Trusted Furniture Repair & Restoration in Bishops Stortford

Common Causes of Cracks In Your Home. Natural Movement: Buildings naturally settle over time, causing minor cracks in ceilings and walls. This is common in older properties. Poor Construction: Inadequate taping and filling during drywall installation can lead to straight cracks along joints. Truss Uplift: Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity can cause wooden roof trusses to move, resulting in cracks where the wall meets the ceiling. Water Damage: Leaks from plumbing or roofs can cause discolored cracks, often accompanied by brown or yellow stains. Structural Issues: More serious cracks, such as large, deep cracks or those accompanied by sagging, may indicate structural damage due to foundation settlement or excessive load. Types of Cracks Hairline Cracks: Thin, less than 1/16 inch, often due to paint build-up or plaster expansion and contraction. These are usually cosmetic. Straight Cracks: Typically caused by poor drywall installation and not structurally significant. Discolored Cracks: Indicate water damage and need to be investigated for leaks. Spiderweb Cracks: Radiate from a central point and can be a sign of foundation settling if they are large. Cracks with Sagging: Large cracks in the center of the ceiling, sometimes with sagging, are a sure sign of structural damage and require immediate attention. When to Worry Large Cracks: Cracks larger than 3mm or those that span more than 12 inches should be inspected by a professional.