Ceiling cracks may seem harmless, but they can indicate a serious issue or detract from your home’s appearance. If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or just trying to improve the appearance of a room, knowing how to repair a crack in a plaster ceiling will save you time, money, and frustration. We will describe how to repair plaster ceiling cracks thoroughly, using simple tools and techniques. In addition, we will help you avoid common mistakes that cause the cracks to come back!
So if you are sick of staring at those pesky lines any longer, let’s get started! By the end of this guide, you will know how to repair a crack in a plaster ceiling without needing to call for professional help for a simple cosmetic repair.
Why Do Cracks Appear in Plaster Ceilings?
Before we get to the fix, it is useful to understand the causes of cracking in the first place. This knowledge will help you avoid future cracking.
Some of the most frequent causes of cracks on plaster ceiling may include:
- The natural settling of a house, typical of older dwellings.
- Fluctuations in temperature and humidity are causing materials to expand and contract.
- Water damage from leaks from roofs or plumbing systems.
- The poor installation of materials or older materials losing their strength over time.
These cracks are not always unsafe, but they can grow wider or allow moisture in if they are not given attention, leading to mould and potential structural damage.
Step-by-Step: How to Repair a Crack in Plaster Ceiling
Let’s go through a simple, effective way to revert your ceiling to a smooth, clean finish.
Step 1: Prepare the area
Spread dust sheets, or old rags, to catch any falling debris and plaster dust. You don’t want your furniture or carpet covered in white dust. It is also advised to wear safety goggles and a mask.
Use a utility knife to gently enlarge the crack. Although it may seem odd, slightly enlarging the crack will give the filler more surface area to bond effectively. This step is important for fixing a crack in ceiling properly.
Step 2: Clean and Sand the Crack
Use a dry paintbrush or a vacuum to remove any loose dust and debris around the crack. This step is critical. If any dust remains, the filler will not adhere well.
Then use some light sandpaper to sand the area around the crack. This approach makes the area much smoother and helps both filler and paint stick well. Whether you want to repair crack in ceiling simply for aesthetics or a long-term fix, do not skip this step.
Step 3: Apply Joint or Scrim Tape
Doing this helps reinforce the repair, particularly if the crack is wider or deeper. Position scrim tape or joint tape directly over the repaired crack. It “bridges” the gap and helps to prevent the filler from cracking again.
Using tape is particularly helpful when figuring out how to repair cracks in ceiling plasterboards, where movement is more likely.
Step 4: Apply Plaster Filler or Joint Compound
Use a putty knife to apply a layer of plaster filler into the taped area. Apply it evenly and feather it out to blend with the ceiling. If the crack is severe, you may need to apply two layers.
When learning how to fill cracks in ceiling, be patient, and allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
Step 5: Let It Dry and Sand Again
Wait until the filler has dried entirely, which, depending on the filler, may take a few hours and overnight. Once dry, sand the area until it is smooth and flush with the existing ceiling.
This is personally one of the most satisfying parts of how to repair a crack in a plaster ceiling, because you can actually start to see the final product.
Step 6: Prime and Paint
Apply one coat of primer to the patched area to seal it and aid the adhesion of the paint. Once it is dry, paint it with a matching ceiling paint. You may need to do two coats to blend it together nicely.
Congratulations, and now you know how to repair a crack in ceiling properly.
Tips to Prevent Future Cracks
Fixing cracks is a good thing, but preventing cracks is better. Here are some useful tips for avoiding ceiling damage in the future:
- Control moisture: Solve leaks immediately and maintain better ventilation.
- Use quality products: Cheap fillers and paint crack easily.
- Reinforce trouble areas: Add scrim tape, even on small cracks, to help prevent issues in the future.
If you ever see indications of significant ceiling movement or recurring cracks, you should contact a structural expert.
Fixing Minor and Major Cracks
If the crack is really thin and on the surface, you might not need tape. If you have had damage from water leaking or larger gaps, don’t forget the tape. That is what makes how to fix crack in the ceiling different from just filling holes in the ceiling.
If the damage is extensive or sagging, you can have a professional look at it. Doing a structural fix on your own without experience can be dangerous and cause bigger problems in the future.
When Should You Get Help?
Although learning how to repair a crack in a plaster ceiling, is helpful, it is not typically a one-person job. Contact a professional if you see:
- Damaged plaster
- Reoccurring cracks
- Moisture or mold around the crack
- Crumbling plaster falling off
All these are indications of underlying problems. Sometimes, DIY is not sufficient. You can take professional help from TheTradeCore, a reliable platform that provides experts tradespersons to homeowners needing the help.
Conclusion:
Now you have a full understanding of how to repair a crack in plaster ceiling, and you have the tools and methods to deal with it like a pro. By taking the time to prepare the surface, applying the right materials, and finishing it, you can restore your ceiling and keep your house looking neat and fresh.
Not only will you have a smoother ceiling, but you will also feel excellent after fixing it by yourself. And who knows, you might just inspire someone else to learn how to repair a crack in a plaster ceiling, too.