Drywall cracks can be found in both new construction and older homes. They can be found in the ceiling, around seams, and around doors. You may be asking yourself, “Are drywall cracks serious?” These types of cracks are common and aren’t usually an immediate threat if the cracks are small. However if you do notice cracks in your drywall, it is wise to monitor them for changes in growth. Larger and wider cracks can indicate an issue with your foundation, so before you try a DIY fix, make sure to have your home checked out for structural problems.

Reasons for Drywall Cracks

1. New Construction: Small cracks are common in newly built homes. New lumber tends to move as it dries since it contains higher moisture levels. These cracks can usually be fixed by simply retyping the joints.
2. Normal House Settling: Weather changes and time will cause a house to move, causing small cracks above windows or doors. These are not typically cause for concern unless you see a lot of them or if they become wider or deeper.
3. Vacant Home: A house that has been left without climate control, like a vacation home, can develop homes. Depending on how long the house has been vacant, it might be a good idea to have the cracks checked out by a professional.
4. Faulty Taping: Thin straight cracks are usually a sign of faulty taping. If a sea isn’t properly sealed, the tape can pull away, leaving a small thin crack.
5. Leak: If you notice a discoloration around a cracks, it is probably due to a leak. Before you repair the crack, it is important to find the source of the leak and repair it. Once you know there is no chance of further damage, then you can repair the crack, if the leak reveals significant water damage, call a professional right away.
6. Foundation Issues: Jagged, wide, or diagonal cracks can be a sign of a more serious foundation issue. If you are not sure if the cracks are wide enough for concern, a good rule of thumb is to have cracks larger tan 1/8 of an inch checked out. These kinds of cracks should be handles by a professional as soon as possible.

Rely on Foundation Repair Experts

If you are wondering, “How do you know if a wall crack is serious?” and are unsure about the severity of the cracks in your drywall, let the foundation experts help! IWP is dedicated to finding foundation repair solutions to make sure your home is safe. Even if the cracks are small, we can come out to your home for an inspection and provide a solution to combat both the cracks and any underlying issues. Some common solutions include stabilizing the foundation or re-leveling to restore your home’s structural integrity, and utilizing steel foundation anchors to support your home as it was originally designed. Contact us for a free consultation!

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