Cracks in plaster walls can occur due to a number of different factors. One of the most common causes is settlement or movement of the foundation of the house. When a house settles or moves, it causes the interior walls to shift and can lead to cracking.
Additionally, changes in the climate can cause these cracks. Extreme temperatures can cause the materials used in the plaster to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking. Poor construction techniques can also cause plaster walls to crack.
If the house experienced foundation work that was not properly completed, the walls can shift, leading to cracking. Poor workmanship and inadequate preparation can also cause the plaster to crack. Inadequate preparation can include not using enough materials or using the wrong type of materials for the job.
If the plaster surface was not reinforced properly, it can cause the appearance of cracking. Furthermore, cracks can be caused by excessively heavy items being hung on the walls; walls that are not strong enough to support such objects will wear away, leading to cracking.
Finally, age can also be to blame, as plasters in older homes often succumb to more cracking due to the wear and tear of daily life.
Why is my plaster cracking as it dries?
When plaster is drying, it can sometimes crack due to a number of different reasons. One of the most common is simply due to shrinkage as the plaster dries. As the plaster’s surface water evaporates, it causes the plaster to become smaller, which can cause the surface of the plaster to crack.
Additionally, if the plaster has been applied too thickly, it will cracked as it dries due to the sheer amount of drying that needs to take place. Lastly, if the plaster is dried too quickly, it could cause it to crack due to uneven shrinkage.
To prevent cracks, always ensure that the plaster is the right thickness and that it is drying slowly and evenly.
Does it matter if plaster cracks?
Yes, it does matter if plaster cracks. Plaster is a wall covering material used to finish a room and give it a smooth surface. Over time, plaster can crack due to normal settling of a home or as a result of changes in temperature and humidity.
While small hairline cracks may not pose a threat and are often virtually invisible, larger cracks can compromise the stability of the material, allowing water to seep in and cause damage to the wall behind it.
Cracking can also be caused by the substrate (such as drywall or lath) shifting. If the substrate shifts, it can cause the plaster to crack or form bulges. In these cases, the plaster must be repaired right away to prevent further issues.
Repairs may involve patching the cracked area, applying a bonding agent, and re-applying a new layer of plaster.
Are cracks in plaster normal?
Cracks in plaster are generally normal and expected. Over time and depending on the type of plaster used, plaster can shrink and cause cracking in the wall. This is especially true when plaster is used to cover an uneven and rigid surface, as the plaster will be more prone to cracking.
However, these cracks are generally considered to be normal and can often be easily fixed with a few simple repairs. If the cracks are wide, deep or recurring, it is advisable to check for underlying structural issues such as shifting foundations or deterioration in the walls, so that the issue can be properly addressed.
Should I worry about cracks in walls?
Cracks in walls are generally nothing to worry about, as they are most likely caused by settlement and shrinkage of building materials. In many cases, they can be fixed by using caulk or plaster to fill them up.
However, if the crack is wide, deep, or growing, it could be an indication of a more serious structural issue and is worth consulting a professional. Additionally, if the cracking is accompanied by other signs such as bulging walls, sticking windows or doors, or a noticeable shift in the building’s structure, it can be a sign of larger problems such as foundation failure and should be addressed by a professional.
How do you fix hairline cracks in new plaster?
To fix hairline cracks in new plaster, it is important to first identify the cause of the cracks. If the plaster has been applied to a previously painted or textured surface, the plaster may have dried too quickly and caused the cracks.
If the cracks appear after cleaning or a drop in temperature, they are most likely due to shrinkage when drying.
If the cracks are due to shrinkage, they can often be repaired without having to renew the plaster. To fix the cracks, you should fill them with a fine filler, such as dedicated plasterer’s filler. This type of filler is designed to be slightly tacky and form a bond with the existing plaster.
If the cracks are due to shrinkage after cleaning, you can try filling the cracks with a damp-proof sealant in order to reduce the additional shrinkage.
Once the filler is dry, it can be sanded down, with care taken not to sand away too much of the plaster. If necessary, the area can then be re-plastered and finished to match the surrounding area.
What causes cracks after plastering?
Cracks after plastering are typically caused by a combination of things. The biggest contributing factor is the improper application of the plaster itself. Plaster needs to be mixed and applied correctly in order to form a strong substrate that will not crack.
Using too much water in the mix can create excessive shrinkage, as the plaster will harden too quickly and crack. Other factors that can cause cracks include inadequate drying time (the plaster usually needs to be allowed to dry for at least 48 hours before applying paint or wallpaper) and poor preparation of the base beneath (uneven surfaces or moisture within the substrate can lead to cracking).
Finally, external conditions such as extreme temperatures and fluctuations in temperature can also cause plaster to crack.
Is a crack in a wall Serious?
Whether or not a crack in a wall is serious depends on a few factors, including the size and location of the crack. Small cracks, especially those found in drywall and plaster, can usually be repaired, while larger cracks or those in masonry walls may be indicative of a more serious issue.
Cracks in a wall can often be caused by normal settlement and age-related wear, but if the cracks are wide, run vertically, and occur suddenly with no apparent cause, then it’s important to have them checked out by a structural engineer or building inspector.
