Cracked walls? Fix them with these tips to restore your home’s charm

With the festive season at the corner, it's time to ensure your home looks its finest. However, no matter your decoration, cracks around your home may dampen the look and the festive spirit.  

Hairline cracks in your walls might seem minor, but they can lead to bigger issues if not properly addressed. While these cracks often do not indicate serious structural problems like cracked walls, they can compromise your home's appearance and lead to more significant damage if ignored over time. Waterproofing is an effective method for managing these hairline cracks. It helps prevent water from seeping through, reducing the risk of mould growth and further deterioration. 
 

Common causes of cracked walls and dampness 
 

There are several reasons for cracks in walls. However, the following factors contribute the most to such cracks across your home. 

Moisture and water damage 

Fluctuations in moisture levels lead to the expansion or contraction of building materials.  That’s why excessive water infiltration or drying causes cracks in home walls.  
 

Chemical reactions 

Chemical reactions can occur when moisture interacts with the materials in the wall, like cement or plaster. Over time, these reactions can weaken the wall structure. This causes the materials to break down and lead to the formation of cracks. 
 

Increased activity 

Increased foot traffic can stress walls during festival gatherings, escalating existing cracks. 
 

Moisture from cooking

Increased cooking and baking during festive periods can raise humidity levels in the home, impacting walls and potentially increasing the chances of moisture-related cracks. 
 

Fixes and tips to repair a cracked wall 
 

Repairing a cracked wall requires a systematic approach to ensure a structurally sound waterproofing solution. Follow these steps to address wall cracks effectively:

Assessment of wall cracks

Know that not all cracks can be treated with waterproofing solutions. For instance, vertical cracks in walls that run from the top to the bottom need more serious intervention because they cause structural damage.  

On the other hand, hairline cracks in walls, which are very thin and just a few millimetres wide, can be prevented with waterproofing solutions. But need to be repaired, as they can escalate into major problems.  
 

Surface preparation

The area around the cracked wall should be cleaned by removing any loose paint, debris, or other contaminants. This can be done with the help of a scraper or wire brush. It ensures a clean and stable surface before applying the repair materials. 
 

Apply bonding agent

A bonding agent or primer is necessary to have a prepared wall surface. This ensures proper adhesion between the repair material and the cracked wall. 
 

Choice of repair material

It is recommended to choose an appropriate material that suits your home, the area, its climate, and the severity of damage. For instance, you may need a good-quality crack filler to seal small cracks and gaps in your walls. 

It’s recommended to hire certified contractors for these tasks. Experts have the right knowledge, tools, and products, resulting in effective waterproofing without safety hazards.  
 

Fixing your cracked wall with a waterproofing solution 
 

Waterproofing is essential before the festive season to prevent seasonal moisture and humidity damage. This proactive approach ensures your home stays in top condition, safeguarding against both aesthetic and costly problems and keeping your space inviting for celebrations. 

A cracked wall must be prioritised to ensure that the damages don’t escalate. Consider waterproofing solutions from Dr Fixit for long-lasting protection and durability of your walls. Their efficient products ensure your beautifully textured walls stay free of any damage. 

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