How To Repair Cracks In Drywall Or Plaster

As homes settle, cracks often develop. One of the most common places for cracks to form is at the corners of windows and doors. While painting over a small crack may temporarily hide it, rest assured, it will return. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to make a more permanent repair that looks great.

Due to the fact that the joint compound must dry between coats, expect this job to take a couple of days. Materials needed include joint compound, a six-inch taping blade, a 12-inch taping blade and tape. Paper tape is stronger than fiberglass for this type of repair and will result in a longer lasting repair. If cracks are more than one quarter inch in depth, quick-setting crack filler may be required.

Cover any woodwork using masking tape to protect it during the repairs. Use a utility knife with a new blade to cut a notch in the shape of a V the entire length of the crack. The notch should be about 1/4 inch. Be sure to remove any loose materials from the notch.

Fill the notch with joint compound, allowing the material to overflow the crack a couple of inches on either side. Moisten the paper tape with water and lay it over the crack. Use the 6 inch taping blade to squeeze excess compound and air from under the paper. Apply a thin layer of compound and feather off approximately two inches on either side of the tape. Allow to dry.

Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat of joint compound, that extends six to seven inches on either side of the joint. Use the 12-inch taping blade to smooth the compound. It should be smooth, and even. Long continuous strokes with the blade are the best way to accomplish this. Once dry, sand lightly to provide a smooth surface without exposing the tape. If necessary, add a third coat.

Use primer to cover the repaired joint. New joint compound can soak up a lot of paint unless it is primed. Top with a final coat that matches the rest of the wall. If you are not painting the entire room, blend the edges of the repair so that it is less noticeable.

Drop ceiling panels can be used to repair overhead cracks. They are an ideal solution for older homes where many such cracks may have developed in the plaster over the years. They are available in many different patterns and can give the room a very distinctive look.