Friday, 4 October 2013

How To Fix Drywall Cracks Permanently

By Lori Philipps


If your foundation is settling, repairing drywall cracks can be difficult. However, it will be easy to get rid of this problem if you follow the steps listed below. Feel free to contact your local drywall specialist for help if you don't have the time to do so.

It is important to gather all the tools and materials needed before proceeding. When carrying out large-scale repairs secure the area and do not allow anyone to enter the room during the process. For those with respiratory conditions, wear a face mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. Protect your furniture from dusting by covering them with plastic sheets or cloth.

Get started by taping the crack with a fiberglass mesh tape. This is better than applying a coating of drywall mud over the crack since it will eventually come back as your house continues to settle. Mesh tapes are easier to use than paper tapes since they are self-adhesive.

Make the tape adhere to wall by applying a layer of spackling compound with primer. Doing this prevents the drywall from having a bubbled surface and eliminates air pockets at the same time. Your drywall may look bumpy if you apply a generous amount of spackling.

Apply the spackling compound from the middle of tape going outwards. This prevents the tape from wrinkling as it dries for half an hour. You may want to go back to one of your household tasks to let the surface dry smooth.

For the second coating, use a wider taping knife to apply the spackling compound. Remember to feather the panel out on the edges by applying more pressure to it. This should cover the damaged area as if nothing happened. If the surface is not yet smooth enough, apply a final coating of spackling compound.

You can directly paint the drywall since the compound already has a primer in it. If you prefer using spray paints, make sure not to hold the nozzle too close to the wall for a natural look. To avoid having brush marks, purchase paint rollers instead of brushes.

Following these easy steps should prevent your drywall from cracking anytime soon. If you think your drywall cracks more often than the usual, you may have to consult a home inspector to check your foundation. For professional help, you can always ask the experts to handle your drywall concerns.




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