As a homeowner it can be daunting to see the sight of cracks in your plaster ceiling, but rest assured this is normal with house movement. Typically, movement is a result of the house settling or fluctuations in temperature and moisture. Why would there be movement in your home resulting in the need for plaster ceiling repair? In some instances, movement requires the repair of foundations such as restumping homes built on stumps or underpinning foundations that have sunk into the ground over time. However, in some instances, cracks are a result of water damage and even poor workmanship. Cracks are common in asphalt driveway as well that can be filled using hot asphalt crack filler.
Regular maintenance and inspection from Southern Ceiling Repairs is key to mitigating any exasperation of ceiling cracks. The team provides a customised approach to each situation ensuring the utmost professional advice, guidance, and quality in workmanship so you can have peace of mind.
If like many homeowners you’re keen to repair your own ceiling cracks, Southern Ceiling Repairs have taken the guesswork out. Simply follow the guided tutorial steps on plaster ceiling repair and say goodbye to those unsightly ceiling cracks. You’ll learn to fix plaster cracks and the best way to reinforce plaster.
Understanding Where Ceiling Cracks Appear
A telling sign of house movement are small plaster cracks where two plaster sheets join or along the side of the cornice where it is attached to the plaster sheet. Other cracks which extend on an outwards angle from doors and windows are generally caused from considerable foundation movement.
Don’t attempt any ceiling crack repair work unless it’s small. Large cracks could be the cause of a more serious underlying issue requiring expert attention. Southern Ceiling Repairs will provide you with the best expert advice and care in all things plaster ceiling repair.
Repairing Hairline Cracks In Plaster Ceiling
Some will rush at the thought of replastering a complete room when hairline cracks appear, but this isn’t necessary. With this guidance, you can see just how easy it is to make simple repairs.
Plaster Repair Tools
- Ladder
- Putty knife to scrape
- Trimming knife
- Safety glasses and a dust mask
- Paint scraper with a wide blade to apply plaster compound
Plaster Repair Materials
- Plaster joining tape
- Plaster compound
- Rag or cloth
- Sanding block with sandpaper
Step 1: Preparing the cracked surface
The first step to repairing hairline cracks in plaster ceiling is to create more of a surface for the plaster compound to bond with. Simply scrape the crack with your putty knife to open it up.
Step 2: Sand the surface
From here you will need to sand the surface. Again, this will ensure a better bond by ending any paintwork.
Step 3: Dust and apply joining tape
Dust the surface thoroughly and apply joining tape to cover the crack. By dusting this will ensure the joining tape has good adhesion to the area.
Step 4: Apply plaster compound
Once the joining tape has been applied you can now use your paint scraper to apply the plaster compound. Be sure to flatten it onto the wall with your paint scraper.
Step 5: Dust, sand, and repeat
Once the plaster compound has completely dried you can sand the area until it’s smooth and dust away on completion. Now you will apply the plaster compound, extending the application a little wider than initially applied.
Once dry again simply sand the area and dust off the area before painting.
The Early Signs Of Ceiling Cracks
It’s important homeowners are vigilant in taking the right steps to observe any changes in their house, and take the steps to engage a ceiling crack repair service to avoid significant and costly damage. Some of these signs you should look out for are outlined below.
- Noticeable cracking noises
- Falling or sagging ceiling plasterboard
- The appearance of small hairline cracks or blisters.
- Discolouration of plasterboard
If you notice any of these signs reaching out to experts in plaster ceiling repair, Southern Ceiling Repairs.
Protect Your Home
Whilst the above has provided the best steps in repairing hairline cracks in plaster ceiling, keep an eye out for those early signs. Once the root cause has been determined the task of rectification can begin. Always consult with plaster ceiling repair experts in the first instance to ensure every bit of success in protecting your home from further damage.