Wall and Ceiling Problems

Walls and Ceilings

Wall height and spacing give homes their comfort feeling of openness or cramped. Walls give the home structural support and should not be removed without a qualified opinion. Walls are generally spaced at 16 or 24 inch centers. Nice to know when trying to hang a picture. When attaching/hanging an item to a wall or ceiling always try to penetrate a stud or ceiling joist/rafter at least one inch with a screw for safety against falling and possibly causing injury or damage.

Problem: Cracks. The majority are cosmetic and are related to incidental movement of the structure. This includes shrinkage and expansion of building materials behind the finishes. Most cracks are cosmetic.

Problem: Damage. Mechanical damage is typically the result of impact. This is often furniture being pushed against walls, although it can be several other things. Mechanical damage is usually localized and calls for minor repair.

Problem: Drywall/Plaster may be crumbly have nail pops and/or visual joints. Nail pops in new construction are a common result of shrinkage of wood framing members. Poor joints in drywall are an original installation issue. Crumbly drywall/plaster is quite often from moisture. These are cosmetic issues and easily corrected.

Problem: Trim problems. Loose or missing trim can allow air leakage into building components which may result in condensation damage. Trim should be provided around all exterior doors, windows and wall penetrations.

Problem: Water damage to walls can be caused by roof, plumbing, window, skylight or door leaks (especially sliding glass doors) or condensation. There may also be damage to the structure behind or it may simply be cosmetic.