Repairing Stress Cracks In Attic Joist

Place a level on the bottom edge of the joist to determine the amount of sagging that has occurred.

Repairing stress cracks in attic joist.

Some cracks keep coming back no matter how well you repair them. Cut a sister joist the same length as the damaged joist. Therefore it is good to be able to recognize warning signs that a problem may exist. Use a c clamp on each end to hold the patching in position.

How to repair drywall cracks in ceiling climb into the attic and remove the insulation from between the ceiling joists directly above the damaged drywall. Drill a 3 16 inch diameter hole down into the 1x3 strapping and through the drywall ceiling. It works best on hairline cracks but it s worth a try on wider cracks too. Identify the cracked or sagging joist before it causes additional problems.

To repair a stress crack first cut out any loose drywall tape or joint compound with a utility knife or the corner of a taping knife. Occasionally ceiling cracks can be a yellow or red flag that there is serious or structural issue. Cut two 4 foot long 2x4 s to sister on each side of the joist. Are 2x4 s the appropriate material to sister on there.

Use construction adhesive and c clamps to sister 2x4 s in place. Remove any blocking or bridging above the sill or beam where the sister joist will go. Place one piece of patching material on each side of the joist. It forms an elastic film that stretches and contracts along with the crack.

This is usually enough time for a structure to finish settling. Wait at least six months to a year before repairing stress cracks in new construction. The joist is by my measurements 1 5 x 3 5. 6 drill pilot holes for the bolts on each side of the crack.

Place it next to the damaged joist with the crown side up. Usually most contractors and homeowners will view cracks a maintenance or cosmetic issue. If you have wider cracks or sections of loose plaster the lath system beneath the plaster is likely failing in which case the plaster should be removed and replaced with drywall. Attach the piece to the.