What is it?
Cracks appearing in the ceiling, ranging from fine hairlines to large gaps.
What does it look like?
[Insert Photos] Lines across the ceiling, often following the edges of plasterboard sheets or radiating from corners.
Common causes
1. Plasterboard joint movement
2. Drying out of timber joists
3. Heavy loads in the room above
4. Structural movement
How serious is it?
Rating: Low Concern. Most ceiling cracks are cosmetic. However, if the ceiling is sagging or the crack is wide, it could be a structural or safety issue.
How to tell which cause you have
Is the crack straight? It’s likely a plasterboard joint. Is the ceiling dipping? This is a serious structural issue.
What should you do next?
If cosmetic, rake out and fill. If sagging, stay out of the room and call a builder immediately.
Typical repair options
Scrim tape and jointing compound, or replacing plasterboard sections.
Typical repair costs (UK)
£100 – £800.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do I have cracks in my ceiling? Usually timber movement.
2. Can a heavy bath cause cracks? Yes, due to weight.
3. Is it safe to sleep under a cracked ceiling? Usually, unless it sags.
4. Do new houses get ceiling cracks? Yes, very commonly.
5. How do I stop them coming back? Use flexible fillers or tape joints.