Uneven levels of moisture, water damage, and soil conditions can also contribute to cracking in walls, so it’s important to have any cracks inspected to ensure there’s not an underlying issue. Depending on the extent of the issue, a crack in a wall can range from a minor repair all the way to a major structural issue, so it’s essential to have it checked out and addressed as soon as possible.
How do you know when to replace plaster?
You should replace plaster when it is showing signs of serious damage, such as cracks, bulges, and visible crumbling. Plaster often gets damaged due to water seeping in, extreme weather changes, and general wear-and-tear over time.
If your plaster is discolored or has a lot of flaking or scaling, then it is likely time to replace it. You should also inspect the walls behind the plaster for signs of rotting, mold, or water damage.
If there is any visible damage to both the plaster and the underlying wall, then it is definitely time to replace. It is also important to look for any signs of structural shifts in the walls, such as bowing or leaning, as this could indicate the plaster needs to be replaced.
Finally, if you’ve recently had an issue with termites, then the plaster should be replaced as soon as possible, since termites can cause significant damage to either the plaster or the wall beneath.
Can moisture cause plaster to crack?
Yes, moisture can cause plaster to crack. When moisture is present, it can cause the plaster to expand and contract, leading to cracking. This is especially true if there is a significant difference in temperature between the inside of the building and the outside.
The expansion and contraction of the plaster cause it to weaken and then eventually it cracks. If moisture accumulates behind the plaster, it can also cause a buildup of pressure that can lead to cracking.
To avoid this, try to keep the temperature inside and outside your home consistent and make sure there is adequate ventilation. Additionally, sealing the surfaces and reducing humidity levels can help to prevent moisture getting underneath the plaster and causing it to crack.
How common are cracks in walls?
Cracks in walls are very common and generally aren’t anything to worry about. In most cases, minor and surface cracks are caused by normal wear and tear or seasonal changes and can be easily fixed with a bit of spackling or sanding.
However, if the cracks are wider than a quarter inch, there could be a structural problem. This could include foundation problems, soil settlement, or water damage. An inspection should be completed to determine the cause of the cracks and whether it needs to be addressed.
In general, smaller cracks near window and door frames are the most common and, while they may indicate a problem, they often don’t require repairs. Other common areas for cracks include at the corners of walls and ceilings, usually caused by improper support.
When noticed, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of the structure.
Can hairline cracks in plaster be repaired?
Yes, hairline cracks in plaster can be repaired with either a few simple steps or an intensive repair process. The most important part of repairing a hairline crack in plaster is preparing the crack and wall properly.
To start, you should carefully scrape away any loose plaster or dirt from the crack with a stiff brush and use a vacuum cleaner to clean out as much of the dust as possible. Next, fill the crack with a plaster compound designed specifically for cracks in plaster.
With a putty knife, smooth the compound into the crack while wiping excess away. Then let the compound set, usually overnight depending on the type of plaster used. Once the compound is dry, sand down the area until it is flush with the rest of the wall.
If the crack is in a highly visible area, you may want to apply a thin finishing coat of plaster to blend it into the wall better. Last, repaint the area as necessary. This process should be able to take care of most hairline cracks in plaster.
In more extreme cases, you might need to replace the entire wall with a new coat of plaster.
How can you tell if a crack is structural?
The best way to tell if a crack is structural is to consult with a professional, as this can be difficult to diagnose accurately without the right expertise and experience. However, here are some steps you can take, and signs to look out for, to help you determine if the crack is structural:
– Look for vertical cracks, as they are more likely to be a structural issue than horizontal cracks.
– Try to determine the source of the crack – often cracks that form along nails or seams in the wall are not structural.
– Look out for cracks that line up with the corners of doors and windows – as these may indicate a problem with the framing structure underneath.
– Check for any other signs of structural distress, such as uneven floors, water damage, and doors and windows that don’t open or close properly.
– Get a qualified professional to assess the crack if you’re unsure – these professionals can examine the crack and determine if it is structural or superficial.
Can you skim over hairline cracks?
Yes, it is possible to skim over hairline cracks in order to extend the life of a floor. When done properly, this process fills in the gaps with a durable, yet flexible material that helps prevent further cracking.
It may be best to hire a professional to do this, as it requires specialist knowledge and precision to ensure a good finish. Skim-coating is most often used with wood floors but can also be used with concrete, stone and other materials.
The process is relatively simple but must be done carefully, using the right equipment and products, so that the floor remains structurally sound and safe underfoot. The adhesive should be applied in thin layers and leveled before the product is left to dry and cure.
After this, it can be lightly sanded, sealed and polished.
Do I need to fill hairline cracks before painting?
Yes, it is best to fill hairline cracks before painting, as the paint will not properly adhere to the surface and may flake off over time. To do this, use a sealant specifically designed for the material upon which you are painting.
For example, if you are painting drywall, use a spackling compound. Sealants come in different colors, so make sure to choose one that closely matches the color of your paint. Once the sealant has been applied, let it dry completely before applying your chosen paint.