Have you ever noticed cracks forming in your walls and wondered if they’re just a cosmetic annoyance or something more serious? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Internal wall cracks are something almost every homeowner faces at some point. The trick is knowing how to tell the difference between a harmless crack and one that might require a little more attention. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to identify and repair internal wall cracks like a seasoned pro.
Why Do Internal Wall Cracks Happen?
First, let’s talk about why you’re seeing these cracks in the first place. Internal wall cracks can pop up for several reasons, and not all are cause for concern.
Your House is Settling
Every house settles over time. This is a normal process as your home adjusts to its environment. It can cause small cracks, especially around windows, doors, or corners. Think of these as your home getting comfortable.
Temperature Changes
If you live somewhere with drastic seasonal changes, fluctuations in temperature and humidity can make building materials expand and contract. This can lead to cracks in your walls, particularly in areas exposed to moisture or heat.
Foundation Issues
Okay, now we’re getting into more serious territory. If the soil under your home shifts due to poor drainage or other reasons, it can put stress on your foundation, which leads to—you guessed it—cracks. These kinds of cracks are usually more prominent and more noticeable.
Structural Movement
Sometimes, external factors like nearby construction, earthquakes, or even heavy traffic can cause a house to shift slightly. This movement might lead to cracks forming in your internal walls. If this happens, it’s essential to monitor the cracks closely.
What Kind of Internal Wall Cracks Are You Dealing With?
Not all cracks are the same, and they can tell you different things about what’s happening with your home. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types of internal wall cracks and what they might mean.
Hairline Cracks
These are super thin, almost like someone drew on your wall with a fine pencil. Minor settling or changes in temperature usually cause hairline cracks, but they’re mostly cosmetic, so there’s no need to panic.
Diagonal Cracks
If you see diagonal cracks that start wider at one end and get narrower, this could be a sign of uneven settling. It might also indicate some foundation problems, so it’s worth watching these.
Horizontal Cracks
If you notice horizontal cracks, especially those running along load-bearing walls, it’s time to take action. These cracks can indicate significant structural issues like a shifting foundation. This is one of those times when calling a pro might be your best bet.
Stair-Step Cracks
Stair-step cracks often show up in brick or block walls and tend to follow the mortar lines. They’re usually a sign of foundation settlement and could require professional attention, especially if they’re large or growing.
Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks are pretty common and, in most cases, aren’t a huge deal. The natural settling of the house usually causes them. If they’re small, you can likely fix them yourself. But if they’re big, getting them checked out is best.
How Serious Is the Crack?
Before you rush into repair mode, take a minute to assess how serious the crack is. Here are some things to consider:
How Wide Is It?
Cracks that are more minor than 1/8 inch are generally not a big deal and can be easily fixed. But if you notice cracks wider than 1/4 inch, especially if they keep getting bigger, it could be a sign of foundation trouble.
Is It Getting Worse?
Cracks that widen or spread over time are worth monitoring. You can mark the edges with a pencil and check back after a few months to see if there’s been any movement.
Where Is It?
Cracks near windows or doors are standard. But if you’re noticing cracks in the middle of walls or along load-bearing walls, you may want to dig a little deeper and consider calling in a professional.
DIY Crack Repairs: How to Do It Like a Pro
Ready to roll up your sleeves and tackle those cracks? Let’s get into how to repair internal wall cracks with confidence. Whether it’s a tiny hairline crack or something more substantial, here’s how to do it right.
Fixing Hairline Cracks
Hairline cracks are the easiest to fix and can usually be handled with minimal tools.
- What you need: Joint compound, a putty knife, fine sandpaper, and paint.
- Steps:
- Clean the crack with a soft brush to remove any dust or debris.
- Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the crack with a putty knife.
- Allow it to dry completely, then sand it smooth.
- Paint over the area to blend it with the rest of the wall.
Repairing Diagonal or Vertical Cracks
Cracks that are a little wider may need some reinforcement to prevent them from reopening.
- What you need: Joint compound, mesh tape, a putty knife, sandpaper, and paint.
- Steps:
- Clean the crack and apply mesh tape along its length for extra support.
- Spread the joint compound over the tape and smooth it out.
- After it dries, sand it down and add a second layer if needed.
- Finish by sanding and painting to match the wall.
Handling Horizontal Cracks
You might deal with a more significant issue if you’ve got horizontal cracks. Before you do anything, having a professional inspect your foundation is wise. But if you’re ready for the repair:
- You need an epoxy injection kit or patching compound, mesh tape, joint compound, sandpaper, and paint.
- Steps:
- Inject epoxy or patching compound into the crack to stabilize it.
- Apply mesh tape over the crack for reinforcement.
- Cover it with joint compound, then sand and paint once dry.
When to Call in the Pros
If the cracks are deep and wide or come back after you’ve repaired them, it might be time to call a professional. Structural issues like foundation problems require more than a quick DIY fix and can become expensive if left untreated.
Preventing Future Cracks
Now that your walls are looking fresh and crack-free, how do you prevent future cracks from happening? Here are a few tips to keep your walls in good shape:
Control Moisture Levels
Too much moisture can cause your walls to expand and contract, leading to cracks. To keep things balanced, use a dehumidifier in particularly humid areas of your home.
Maintain Proper Drainage
Ensure your gutters and downspouts are in good working condition. They direct water away from your foundation. Poor drainage can cause the soil around your home to shift, leading to cracks.
Inspect Regularly
Regularly inspect your walls for new cracks or signs of damage. Catching a small crack early can prevent more significant headaches (and costs).
Keep Your Walls in Top Shape
Cracks in your walls don’t have to cause panic but shouldn’t be ignored. You can identify and repair internal wall cracks like a pro with some know-how. Whether it’s a small hairline crack or something more significant, the key is to assess the severity, take action, and keep an eye on the situation moving forward. So grab your tools, get to work, and give those cracks the boot!