Symptoms
- Thin crack, often near a doorway, window, or ceiling corner
- Crack doesn't widen noticeably over time
- No cracking in the foundation or major shifting of doors and windows
Likely causes
- CommonNormal house settlingWood-frame houses shift slightly with seasons and moisture, cracking paint or joint compound.
- CommonDrywall tape joint failureCracks that follow a straight line are often at a taped seam between drywall sheets.
- Less commonStructural movementWide, diagonal, or growing cracks, especially paired with sticking doors, can point to foundation issues.
What to do
- Note the crack's direction, width, and whether it's growing over weeks.
- Widen the crack slightly with a utility knife so patching compound can grip.
- Apply mesh or paper tape over the crack.
- Cover with a thin layer of joint compound, feathering the edges wide.
- Let dry, then sand smooth and apply a second thin coat if needed.
- Prime the patch and paint to match.
- Recheck in a few months to see if the crack returns, which can signal ongoing movement.
Tools and parts
- Utility knife
- Taping knife
- Sandpaper
Mesh drywall tapeSearch: “self-adhesive drywall joint tape”
When to call a pro
Call a structural engineer or foundation contractor if cracks are wide, diagonal, growing fast, or accompanied by sticking doors and uneven floors.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.