Wall cracks are a common sight in many homes, especially in older or new buildings. While small cracks may seem insignificant at first, they can worsen over time, potentially leading to bigger problems. Understanding the types of wall cracks, their causes, and how to repair them yourself can save you money and prevent further damage. However, there are instances where professional help is needed, especially when the cracks are beyond simple DIY fixes.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the types of wall cracks commonly found in Singapore homes, their causes, and a range of DIY repair methods. We’ll also provide a step-by-step guide for fixing small cracks on your own and offer advice on when to call a professional for assistance.

Common Types of Wall Cracks and Their Causes

Wall cracks can develop due to a variety of reasons, ranging from natural settling to structural issues. Here are some common types of cracks you might encounter in your home:

1. Hairline Cracks

• Description: Hairline cracks are very thin, often less than 1mm wide, and usually appear in the paint or plaster of a wall. They’re superficial and don’t pose a significant structural risk.
• Cause: These cracks often occur as a result of normal settling of the building over time. Temperature changes, humidity fluctuations, and natural shrinkage of plaster or paint can also contribute to their formation.

2. Diagonal Cracks

• Description: Diagonal cracks typically run at an angle across a wall and can vary in width. They’re more concerning than hairline cracks as they may indicate underlying issues.
• Cause: These cracks are usually caused by uneven settling of the building’s foundation. If one part of the foundation settles faster than the other, it can result in diagonal stress on the walls, leading to cracks.

3. Horizontal Cracks

• Description: Horizontal cracks run parallel to the floor and are often more severe than other types of cracks. They can vary in width but are a common sign of serious issues.
• Cause: Horizontal cracks are typically caused by external pressure on the walls, such as water damage or structural shifts. These cracks can indicate problems with the building’s foundation or even damage to the walls themselves.

4. Vertical Cracks

• Description: Vertical cracks run up and down a wall and are usually less concerning than diagonal or horizontal cracks.
• Cause: These cracks are often caused by the natural shrinking and expansion of building materials over time. They’re more common in new homes as the materials settle.

5. Stair-Step Cracks

• Description: Stair-step cracks follow the mortar joints of brick walls and resemble a set of stairs. These cracks can be small or wide, and are a clear sign of structural issues.
• Cause: Stair-step cracks are caused by foundation settling or shifting. In homes built with bricks or concrete blocks, these cracks can be a warning sign of serious foundation problems.

DIY Methods for Wall Crack Repair in Singapore

While some wall cracks are beyond DIY repair, many small and non-structural cracks can be fixed using basic tools and materials. Here are some methods you can use to repair common types of cracks on your own.

1. Hairline Crack Repair

Hairline cracks, being superficial, are usually the easiest to fix. Follow these steps for a quick repair:

• Step 1: Clean the crack with a small brush or vacuum to remove any dust or loose debris.
• Step 2: Apply a thin layer of wall putty or filler to the crack using a putty knife. Make sure to spread the filler evenly over the crack.
• Step 3: Let the filler dry for the recommended time (usually a few hours).
• Step 4: Once the filler is dry, sand the area lightly to smooth it out.
• Step 5: Paint over the repaired area to match the rest of the wall.

This method works well for minor cosmetic cracks caused by settling or paint shrinkage.

2. Diagonal Crack Repair

Diagonal cracks may require more attention due to the potential for underlying issues. Here’s how to repair them:

• Step 1: Use a chisel or scraper to widen the crack slightly. This will allow the filler to adhere more effectively.
• Step 2: Clean the crack thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
• Step 3: Apply a layer of flexible crack filler, which is designed to accommodate slight movement in the wall. Use a putty knife to smooth the filler over the crack.
• Step 4: Let the filler dry completely.
• Step 5: Sand the area to create a smooth surface, then paint over the repaired crack.

If the crack reappears or worsens over time, it may be a sign of deeper structural issues, and you should consult a professional.

3. Horizontal Crack Repair

Horizontal cracks, particularly those near the base of a wall, should be approached with caution. If the crack is small and appears to be non-structural, you can attempt a DIY repair.

• Step 1: Clean the crack thoroughly and remove any loose debris.
• Step 2: Use a chisel to widen the crack slightly, providing better adhesion for the filler.
• Step 3: Apply an epoxy filler, which is stronger than regular wall putty and can provide better reinforcement for horizontal cracks.
• Step 4: Smooth the filler with a putty knife and allow it to dry completely.
• Step 5: Sand the area and repaint as needed.

For large or growing horizontal cracks, it’s important to consult a structural engineer to assess potential foundation issues.

4. Vertical Crack Repair

Vertical cracks are generally less serious and can be repaired similarly to hairline cracks.

• Step 1: Widen the crack slightly with a chisel or scraper.
• Step 2: Clean the crack to remove debris.
• Step 3: Fill the crack with flexible wall filler, smoothing it out with a putty knife.
• Step 4: Let the filler dry completely.
• Step 5: Sand the area smooth and repaint.

This method is effective for cracks caused by natural expansion and contraction of the building materials.

5. Stair-Step Crack Repair

Stair-step cracks often indicate a foundation issue, but for minor cases, you can perform a temporary DIY repair.

• Step 1: Widen the crack slightly using a chisel or masonry tool.
• Step 2: Clean the crack to remove any debris.
• Step 3: Apply a masonry crack filler or cement-based filler to the crack.
• Step 4: Smooth the filler with a trowel and allow it to dry.
• Step 5: Repaint or refinish the repaired area if needed.

If the stair-step crack grows over time, or if you notice significant foundation shifting, it’s crucial to seek professional help to avoid further damage.

When to Call a Professional

While many cracks can be fixed with a DIY approach, some cracks may be indicative of deeper structural issues that require professional attention. If you encounter any of the following signs, it’s time to contact an expert:

• Cracks wider than 3mm or those that are growing in size.
• Horizontal cracks that may indicate foundation movement.
• Stair-step cracks in brick or concrete walls.
• Cracks accompanied by doors or windows that no longer open or close properly.
• Multiple cracks appearing in different parts of your home.

Need Professional Help? Contact 9reno.com

If you’re dealing with significant wall cracks that are beyond DIY repair, it’s time to consult a professional. At 9reno.com, we offer expert wall crack repair services, ensuring your home remains safe and structurally sound. Don’t wait for minor cracks to turn into major problems—contact 9reno.com today for a thorough assessment and repair solution tailored to your needs!

Further reading :

• House Painting
• Top 5 Myths About Wall Crack Lines: What Homeowners Should Know
• Flooring Handyman Repair Near Me: Common Flooring Issues and Repair Solutions in Singapore