How to Repair Cracks in Walls : A Complete Guide

If you own a home or have ever rented a property, you probably know that cracks in walls are almost inevitable. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as settling of the foundation, temperature changes, or even just normal wear and tear. While small cracks may not seem like a big deal, they can quickly escalate into larger, more expensive problems if left unattended. Fortunately, repairing cracks in walls is a relatively simple task that can be tackled by homeowners with a little bit of knowledge and elbow grease. In this blog, we'll go over some of the basics of wall crack repair and give you the tools you need to get started. So roll up your sleeves, grab your spackle, and let's get cracking!

• 1. Repairing a crack in Drywall

  • Drywall is a specific type of wall panel made of gypsum plaster and sandwiched between two sheets of paper, which is a commonly used material for interior walls in many homes and buildings. So when discussing how to fix cracks in walls, this comes as no surprise to many because homeowners will encounter cracks in their drywall at some point. Luckily, fixing a small crack in drywall is a fairly easy process.
    
    
  • Following are the steps to repairing a crack in drywall :
  1. Buy a joint compound that can either be premixed or ‘setting-type’
  2. Cut a V-notch along the cracks you want to fix
  3. Clean the area around the crack to remove debris or dust
  4. Apply a thin layer of joint compound to the crack and spread it evenly
  5. Keep applying as many coats as you feel necessary
  6. Allow it at least 24 hours to dry out
  7. Once dry, use sandpaper to smooth or dry out any rough spots or excess compound
  8. Finish by painting over the area to match the surrounding wall

• 2. Repairing a crack in concrete wall

  • Concrete walls are often found in basements, garages, and other areas of a home, and cracks in these walls can be caused by a variety of factors, including settling of the foundation, temperature changes, or water damage. Fortunately, repairing a crack in a concrete wall and concrete curing is also a relatively simple process.
    
    
  • Here are a few steps that can be followed to repair a crack in concrete wall :
  1. Widen the crack slightly with a chisel or hammer
  2. Clean the area around the crack with a wire brush to remove any loose debris
  3. Use a bonding adhesive to prime the cracked area with an old paintbrush
  4. Apply multiple coats of the concrete patching with a putty knife by pressing them into the crack and making it level with the rest of the wall
  5. Finish by ensuring the repair matches with the rest of the wall

• 3. Repairing a crack in Plaster Wall

  • Plaster walls are often found in older homes and buildings, and cracks in these walls can be caused by a variety of factors, including settling of the foundation, temperature changes, or simply the natural aging of the plaster. Repairing a crack in a plaster wall requires a slightly different approach than drywall or concrete, but it's still a manageable DIY project.
    
    
  • Here are a few steps to follow when repairing a plaster wall :
  1. Start by pressing gently over the wall to see if the plaster moves or comes apart
  2.  Clean the area and widen the crack using a putty knife
  3. Spread ready mixed or setting type joint compound over the crack and fill it completely
  4. Considering the size of the crack if large, a self-adhesive fibreglass mesh tape must be applied before plaster
  5. Apply a few layers of compound (maybe 2 or 3) over the taped area
  6. Finally paint over the patched area to match the rest of the wall

Also Read : How to Calculate Water Cement Ratio ?