What Does Cracks In The Ceiling Mean

These cracks can be caused when a drywall joint wasn t properly taped or mudded.

What does cracks in the ceiling mean. Vertical cracks run the. A large amount of force coming from the upper floor can be enough to cause ceiling cracks over the lower one. Large cracks on a bowed ceiling could indicate a structural problem.

Obviously the former is preferred as it points to a simple repair need but don t be dismayed by the possibility of the second. If the crack is vertical and starts near the apex where the wall and ceiling meet it might be a sign that it was created when the foundation settled after construction. Plaster wood and other materials will crack under stress and pressure that s accumulated over time.

The tape may not be sticking to the drywall and so a crack appears where the edge of the tape is. Cracks that occur near the edges of your ceiling are not usually an issue for concern but those that cut through the middle of your ceiling are likely structural and will require repair. Cracks that cause concern are those which run across the length of a ceiling and then continue down a wall along the same line.

Is there a bow or dip that accompanies your cracks. This type of crack suggest that there may be a structural issue i e. If your ceilings are plastered cracks are often attributable to weathering of the plaster.

When a ceiling bows or sags you have a problem that requires prompt attention. Cracks in drywall can be caused by truss uplift or vibrations from an appliance such as a ceiling fan. They are either the result of natural aging or structural damage.

It s like the drywall is ripped apart. Basically a continuous crack going through the ceiling and the wall. A foundation issue or framing issue.