Uncovering the Truth About Cracks in Your Drywall

What Are Drywall Cracks? 

These cracks are more than just unsightly blemishes on your walls and ceilings; they’re symptoms of underlying issues. Drywall cracks are often the result of foundation settlement, a condition where the foundation adjusts or sinks into the earth.  

Due to drywall’s relatively frail composition, it’s prone to damage when subjected to stress. Here’s how to spot distinctive drywall cracks: 

• Cracks that shoot out from the corners of doors or windows 
• Creases that manifest over door and window frames 
• Continuous horizontal or vertical lines across walls or ceilings 
• Spindling cracks that form intricate patterns on your walls and ceilings 

Even minor, hair-thin cracks can be warning signs of foundation settlement. As these cracks grow in size, so does the risk of substantial foundational issues. 

What Causes Drywall Cracks? 

Several factors can contribute to drywall cracks: 

• Foundation Sinking: While it’s normal for homes to settle a bit, uneven or excessive sinking will likely trigger cracks in your drywall. 
• Structural Weakness: Problems such as decaying support beams or a fractured foundation can cause shifts in your home, resulting in cracks. Additionally, the quality of your home’s construction materials could be a factor—lesser quality materials can exacerbate foundational movement and lead to more frequent and severe drywall cracks. 
• Major Home Improvements: Installing heavyweight flooring or adding new structures could stress the foundation and lead to wall cracks. 
• Water-Related Problems: Leaky underground pipes or heavy rain may compromise soil stability, making your foundation susceptible to movement. 

Neglecting these cracks not only affects your home’s durability but also sets the stage for more serious foundation settlement issues down the line. 

Can You Fix Drywall Cracks? 

Yes, but a permanent solution calls for professional expertise! While a DIY approach might offer a momentary fix, it doesn’t treat the core foundation issues; the cracks will reappear.  

If you’re thinking of selling your home down the line, unresolved cracks can become a red flag for potential buyers, reducing your property’s value significantly. It’s important to keep these points in mind when considering a fix for the issue.  

• Minor cracks may be filled and repainted, but this is only a band-aid solution if the root foundation settlement issues aren’t addressed. 
• Severe cracks might necessitate drywall replacement even after professional foundation repair solutions have been implemented. 

How AFS Provides a Lasting Solution 

Why Repair Drywall Cracks Now? 

Addressing the issue promptly offers multiple benefits, including safeguarding your home against further damage and potentially saving you money on repairs in the long term.  

For instance, untreated cracks can grow, affecting not only the walls but also potentially causing issues with plumbing or electrical systems embedded in those walls. 

• Untreated cracks can grow, potentially causing more severe structural concerns. 
• Unattended cracks can result in pricier foundation repairs later on. 
• Allowing cracks to persist exacerbates foundation degradation, especially from moisture. 
• Not resolving cracks negatively impacts your home’s aesthetic and market value. 

The longer you delay, the more complex and costly the repair process becomes. 

Choose AFS Today! 

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How Much Does Foundation Repair Cost? 

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