The short answer
How to Inspect Your Walls
Start by checking the outside of your home for signs of water entry, like missing shingles, gaps in siding, or damaged flashing around windows. Inside, feel the walls around cracks for dampness or soft spots. A moisture meter can help, but even a simple touch can tell you if the drywall is compromised.
Look for patterns. A single vertical crack might indicate foundation settling, while a stair-step crack in brick or block could point to more serious structural movement. Cracks that run along the ceiling line often come from roof or truss movement. Take photos and note the date, because your insurance company may ask for documentation.
- Check for water stains or discoloration near the crack
- Feel for soft or spongy areas in the drywall
- Look for gaps around window and door frames
- Note if the crack is widening or has sharp edges
- Check the exterior for blocked gutters or downspouts
- Look for cracked or lifted soil near the foundation
When to Call a Professional
If the crack is wider than a hairline, if it keeps growing, or if you see signs of water damage like staining or mold, it's time to bring in a pro. A local water damage pro can assess the extent of the damage and identify the source of moisture. They can also tell you whether the crack is cosmetic or a sign of structural issues.
For cracks that appear after a storm, water intrusion is often the main culprit. Even if the crack looks small, moisture can hide behind the wall and lead to mold or rot. A professional inspection can uncover hidden problems and give you a clear picture of what needs repair.
- Crack wider than a quarter inch
- Crack that keeps growing over days
- Water stains or musty smell near the crack
- Crack that appears on both interior and exterior walls
- Crack that follows a stair-step pattern in masonry
- Crack that is accompanied by a sticking door or window
What Repair Work Usually Involves
The repair process depends on the cause. If the crack is only in the drywall, a pro may cut out the damaged section, replace it, and tape and texture the new surface. If the crack is due to foundation movement, the work could involve stabilizing the soil, installing drainage, or even underpinning the foundation. That kind of work takes longer and costs more.
For water-damaged walls, the pros will first dry out the affected area and address the source of moisture. They may remove wet insulation and drywall to prevent mold growth. After the area is dry, they rebuild the wall and finish it to match the surrounding surface. The goal is to restore the wall's integrity and appearance.
How to Prevent Future Cracks
Good drainage is your first defense. Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water at least a few feet away from the foundation. Grade the soil so it slopes away from the house. If you live in Mesa, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop the water quickly in a leak.
Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and utility entries with exterior caulk. Keep the roof in good repair and replace missing shingles promptly. After a storm, walk around your home and look for pooling water or new cracks. Catching small problems early helps avoid bigger repairs later.
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Call (480) 898-4279 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Are all cracks after a storm serious?
Not all cracks are serious. Hairline cracks in drywall can result from normal settling or minor moisture changes. However, wide or growing cracks, especially those with water stains, may indicate structural damage. If you are unsure, have a professional inspect the area to determine the cause and severity.
Can I fix a small crack myself?
You can patch a small hairline crack with joint compound and paint, but only if the underlying cause is not moisture. If the crack is near a window or door, or if you see any water damage, it is safer to call a pro. Hidden moisture can lead to mold and rot, so a proper inspection is worth it.
Will my insurance cover wall crack repairs?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Storm damage, such as a tree falling on the roof or wind-driven rain entering through a damaged roof, may be covered. But gradual settling or lack of maintenance usually is not. Check your policy and document the damage with photos and notes.