How do you fix cracked drywall taped seams?

Drywall cracks and seam separations are common issues in any home. While minor cracks may not require immediate repair, significant cracking or gapping along taped drywall seams can become problematic if left unchecked. Repairing cracked drywall seams helps restore the look of walls and prevents further damage from occurring. Thankfully, fixing drywall tape cracks is a relatively straightforward DIY project.

What causes drywall seams to crack?

There are several potential causes of cracked drywall tape and seam separations:

• Normal building settlement or foundation movement over time
• Wood framing shrinking or warping as the home ages
• Changes in temperature and humidity leading to expansion/contraction
• Stress on walls from hanging heavy objects or impact
• Inadequate taping job during initial drywall installation

The main seam running vertically where two drywall sheets meet is most prone to cracking. However, horizontal seams along ceilings or where drywall butt joints meet can also crack. The mesh taping along seams becomes compromised over time, leading to visible cracking and gaps.

When to repair drywall seam cracks

Minor cracks under 1/16 inch wide may not require immediate repair in most cases. However, it’s a good idea to fix any cracked drywall seams that are wider than this threshold. Other good times to repair cracked drywall tape include:

• Before repainting walls, to ensure the new paint adheres properly
• If cracks are worsening or spreading to other areas of the wall
• Before undertaking other drywall repairs or installations in the same area
• If cracked seams are an eyesore or becoming noticeable

Addressing issues proactively can prevent more extensive repairs later on. Leaving cracked seams too long also increases the likelihood of additional damage or failure.

Prep work for repairing drywall seams

Proper prep work is crucial to achieve clean, long-lasting drywall seam repairs. Follow these steps to get cracks ready for patching:

1. Use a sharp utility knife to cut away any loose flaps of existing drywall tape. Remove loose pieces and debris.
2. Widen the crack slightly by cutting a “V” shape into it using the utility knife. This helps the patching compound adhere.
3. Use a drywall sanding block to rough up the painted surface around the cracked seam. This improves adhesion.
4. Brush or vacuum away all dust and particles from sanding.

DIY repair process

Fixing cracked drywall seams involves re-applying tape and joint compound over the damaged areas. Follow these steps:

1. Apply a thin layer of drywall joint compound over the crack and surrounding area using a taping knife. Embed new mesh drywall tape into this layer and smooth it out.
2. Allow the first coat to fully dry as recommended by the compound manufacturer. Typically 24 hours.
3. Apply a second coat, feathering it out onto the wall around the taped seam. Let dry completely.
4. Apply a third, final coat focused just over the seam and feathered out slightly. Let dry.
5. Once fully dry, sand the repairs smooth using 100-150 grit sandpaper.
6. Clean off dust and prime repaired seams before painting.
7. Paint over repairs using a small artist’s brush and touch up surrounding wall areas as needed.

Applying three thin, feathered coats ensures a smooth seamless repair. Take your time with each layer. Rushing the process can lead to re-cracking issues later on. Letting each coat dry fully prevents problems like blistering or wrinkling of the repair.

Tips for effective drywall seam repairs

• Use fiberglass mesh tape rated for drywall instead of paper tape. It is stronger and more crack-resistant.
• Avoid over-sanding between coats which can thin the joint compound.
• For corners and angles, fold the tape vertically along the center before embedding it.
• Minimize textured finishes when repairing cracks to prevent disguising seam issues.
• Consider using setting-type joint compound for the final coat to speed drying.

Why does my repaired drywall seam crack again?

If a repaired drywall seam cracks once more, there are a few potential causes to consider:

• Not allowing proper drying time between coats of compound
• Applying coats too thickly without adequate feathering
• Failing to address ongoing foundation or framing issues
• Using low quality joint compound prone to cracking
• Not priming before painting which leads to inadequate paint adhesion
• Ongoing environmental factors like humidity changes

Carefully examine what may be causing recurring cracks and adjust your repair approach accordingly. Wider seam separations may need backing with wood or drywall screws first. Seek professional help for ongoing foundational problems.

When to call a drywall pro

While DIY repairs work for minor drywall seam cracks, it’s best to call in a professional drywall contractor for more significant issues like:

• Multiple seam cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Drywall damage spanning large wall sections
• Signs of foundational or framing problems causing cracks
• Water damage behind drywall needing replacement
• No access to attics/crawlspaces to address root causes
• Failed previous attempts at repairing seams

Pros have specialized tools, materials, and techniques for addressing underlying problems causing chronic cracking. This provides longer lasting solutions. They can also patch large damaged areas much more efficiently.

Cost to repair drywall seams

For minor DIY drywall seam repairs, expect costs between $10 and $30 depending on required materials. Larger professional repairs cost $200 to $500 on average depending on size, location, and complexity. Factors impacting cost include:

• Size of the damaged drywall area
• Accessibility of the damage site
• Need for surface preparation/priming
• Required drywall replacement vs just retaping
• Professional vs DIY work
• Number of seams/corners needing repair
• Required materials and tools

Get multiple quotes when hiring a pro to fix extensive drywall damage or chronic cracking issues.

Conclusion

Repairing cracked drywall seams keeps your walls looking their best and prevents more costly damage. With some basic tools and materials, minor cracks are easy to patch using mesh tape and drywall compound applied in thin coats. Seek professional help for large, complex drywall repairs. Addressing problems early and properly is key to preventing recurring cracks in the same spots.