Cracks in walls and ceilings can be a frustrating sight for any homeowner. They not only diminish the aesthetic appeal of your space but also raise concerns about potential structural issues. While some cracks may signify minor wear and tear, others could indicate more serious underlying problems. But what can really cause the cracks in the first place? Read on to find out the answers.

New Home Settling

When you move into a brand new home, it’s natural to experience some settling. The construction materials used in your house, such as wood and concrete, can undergo slight shifts as they adapt to the surrounding environment. This settling process can manifest itself in the form of small cracks in walls and ceilings.

These cracks are typically thin and appear near door frames or corners. The settling process occurs due to changes in temperature and humidity levels within your home. These fluctuations cause materials like drywall to expand and contract slightly, leading to minor cracks forming on the surface. They may seem alarming at first, but rest assured – they are usually harmless.

Leaving House Vacant for Months

Have you ever left your house empty for an extended period? Maybe you went on a long vacation or had to relocate due to work. While it may seem harmless, leaving your house vacant for months can actually lead to cracks in the walls and ceilings.

Why does this happen? Well, when a house is occupied, there are constant movement and temperature changes that help maintain stability. However, when a house is left unoccupied for months at a time, it becomes vulnerable to various factors such as humidity levels and lack of ventilation.

During the winter months, if the heating system is turned off completely or set too low, moisture can accumulate within the walls. This excess moisture can cause the building materials to expand and contract, which will result in cracks forming over time.

Poor Drywall Taping

This is a common issue that can occur during the construction or renovation process. When drywall sheets are installed, they need to be taped and mudded to set up a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering. However, if this step is not done properly, it can lead to problems down the line.

Poorly taped seams can result in visible cracks as well as uneven surfaces. Over time, these cracks may become more noticeable because the temperature and humidity changes can cause the walls and ceilings to expand and contract. Aside from that, if there are gaps or air pockets behind the drywall tape, it can weaken the overall structure of your walls or ceilings.

Structural Foundation Problems

Now things are getting more serious. Cracks in walls can form due to foundation issues. Due to various factors, which include poor construction practices, soil settlement, or even natural disasters like earthquakes, cracks can happen, which can actually be a sign of further major problems in your home.

The common signs of foundation problems include vertical cracks that appear near windows or doors, diagonal cracks that form at a 45-degree angle on walls or ceilings, uneven floors, doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly, and gaps between walls and ceiling. If you notice any of these signs in your home, it’s a must to address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Cracks in walls and ceilings can be caused by a variety of factors. If you have concerns about specific instances of cracking in your home, it is always best to talk to a professional contractor who can assess the situation accurately.…