A foundation issue or framing issue.
What causes cracks in walls and ceilings uk.
However cracks along joints that connect upstairs ceilings and partition walls could be a sign there are problems with your roof truss which could end up with walls coming away from ceilings.
Ceiling cracks that run across the ceiling to the wall and then downward on the wall.
Homes naturally settle as they age which can create crevices in the walls and ceilings typically above doors.
Leaky windows and roofs can cause moisture to get into your home s walls.
These cracks are serious and require professional attention.
This causes the drywall to get wet soften and deteriorate which then leads to cracking.
How to determine if the cracks in walls are serious.
This is a sign of structural damage usually related to a weak wall.
This type of crack suggest that there may be a structural issue i e.
Ceiling cracks accompanied by wall cracks could be the result of the house settling.
Vacation homes and those that sit empty for a few months are prone to developing cracks in both walls and ceilings.
Cracks in the walls of your home could indicate serious foundation issues but that s not always the case.
Cracks that cause concern are those which run across the length of a ceiling and then continue down a wall along the same line.
For example hairline cracks around windows shouldn t cause problems.
If the cracks in your walls are showing discoloration such as brown or yellow tinted stains then the problem may be the result of water damage to your home.
Expansion and contraction with hot and cold weather changes along with normal settling can change wall to ceiling alignment and can cause cracks in both these areas.
Basically a continuous crack going through the ceiling and the wall.
This is due to the house not being.
Where the crack is can also tell you how serious it is.
Small cracks located above interior windows or doors are usually harmless.
Ceiling cracks generally follow the joints between drywall sheets and as long as they remain minor with widths of less than 1 8 inch you can patch them with tape and joint.
A crack is continuous though the wall and ceiling.
We explore which cracks are cause for concern.