How to fix crack in Gyprock ceiling?

Question

Any tips on how to fix this crack in the ceiling?

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @HReno,

A plasterer would be your best option.

Alternatively, a skilled handy person should also be able to assist.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

HReno · Answer

Thanks Jacob! Yeah, we had insulation installed and the installers dropped a vacuum on the ceiling, which has made the crack. Are you able to advise which tradie would be able to fix this? Might be out of my wheelhouse

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @HReno,

This looks to me like damage caused by dropping something or accidentally stepping on the top of the plasterboard while in the ceiling cavity. Is that correct?

I ask, because if it is from an impact, I don't think it is really something to worry too much about, but if it appeared without any obvious reason, it might be an indication of movement, which would make me inclined to recommend you have it checked out by a professional to ensure you aren't dealing with structural movement.

Assuming it is just an impact related issue, there are two approaches I'd consider.

The first, is to cut out the damaged section of plasterboard, install some timber blocking around the cut out section of plasterboard, then screw in a new piece of plasterboard. You can then tape the seams, plaster, sand, prime and paint. If you were to do this, you can use

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/repairing/how-to-repair-a-large-hole-in-plasterboard

as guide for this process.

The other approach would be to stabilise the crack by adding timbers behind the plasterboard, then adding a number of plasterboard screws along the crack. This would help to stop any movement and reinforce things before proceeding with the repair. You could then v-groove the crack to open it up a bit and clean up any jagged edges using a utility knife, ensuring you wear protective equipment such as gloves and long protective clothing while doing so, then fill prefill the v-groove, tape and plaster over the crack.

This approach would be less intrusive, but it would require you to go into the ceiling cavity to attach timber backing for the crack. If you'd like to give this a try, let me know and I can certainly assist further.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob