Ceiling repair

[edit] Introduction

Ceiling cracks can be caused by issues such as:

• Changes in the temperature.
• Settlement.
• Additional weight from extensions or other renovations.
• Other structural changes.

[edit] Dealing with cracks

Depending on the size and severity of ceiling cracks, three questions may arise:

1. Is this cause for concern?
2. How much will it cost?
3. Is professional repair required?

It's a good idea to monitor ceiling cracks to know how and when to repair them. If a ceiling crack is accompanied by a wall crack, or it is rather large, this may justify professional repair assistance or to seek advice about possible structural problems.

If the ceiling crack has impacted cornice work, or a ceiling rose, this will have an impact on the project as well, since it will be necessary for the repair to stay consistent with other rooms.

[edit] The repair process

The composition of the ceiling should be checked before a repair project is attempted. Once the composition of the ceiling is established, there are several steps in the repair process.

The following tools are recommended for a project of this type:

• Plaster knife.
• Ceiling crack repair tape.
• Lightweight, fast drying filler.
• Paintbrush or roller, paint tray, tape, drop sheet.
• Ceiling paint (preferably a colour that already matches the ceiling).
• Protective equipment.
• Spirit level to test if the crack falls between two separate surfaces.

[edit] The repair method

To clean and tape the ceiling crack:

• Scrape away any dried paint or debris from the crack, going back to sound plaster.
• Use a damp cloth to clean the area.
• Let the area dry.
• Apply reinforcement if necessary such as crack repair tape.
• Apply a first coat of filler such as bonding to patch the crack.
• If bonding is used on larger areas, score the bonding to give a key for the next coat of filler to adhere to.
• Wait for the filler to dry.
• Smooth the area.
• Apply a second coat of finishing filler.
• Wait for the filler to dry.
• Sand the ceiling surface.
• Clean down the surface to remove any dust.
• Prime the surface.
• Paint the ceiling.

Labour rates vary, depending on what is included in the scope of work. Will it include painting the repair and removing any rubbish? The price of the repair project may also depend on the level of complexity.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Ceiling.
• Defects in brickwork.
• Definition of ceiling.
• Dry lining.
• Fillers.
• Lath and plaster.
• Plaster.