The longer a structure has been in existence for a long time, its more likely will be to experience cracks in its structure. If you’re unsure what type of crack is present on your ceiling, it’s recommended to have it examined by a specialist with fixing ceilings and installation.
What’s the reason there’s a hole within my roof?
Cracks in ceilings can occur for a variety of reasons. They can be superficial and be repaired in no time, but others could be indicative of a larger issue that should be handled by professionals. In this article, we will look at two types of cracks you should look for and what they can tell you about your ceiling.
Hairline versus Structural Cracks
The shape, size and the location that a crack in the ceiling has may aid in determining the root of the issue and determine the next steps.
- The hairline crack (or spiderweb cracks) are most often found in walls, ceilings or concrete slabs. They can also be found in grout joints. They tend to develop when a structure is aging due to settlement of the structure, or the accumulation of paint layers. Small cracks need not be a cause to be concerned about as long as they are not larger than 1.5mm wide. If, however, you’re in any way concerned seek out an expert with ceiling installations. In most cases, a thin layer of joint compound that has been premixed and then topped with a coating of paint is enough to resolve this issue cosmetically. Cracks that are hairline along the edges of a ceiling can be fairly normal. However, cracks that are visible within the center of the ceiling or are caused by the ceiling being bowed or sagging are a red flag. They require immediate attention from a professional because they indicate a bigger structural problem.
- Structural cracks can be found across the length of ceilings and typically extend to the walls. They are typically larger than 1.5mm and are longer than 60cm. They can also be found at more than one location. They can run vertically or diagonally through sheets drywall, and may be followed by sagging or bowing ceilings. Cracks like this require immediate ceiling repairs in Sydney to ensure that everyone inside the building safe, and also to prevent any further damage that is costly.
What is Causing Your Ceiling to Crack?
The longer a structure has been around longer, its more prone it will be to experience cracks in its structure. In addition, depending on the area you reside in the property could become more or less susceptible to the effects of natural events. Any other work you do to a home can impact the strength of its foundation and structure. Here are some causes that could have led to your ceiling to bow or bow. It could also crack.
- Temperature: The expansion or shrinkage of a structure occurs because of fluctuation in temperature during the seasons. The erratic changes in temperature can put strain on ceiling materials and can cause cracks to form.
- Moisture: The presence of moisture or humidity that is lingering within the atmosphere or flowing through the building structure could cause cracks to the ceiling’s material and paint. It could be an excellent idea to look for leaks in your roofing or plumbing when there is evidence of water damage on your ceiling.
- Settlement: The expansion or consolidation of the soil underneath your office or home causes the foundation to shift which is known as settlement. All buildings move, regardless of the material they are made out of. It is a natural process that occurs with time.
- Poor craftsmanship Framing or foundation was not properly done at the time that the structure was constructed. Also, either too much or not enough water could be used in conjunction with the joint compounds.
- A lot of weight in buildings that have more than one floor, attics or insulation that is not properly installed could cause ceilings cracking due to the weight they carry. Additionally, electronics and furniture that are placed on the ceiling’s floor could put pressure upon the ceiling beams beneath.
- Problems with ceiling joists A damaged, improperly sized and poorly spaced ceiling joists can cause sagging and lead to ceiling cracks.
- Walls are changed: The removal of a wall and not changing it by something that can strengthen the structure in general can weaken the structure of a structure. Truss uplift that begins at the point when the walls touch the ceiling, could result from structural or environmental issues which can cause ceilings to crack.
- Natural phenomenons: small tremors, earthquakes, sinkholes, slope creep and the ageing of construction material are but some examples of natural phenomena that can cause changes to the structure that cause cracks in the ceiling.
In general, buildings tend to begin to show cracks as they get older. Cracks that are hairline in nature are usually a fairly simple to fix on a weekend with just a application of joint compound and paint. Although it can seem tempting to apply paint to a crack that is larger and call it a night however, over the long term it can cost more than what it’s worth. Buildings are big investment that require careful and routine maintenance to ensure the most value for their money. To stay on the safe side employ a trustworthy contractor with a specialization on the installation of ceilings to evaluate the issue and advise you on the steps to take.
