Cracks in drywall are usually a sign of movement, not just a surface flaw. Fixing them so they stay fixed starts with understanding where they come from.
Filling a crack with compound alone often lets it reappear within a season. Opening the crack, re-taping it and finishing it in stages gives the repair the strength to bridge small movements.
Seasonal humidity changes, settling of framing lumber, and vibration cause small movements in a house. Drywall is rigid, so that movement concentrates at weak points: the corners of door and window openings, joints between sheets and the junction of walls and ceilings.
Hairline cracks from normal movement are common in Ottawa homes, where heating season dries the air and summer humidity swells it again.
The crack is opened slightly and any loose tape or compound is cut away. New tape is embedded across the crack, then covered with thin coats feathered out on both sides. Corner cracks are re-taped or fitted with new corner bead when the old bead has failed.
Nail pops are fixed by setting a screw beside the popped fastener and finishing over both.
Wide cracks, cracks that keep growing, doors that start sticking, or diagonal cracks that run from openings can indicate structural or foundation movement. Those causes should be assessed by a qualified professional before the drywall is repaired.
Clear expectations. A considered plan.
A finish that brings the room together.
A close-up and a wider shot of each area, plus what caused it if you know — a leak, a door handle, settling or old plumbing work.
We confirm whether each spot can be patched or needs a section cut out, and note any moisture issue that must be fixed first.
Damaged board is cut back or backed, taped and filled in several thin coats, with drying time and sanding between each.
The repair is feathered into the surrounding wall or ceiling and checked under normal light so it is ready for primer and paint.
A closer look at each type of project. See all projects.
Tell us what needs doing and where. Prefer to talk? Call (613) 319-4768.
Usually because it was filled without tape, so the next bit of movement reopens it. Re-taping is more durable. If it still returns, the movement behind it should be investigated.
Most hairline cracks at corners and seams are cosmetic and come from normal seasonal movement. Growing or wide cracks deserve a closer look.
Yes. Ceiling cracks along seams and at the wall joint are repaired the same way, with protection for the room below.
Yes — see our drywall hole repair page for holes of every size.
Tell us what you have in mind. Let’s talk about your drywall project.
