Repair Recurring Cracks in Walls and Ceilings

Use this process to repair recurring cracks in plaster and drywall. Unlike the repair process using spray foam insulation, this technique makes use of latex caulk to stabilize movement in gypsum board and plaster. When the caulk has set, it will help to stabilze the movement causing the crack, as well as flexing with the wall material, to minimize future cracking. The crack can then be repaired using the same repair process used for any wall or ceiling crack.

Clear all loose debris from the crack and brush or vacuum out the dust. Scrape all around the crack to remove any loose wall material or peeling paint.

Before proceeding with the crack repair process, drive screws on each side along the crack and into any available framing. This will help to minimize movement and may cure the recurring cracking problem altogether.

Next, use a spray bottle of water to soak the plaster and gypsum along the crack until it won't absorb anymore water. This will help to ensure a lasting bond between the wall material and caulk filler.

Fill the crack with plenty of caulk and smooth it into the surrounding wall material with your finger and a wet rag. Wipe any excess caulk off the finished wall surface around the crack. Let the caulk dry and set for an hour or more before proceeding.

Mix setting–type joint compound and apply a skim coat over the caulk using these crack repair and skim coating techniques. Let the mud set for about 30 minutes when using Durabond45® and longer for slow acting compounds. Apply a second and third coat as needed. Finish the repair by sanding, priming and touching up the paint.