What Causes Cracks in the Ceiling?

Ceiling cracks are unpleasant to look at and should be noted when they appear or spread. It is important to be able to note the difference between cracks associated with age and those that result from structural damage.

Because all structures shift over time, cracks can result as a natural component of the aging process. They can also serve as indicators of foundation failure. If this is the case, it is important to repair the underlying foundation problem in a timely fashion.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fixing ceiling cracks. Different types of ceiling cracks indicate different problems. Determining which type of crack is affecting your ceiling is the first step to fixing it.

Common Types of Ceiling Cracks

Spider Web Cracks

Spider web cracks in the ceiling, as the name suggests, resemble the web patterns of everyone’s least favorite creepy crawly. These types of cracks not only occur in the ceiling, but also in the walls and floors. Although they are usually reflective of age and routine home settling, cracks larger than 1/16 inch demand attention as they are indicators of foundation issues.

Vertical Cracks

Vertical cracks run the length of the ceiling and continue to run down the wall along the same plane. Vertical cracks are usually a symptom of foundation problems or weak wall studs.

Bowed Ceiling

Bowed ceilings and walls are a telltale sign of serious foundation problems. They appear as a ceiling crack accompanied by a prominent bow in the ceiling. This is reflective of failing support beams that are causing the ceiling to sink and crack.

The Location of the Ceiling Crack is Important

It is also important to take into account the location of the cracks in your ceiling. This can help in determining the magnitude of the problem. Cracks that trace the edges of the ceiling are typically not an issue, rather, they are a product of the natural settling process.

If cracks develop in the center of the ceiling, it indicates a deeper structural issue. Additionally, the size of the cracks in your ceiling can suggest the urgency of the problem. Small, thin cracks are far easier and cheaper to repair, whereas longer wider cracks are much more cause for concern.

Ceiling Crack Repair

One way to fix ceiling cracks related to foundation failure is to install steel foundation piers. Ground Up Foundation Repair uses the strongest steel piers in the industry, manufactured by ECP (Earth Contact Products). Their industry-leading products will come with a lifetime transferrable warranty.

Steel foundation piers are simple to install and are constructed to withstand heavy-duty loads and brutal conditions. They keep foundation repair costs down. The piers are driven deep into the stable ground, far below the top layers of shifting soil. They are then used to lift the foundation to its intended level.

Using steel foundation piers in the stabilization process anchors the foundation and prevents future complications.

The verified contractors at Ground Up Foundation Repair are experts when it comes to diagnosing foundation problems related to ceiling cracks. If you are experiencing ceiling cracks in your Middle Tennessee home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse before doing something about it.

Contact us today to receive an estimate for quality foundation repair services. Our service area covers all of Middle Tennessee.