How to Address Cracked Drywall Before Painting
Home Owners’ Guides On Interior Painting
How to Address Cracked Drywall Before Painting – A Guide for Edmonton Homeowners
Cracked drywall is more than just an eyesore—it’s a sign that your walls need proper attention before any painting can begin. In Edmonton, where seasonal changes and shifting temperatures are part of the climate, drywall cracks are a common issue faced by many homeowners. At Leonard’s Painting Edmonton, we believe that a quality paint job starts long before the first coat goes on. It begins with preparation—and that means fixing drywall the right way.
Here’s how our team professionally repairs cracked drywall to ensure a smooth, durable finish that stands the test of time.
1. Inspecting the Crack: Surface Issue or Structural Concern?
Not all cracks are created equal. The first step is assessing whether the crack is purely cosmetic or the result of deeper movement in the wall or framing. Hairline cracks near doors, windows, or ceilings are often caused by normal settling or minor shifts, especially in older homes or homes exposed to Alberta’s freeze-thaw cycles. However, larger or recurring cracks may require further inspection to rule out structural concerns before cosmetic repairs can begin.
2. Cleaning the Area for Proper Adhesion
Dust, debris, and flaking paint around the crack must be removed. We begin by gently scraping the area and cleaning it thoroughly. A clean surface ensures that the joint compound and tape will bond securely, preventing the crack from reappearing under the paint.
3. Taping the Crack: Reinforcing the Repair
We apply either paper or fiberglass mesh tape over the crack, depending on the location and severity. This reinforcement prevents future movement from reopening the seam and provides a strong base for joint compound application.
4. Applying Joint Compound: Building a Seamless Surface
Next, we layer joint compound over the tape in multiple thin coats, allowing proper drying time between each pass. We feather the edges carefully to ensure that the repair blends seamlessly into the surrounding wall. This stage requires skill and attention to detail—an uneven patch will always show through once painted.
5. Sanding and Priming: Creating the Perfect Canvas
Once the compound is completely dry, we sand it down to a smooth finish. Then, we apply a quality primer to seal the surface. This prevents flashing (uneven paint sheen) and ensures the final coat adheres evenly.
6. Painting: The Final Touch
Only after the surface is fully prepped do we begin painting. Using premium-grade paints designed for Edmonton’s interior conditions, we deliver a finish that not only looks professional but lasts for years to come.
Why Preparation Matters
Many homeowners make the mistake of painting over cracks without properly addressing the cause. This shortcut may save time in the short term, but the cracks almost always return—sometimes within months. At Leonard’s Painting Edmonton, we take a different approach: one that prioritizes long-term results through careful preparation and skilled craftsmanship.