To fix wall cracks permanently, you must first address any underlying structural movement, then reinforce the wall to prevent the crack from reappearing. Simply applying spackle directly over a crack will usually result in it returning.
How to fix cracks in walls?
Filling cracks in walls is a straightforward DIY project. The process involves cleaning out the crack, securing it with joint compound or spackle, reinforcing if necessary, and sanding before painting.
Toupret Fibacryl is a specialist flexible filler, which is suitable for filling and repairing movement cracks, problem cracks, and moving cracks on internal and external projects.
For minor cracks in drywall or plaster, use a flexible, paintable acrylic or painters caulk. For deeper or wider cracks, use joint compound (drywall mud) combined with joint tape to prevent the crack from returning. For concrete or masonry walls, use a specialized masonry patching compound.
Yes, you can paint over hairline cracks, but doing so without proper preparation will only highlight the crack and it will eventually reappear. For a lasting finish, you must stabilize, fill, and sand the crack before painting.
Home insurance generally only covers cracks in walls if they are caused by a sudden, unexpected disaster (like a fire, severe storm, or explosion) or covered structural events like subsidence. If the cracks are due to routine wear and tear, foundation settling, or poor maintenance, you will likely have to pay out of pocket.
Epoxy-based fillers stand out for their strong bond and durability, making them one of the best concrete crack filler options.
Simple Steps to Keep Wall Cracks from Coming Back
Typically, hot rubberized crack fillers have a longer lifespan than cold pour crack fillers. Hot pour crack fillers can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years or more, while cold pour crack fillers may last 1 to 2 years. Proper maintenance, such as sealcoating, can also extend the lifespan of crack fillers.
Paint primers that fill cracks are high-build, elastomeric, or binding primers. They are designed to expand and contract, smoothing out hairline cracks and uneven surfaces while permanently sealing porous damage.
Depending on your space and goals, excellent drywall alternatives include PVC panels (for fast, mud-free installation), wood planks or shiplap, plywood/OSB (durable for garages), cork (adds warmth/acoustics), or veneer plaster (traditional, smooth look).
Small cracks (such as hairline ones) can usually be filled with a flexible filler. Apply with a filling knife, smooth over, and once dry, sand it flat. Larger cracks may need a little extra attention. Widen them slightly with a scraper to ensure the filler adheres properly, then fill, allow to dry, and sand smooth.
Solution: The best expansion joints to prevent drywall cracks are made of vinyl — the 093V Expansion Joint and its less noticeable counterpart, Hideaway Expansion Joint — which resists denting and remains permanently flexible, limiting wear-and-tear and the need for repairs.
Simply enlarge the cracks slightly using a scraper (fillers don't work well in hairline cracks), dust off and fill with a suitable product such as Polycell Trade Interior filler. Dampen the hole or crack with water - this will help the filler to bond.
Here are a few steps to follow when repairing a plaster wall:
Stopping a crack from spreading depends on the material, but the most effective universal approach is to fill the void to prevent flex and relieve tension at the crack's tip. For immediate relief, cover the crack with clear tape to keep out debris, avoid temperature shocks, and use these targeted fixes based on the item:
Hardware stores sell numerous do-it-yourself crack-repair kits, typically epoxy or polyurethane-based. They seem cost-effective, but the results often don't last. However, without the right equipment, you can't properly inject materials deep into the wall where the crack originates.
Magic Crack Filler is a dry, granulated powder or fine cementitious dust used to easily and cleanly repair cracks in concrete, masonry, and asphalt. It works as a no-mix, do-it-yourself solution—you simply sweep or squeeze the powder into the crack, mist it with water, and let it harden into a rubbery, durable seal.
The best filler for deep cracks depends on the material and location. For deep interior plaster or drywall cracks, lightweight fillers like Everbuild Deep Gap Filler or Polycell Deep Gap Polyfilla are ideal, as they fill deep holes (up to 50 mm) in one go without sagging or shrinking.
Coca-Cola does three main things to concrete: it slows down the curing process (acts as a retarder), etches the surface to expose decorative aggregate, and removes tough stains. This happens because of the soda's high sugar content and phosphoric acid.
Wall cracks are serious if they are wider than 5 mm (∼14 inch), grow over time, or appear horizontally or in a diagonal "stair-step" pattern. These patterns often indicate severe foundation shifting, structural pressure, or water damage, especially when paired with sticking doors or windows.
Avoid making guesses or unsupported statements about what caused the damage to your property. Speculating can lead to inaccuracies in the adjuster's report, potentially affecting your claim.
Most homeowners insurance policies cover foundation repair as long as the damage is due to a covered peril. Issues such as neglect or lack of maintenance can result in foundation issues that won't be covered, so it's important to prevent damage before it starts.