Seeing a crack in the ceiling will stop you in your tracks. It’s one of those things that gets noticed the moment you look up—and once you see it, you can’t ignore it. The good news is that most ceiling cracks aren’t as scary as they seem. Many are easy to fix with the right tools and a little time.
In this guide, we’ll go through what causes those cracks, if it’s something serious, and how to fix it yourself. Whether you’re dealing with cracks in plasterboard ceiling or older plaster, we’ll break it all down step by step
Why Do Cracks Appear In Ceilings?
Ceiling cracks show up for all sorts of reasons. Some are harmless, others need a second look.
Here are the most common causes:
- House movement: All houses move slightly over time. This can pull at the ceiling and leave fine cracks behind.
- Temperature changes: Hot and cold air cause materials to expand and shrink. Over time, that movement can cause cracking.
- Water damage: A leak from a roof or pipe can weaken the ceiling and cause it to crack or sag.
- Poor workmanship: If a ceiling wasn’t installed or repaired properly before, cracks will appear again.
- Age: Older ceilings, especially those made of plaster, are more likely to crack.
Cracks In Ceiling Plaster: What To Know
If you have an old style plaster ceiling, small cracks are normal. Plaster is strong but not flexible, so when the house moves – even a little – it can crack.
You may see:
- Hairline cracks: Thin and not a big deal.
- Spiderweb cracks: A bunch of tiny cracks in one spot. Usually from drying out or minor stress.
- Wider cracks: These need more attention, especially if they keep growing.
Plaster is different from plasterboard (drywall). It cracks more easily and can even fall in chunks if damaged. If you see wide or deep cracks, it’s best to act sooner rather than later.
Cracks In Walls And Ceilings: When To Worry
Not all cracks are bad, but some signs shouldn’t be ignored. Here’s what to look out for:
- Cracks that are over 5mm wide
- Diagonal cracks near doors and windows
- Stains or damp marks could be water damage
- Bulging or sagging ceilings
- Cracks that keep coming back after repairs
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to call in a professional. A builder or structural expert can take a closer look and tell you what’s really going on.
Tools You’ll Need To Fix The Crack
Before you start, make sure you have the basics:
- A sturdy ladder
- Utility knife or scraper
- Joint compound or filler
- Mesh tape (for bigger cracks)
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Primer and ceiling paint
- Safety mask and glasses
Now you have your tools, you can start fixing a crack in the ceiling plaster or drywall.
Repairing Cracks in the Ceiling: Step-by-Step
Whether you’re working with cracks in plasterboard ceiling or old plaster, the process is the same. Just take your time and don’t rush.
1. Get Ready
Get rid of loose plaster or peeling paint. Use a utility knife to open the crack a little if it’s super thin. This helps the filler stick better. Wipe away any dust.
2. Add Mesh Tape (If Needed)
For deeper or longer cracks, press mesh tape over the gap. It adds strength and stops the crack from coming back.
3. Apply The Filler
Spread the filler over the crack with a putty knife. Press it in well. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rough—you’ll smooth it out later.
4. Let It Dry And Sand It Smooth
Give it time to dry fully. Then sand the area until it feels flat and even with the rest of the ceiling. If needed, apply another thin coat of filler and repeat.
5. Prime And Paint
Use a primer over the repaired spot. This helps the paint go on evenly. Then paint the whole ceiling for a smooth finish.
And that’s it, you now know how to fill cracks in ceiling and it looks good as new.
Preventing Cracks From Coming Back
Once you repair a crack in the ceiling, do these few simple things to stop it from coming back:
- Keep your home’s humidity level steady
- Fix roof leaks or plumbing issues quickly
- Use flexible filler if your home shifts with the seasons
- Don’t paint new ceilings too soon—give them time to settle
These small steps can prevent the same crack from showing up again a few months later.
Final Thoughts
A crack in the ceiling looks bad, but in most cases, it’s not serious. With a few tools and some time, you can do it yourself and have the ceiling looking clean again.
Whether you’re dealing with hairline cracks, cracks in plasterboard ceiling or something deeper, the key is to act early. Fill it, smooth it and paint over it—and your ceiling’s back to looking fresh. Just in case.
