Smooth Walls Again: A Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Drywall Cracks from Settling
Drywall cracks caused by house settling or temperature changes are frustratingly common. While easy to cover with a dab of spackle, these stress cracks will often reappear because the underlying structural movement hasn’t been accounted for. To achieve a true permanent drywall crack repair, you need to reinforce the area.
This step-by-step guide to repairing drywall cracks from settling details the professional method using the right materials and techniques to ensure your walls stay smooth for good.
Step 1: Preparation is Key (V-Grooving the Crack)
The most common mistake is patching over a hairline crack. For a repair to last, the compound needs to adhere deeply.
- Safety First: Put on safety glasses and a dust mask.
- Open the Crack: Use a sharp utility knife to carefully cut along the length of the crack, creating a slight bevel or a shallow “V” shape. This V-groove allows the repair compound to