How to Repair Drywall Cracks: A Guide for Ocean Shores, WA Homeowners

Drywall gives clean form and completeness to your interior walls. But all it takes is one hairline fracture snaking across the wall, and your entire flawless aesthetic is thrown off. Besides bemoaning, “Why me?” you may also be asking yourself, why does drywall crack in the first place? While you may not be able to control the fissure fate of your walls, knowing the cause of your drywall defect can help you make a proper repair.

Why Does Drywall Crack in Ocean Shores, WA?

In Ocean Shores, WA, where the weather can be quite diverse throughout the year, drywall is most likely to fracture at the seams where two sections of drywall converge. These joints are the weakest points of the wall and are the most susceptible to any upsets. There are many stresses that can cause the seams to crack, and Ocean Shores’ unique climate can contribute to these issues.

1. Temperature Changes: Ocean Shores experiences temperature changes throughout the year. These fluctuations can cause the drywall to expand and contract, exerting pressure on seams. This is especially common in vacation homes that are not climate-controlled full-time.
2. Settling of Homes: The settling of the dwelling itself can also be behind drywall cracks. This type of damage is usually identified by vertical cracks extending along the corners, windows, or door jambs of the room and may be common in either new builds or older homes as they settle on the foundation.
3. Faulty Installation: Faulty installation may also be the root cause of a drywall fracture. A thin, straight crack in the drywall could be the result of drywall seams that are either improperly taped or were not covered sufficiently with drywall mud.

Take the time to investigate the source of the drywall stress before mending the wall to avoid repeated drywall repairs.

How to Repair Drywall Cracks in Ocean Shores, WA

If you’re a homeowner in Ocean Shores, WA dealing with drywall cracks, fear not! Fortunately, slight cracks and hairline fractures in drywall are generally painless to repair, and you can tackle this as a DIY project. Here’s what you will need:

Tools:

• Mud pan
• Utility knife
• 6-inch putty knife
• 12-inch taping knife

Materials:

• Paper drywall tape
• Pre-mix joint compound
• Setting compound
• Painters’ tape (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Area If the crack is near any woodwork or trim, cover it with painter’s tape to protect the surface. Next, use the utility knife to cut a V-shaped notch the entire length of the crack. Clear any debris from the cut (a shop vac could be handy).

Step 2: Apply Drywall Tape Apply 1/8 inch of joint compound over the crack and embed a strip of drywall tape. Use the 6-inch putty knife to squeeze out excess compound and air from the strip of tape. Smooth out a thin layer of joint compound over the top of the strip, extending a few inches of the compound on each side of the strip. Let it dry completely.

Step 3: Smooth It Out After the compound has dried, scrape off any excess or rough spots with the putty knife. Employ the 12-inch taping knife to apply a second or third layer of joint compound over the tape. Use long strokes to smooth out the compound. Feather it out 5 to 6 inches beyond each side of the tape. Once again, let it dry, and then scrape off or sand any dry particles before painting.

Contact Greg Your Local Contractor for Drywall Repair in Ocean Shores, WA

If you find yourself facing drywall cracks that are beyond your DIY skills or if you simply prefer to leave it to the experts, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Greg Your Local Contractor. We specialize in drywall repair and can help restore the beauty of your Ocean Shores, WA home. Contact us today for a consultation and let us handle your drywall repair needs professionally.

Don’t let drywall cracks mar the look of your home; take action today with Greg Your Local Contractor!