area: Once the compound dries, lightly sand it to make it smooth.
Paint to Match: Touch up the area with paint for a seamless look.