Plaster cracks; When to worry and when to patch

It’s not uncommon to spot a crack in your plaster. In fact, most homes (especially older ones) will show a few over time. But how do you know which cracks are harmless and which might be signs of something more serious?

We’re here to walk you through the different types of plaster cracks, what causes them, and how to tell when it’s safe to patch things up yourself. Most importantly, we’ll talk you through when it’s time to call in a professional.

Common types of plaster cracks

·      Hairline cracks – These are typical in new builds or recently renovated properties. As the structure “settles” into place, minor movement can lead to small cracks – often around doors, windows or ceilings.

·      Vertical or horizontal cracks – Cracks running in straight lines could be related to movement or structural shifts. If they’re wider than a few millimeters or getting worse over time, they may need professional inspection.

·      Cracks around doors and windows – Its common to see cracks here due to regular movement and pressure. While most are harmless, diagonal cracks or those accompanied by signs of damp should be checked out.

When it’s safe to patch it yourself

Some cracks are purely cosmetic and can be patched easily at home if your crack is:

·      Less than 1mm wide

·      Not growing over time

·      Free from any signs of damp or staining

If your crack fits this description, then it’s likely to fix it yourself with a suitable filler, sandpaper, and a fresh coat of paint. For the best results, make sure the wall is dry and dust-free before you begin.

When it’s time to call in a professional

If you notice any of the following, it might be time to seek professional advice:

·      Cracks wider than 3mm

·      Cracks that reappear after a repair

·      Cracks accompanied by damp patches or mould

·      Soft or bulging plaster around the crack

·      Diagonal cracks near doors and windows

These could point to a more serious problem like water ingress, structural movement, or underlying damp that compromising plasterwork.

Could damp be the cause?

Damp is a common cause of recurring or worsening cracks. Water can weaken plaster and cause it to crumble or bulge, especially in older buildings or poorly ventilated spaces. If left untreated, damp-related cracks won’t just damage the appearance of your walls – they can lead to much larger repair bills down the line.

At Shield, we always look at the bigger picture. If we suspect damp is behind the problem, we’ll assess your property thoroughly and provide tailored solutions to fix both the cause and the damage.

How Shield can help

Whether you’re dealing with minor surface cracks or something that’s clearly worsening, we’re here to help. We offer:

·      Honest inspections and advice

·      High-quality plaster repair and finishing

·      Expert damp proofing services

·      Friendly, local service with years of experience

No scare tactics, just reliable guidance and workmanship you can trust.