How to fix cracked plasterboard ceiling near attic manhole?

carmen5144

hi,

Any idea how to fix this ? Is it DIY-able ?

Thank you!

MitchellMc

Hi @carmen5144,

Whether this is DIY-able really comes down to your experience with plasterboard repairs. The crack could simply be filled and repainted, but that would only disguise the problem and there's a reasonable chance it would crack again if the underlying cause isn't addressed.

For a more permanent repair, you'd typically need to:

• Remove the damaged/cracked section of plasterboard.
• Inspect the ceiling framing around the manhole and determine why the joint has moved.
• Install additional timber blocking or support if the plasterboard edges aren't adequately supported.
• Cut and install a new section of plasterboard.
• Screw the new plasterboard securely to the framing.
• Tape and apply joint compound to the joins over several coats.
• Sand the repair smooth.
• Prime and repaint the ceiling.
• Repair or replace the manhole trim as required.

So, it's certainly achievable as a DIY project, but it's a reasonably involved plasterboard repair rather than simply filling the visible crack.

Before starting, I'd also take a look through the manhole and see whether you can identify what's directly above the cracked area. A photo of the framing from inside the roof space would be helpful, as it might give us a better idea of why the cracking has occurred.

Please let me knw if you have any questions.

Mitchell