Whether they’re gradual or they appear seemingly overnight, cracks in your ceilings can be an alarming sight if you don’t know where they came from or what you can do about them. As often as they’re indicative of a problem with your foundation or your framework, they can be simple enough that they just need to be patched and painted. Here’s what every homeowner should know about ceiling cracks.

Why Do I Have Them?

Weakened Foundations

Sudden cracks can be due to larger foundation issues. Your ceilings depend on the strength of the foundation to remain strong, even, and stable, and shifts and imbalances at the base of your house can cause problems all the way to the top. But rather than thinking of it as alarming, you can take it as an early warning sign that allows you to do something to correct your foundation problems before it’s too late.

Moisture & Temperature

One of the most common causes of cracks is changes in moisture and temperature. When these components are in flux, dry plaster can absorb moisture and shift and crack as it expands or contracts with the temperature. A telltale sign of this problem is dark or yellow staining.

Excessive Weight

Your ceilings carry the weight of the floor above them, and this weight pressing down can cause cracks and warping. Plaster or drywall under the weight of fixtures and appliances like those found in bathrooms or stored belongings in attics can cause this problem. This is particularly true in older houses where construction materials may have settled or weakened.

What Do I Do About Them?

For minor cracks that aren’t causing any visible problems, it can be enough to patch them with a plaster compound and repaint them as necessary. Many cracks show up simply because houses naturally settle as they age, so as long as there’s no significant structural problem behind them, cracks are a relatively benign issue. Moisture can be dried with heat after the source is identified and eliminated, and the crack then patched and covered.

For major troubles like unexplained weight shifts or foundational issues, it’s always best to consult with a professional foundation repair or structural specialist. These experts will be able to identify the source of the problem and advise you on next steps. Once you know what the trouble is, you’ll be able to confidently resolve any damage and restore your home to its original condition.

  If you’re having concerns about cracks in your ceilings, get in touch with Ionic Casting in Long Island City, NY. For more than 50 years, Ionic Casting has been providing exceptional advice and service for ornamental casting and plastering. Friendly professionals are on call and dedicated to providing you the best solutions possible. Find out more about how they can help online or by calling (718) 786-7670 today.