The biggest challenge when it comes to maintaining your home is cracking drywalls. The moisture in the air condenses on your drywall, causing it to crack. One of the most common reasons for this happening is bad and cold weather.

Drywall needs to expand and contract throughout the year. It happens naturally because there are lots of different types of drywall, each with different properties. For instance, installing a thermal-rated glazing system may require that the drywall be expanded or contracted over time, depending on how long it is exposed to cold or warm conditions.

How to Avoid Drywall Cracking

Drywall is a relatively inexpensive material to use when building homes. It is fairly easy to install, and it is used in all types of weather conditions. Unfortunately, if not installed properly, drywall can crack during the winter. When this happens, the loss of wall surface area often leads to damage, which can cause mold growth and water intrusion through cracks in the wall.

Eliminating this problem is hard because the moisture will remain and will slowly make its way through the walls over time. However, using necessary steps to minimize the damage is also possible. 

Structural Check Home Before Winter Comes To Avoid Drywall Cracking

Walk outside your house check for the following:

  • Check stucco if cracks are visible
  • Check if the roof sags or is bowed
  • Check for bowing walls
  • Look for sagging ceiling
  • Check drywalls if there are small visible cracks

What Causes Cracks on Drywall

The best way to find out what is causing drywall to crack is to understand how the house is built. With this knowledge, repair or replacement is possible.

Perfect architecture doesn’t mean there are no cracks on drywall. It is necessary to pay particular attention to them. If they are small, repairing them is possible. But if they are in the larger areas of the wall, special tools are needed or even professional help to remove them.

The cracks on your drywall are more likely caused by the sudden changes in the air’s moisture. 

High levels of humidity can cause cracks on drywall. The moisture accumulation in the studs behind it can cause the drywall to crack. There are several ways to prevent this, but using a water-resistant adhesive for all your drywall screws is the simplest way.

Additionally, drywall’s toughness depends upon its sheathing. When the drywall is exposed to cold weather, the sheathing becomes brittle and can form cracks. 

It can lead to damage and even collapse of your drywall. When a crack develops, a design engineer must find a way to prevent or mitigate the damage if possible.

Lastly, always remember that working on drywall can be dangerous. Drywall can crack without warning and may result in injury or even death. Be extra careful when working with all the visible damages so that no one will get hurt.

Building Framing Shrinkage

Wood shrinkage is a major issue in the building industry. The moisture content of wood can cause drywall cracking, structural issues, and even health problems. Whether in a new house or an old house.

It is important to use a quality contractor for work that involves drywall and other materials expertise. Regular checking of walls, ceilings, and other home components is essential to ensure structural integrity and safety for all the dwellers in your home.

Frost Heave

Ensure your home is well insulated to avoid frost heave. Another way to prevent this is to add the right amount of insulation under your structure and ensure that it’s properly drained. Also, prevent water from getting underneath your home by adding ductwork, which will ensure that the water doesn’t come into contact with the walls.

If a frost heave has developed, there is a simple solution. Simply make sure water drains away from the affected area, not towards it.

Many newer drywall products are more water-resistant and can stand winter. However, not all drywalls are created equally, and some do not meet minimum moisture requirements. This means that it is not only vulnerable to freezing and thawing but also breaking down.

Temperature, Humidity, and Leakage

Drywall and wood framing can be affected by humidity and temperature. Even small changes in the humidity or temperature will alter the wall thickness. To prevent drywall cracks, it’s crucial to keep your house dry and well-insulated.

When a wall is over 30 feet long, engineers recommend allowing for expansion joints between the wall and its foundation to prevent damage from further cooling.

Conclusion

Drywall crack is a major problem for many homeowners during winter. It can cause property damage, insurance claims and even lead to more serious problems like an injury. Not only the homeowner will suffer but also the residents of the area as well. That is why it is important ​​to have your home inspected or repaired. Consider hiring a professional to avoid unnecessary accidents.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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