Drywall cracks fall into three buckets: cosmetic, structural, and water. Most of what we see is cosmetic. But you should know how to tell them apart.
1. Hairline cracks at corners of windows and doors
Cosmetic. Houses settle. These are normal and a 20-minute fix with mesh tape, mud, and a sand pass.
2. Diagonal cracks running from ceiling to floor
Possible foundation movement. Get a foundation specialist to look before you patch — patching only hides the symptom.
3. Brown or yellow stains on ceiling drywall
Water. Find the source first. Could be a roof leak, plumbing leak, or condensation from an HVAC line.
4. Drywall that sounds hollow or feels spongy when pressed
Water damage or framing failure behind. Open it up.
5. Nail pops and small dimples
Cosmetic. New screw next to it, patch over both, sand and paint.
If you see cracks in #2 or stains in #3, don't patch yet. Call us or any contractor for a free look.
Have a question about this article? Email Mohamad directly at mabb@amzpubprocess.com.