Paint Cracks: What Causes Them and How to Fix Them
Noticed paint cracks on your walls or ceiling lately? You’re not alone. Whether you're in a new build or an older home, paint cracking can be both frustrating and unsightly. These cracks can range from minor hairlines to deep splits that reveal drywall underneath—and they often leave homeowners wondering, "Why is my wall cracking?"
At Express Painting & Remodeling, we believe every
great finish starts with proper prep and the right materials. So today, we’re diving deep into the world of paint cracks—what causes them, what they mean, and what you can do to fix or prevent them. Let’s break it down.
Why Is My Wall Paint Cracking?
Paint is meant to enhance and protect your walls, but when it starts to crack, it’s often a sign that something went wrong—either during application or within the wall itself. If you’re asking, “Why is my wall paint cracking?” here are the most common culprits:
1. Poor Surface Preparation
Cracked paint frequently stems from inadequate surface prep. If dirt, dust, grease, or old flaking paint isn't removed before painting, the new layer won’t adhere properly. Over time, this weak bond leads to cracking and peeling.
2. Incompatible Paint Layers
If you’ve painted latex over oil-based paint without proper priming—or used low-quality paint that doesn’t suit the surface—you’re likely to see cracks in paint walls sooner than expected.
3. Humidity and Temperature Fluctuations
Central Florida is known for its humid climate, and that can wreak havoc on interior and exterior walls. High moisture levels can cause your walls or ceiling to expand and contract, resulting in cracks in both paint and the underlying drywall.
4. Structural Shifting or Settling
Cracks can be more than just cosmetic. Sometimes, they’re signs of movement in the building's structure. If your home is settling or shifting—especially around windows, doors, or corners—you might see diagonal or vertical cracks form along with cracked paint.
5. Excessive Paint Buildup or Overbrushing
Applying too many coats of paint or overworking the surface with a brush can also cause mud cracking in paint, which resembles the texture of dried mud—uneven and brittle.
Understanding the Types of Paint Cracks
Not all cracks are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to identifying what kind of crack you’re dealing with:
Hairline Cracks: These fine lines may appear in the top layer of paint and usually result from minor surface issues. They’re often cosmetic but can worsen over time.
- Alligator Cracks: Named for their resemblance to alligator skin, these are wide, interlocking cracks that indicate poor adhesion and drying issues.
- Mud Cracking: These resemble dried riverbeds and typically happen when thick paint dries too quickly. It’s a common sign of over-application.
- Deep Structural Cracks: If you can see through the paint to the drywall—or worse, if the wall itself is cracked—it could point to deeper structural concerns.
Each type of crack tells a different story, and knowing what you’re looking at helps determine whether DIY touch-ups are sufficient or if it’s time to call in the pros.
Why Is My Wall Cracking? It’s Not Always the Paint
If you're dealing with cracks in paint, it's easy to blame the paint itself. But sometimes the underlying issue is with the wall, not just the finish.
Here are some underlying causes that go beyond poor painting technique:
Foundation Settling
Over time, all homes settle slightly. But if the settling is uneven or excessive, it can cause horizontal or stair-step cracks that run through drywall, plaster, and paint.
Moisture Intrusion
Water damage behind walls—from a roof leak, plumbing issue, or window seepage—can weaken the surface and lead to cracked wall painting.
Poor Drywall Installation
If joint compound wasn’t applied or sanded properly during construction, you may see cracks in paint walls shortly after moving in. These usually appear along seams or corners.
How to Fix Paint Cracks the Right Way
You might be tempted to slap on another coat of paint and hope for the best, but treating the surface without addressing the root cause means the problem will likely come back. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tackling paint cracks properly:
1. Identify the Cause
Before doing any repairs, figure out what’s behind the cracks. Is it just cosmetic? Or is there a deeper issue like moisture or structural shifting?
2. Clean and Sand the Area
Remove any loose or flaking paint with a putty knife or sanding block. Clean the surface thoroughly to eliminate dust or debris.
3. Repair the Crack
Use joint compound or spackling paste to fill the crack. Let it dry completely, then sand it smooth.
4. Prime the Area
Applying a quality primer is essential—especially if you’re painting over a repaired area or switching between different paint types.
5. Repaint With Quality Paint
Choose a high-quality paint suited for your wall material and climate. Apply in thin, even coats and avoid over-brushing.
Preventing Future Paint Cracks
Once you’ve fixed existing issues, it’s time to prevent them from happening again. Here’s how:
Use the Right Paint for the Job: Latex paints are more flexible and durable than oil-based options, making them ideal for Florida’s humidity.
- Control Humidity: Run a dehumidifier or air conditioner during muggy months to keep moisture out of your walls.
- Seal Leaks Promptly: Keep an eye on your roof, gutters, and plumbing. Catching small leaks early prevents water from damaging your walls and paint.
- Hire a Professional: When in doubt, trust a licensed contractor to do the job right the first time. At Express Painting & Remodeling, we make sure every surface is prepped, primed, and painted with precision.
Mud Cracking in Paint: What to Watch Out For
We get a lot of questions about mud cracking in paint, especially from homeowners who recently completed DIY projects. Mud cracking often results from:
- Applying thick layers of paint too quickly
- Using low-quality or old paint
- Skipping primer on porous surfaces
- Painting in high heat or humidity
The result is a textured, uneven finish that looks cracked even when dry. Fixing it often involves sanding down the affected area and repainting from scratch—so prevention is key.
When to Call a Professional
Some paint cracks are an easy fix. Others? Not so much. If you see any of the following, it’s a good idea to contact a professional contractor:
- Recurring cracks that reappear after repairs
- Wide or deep cracks that reveal drywall or plaster
- Signs of water damage, mold, or bubbling paint
- Structural shifts such as uneven floors or sticking doors
At Express Painting & Remodeling, we’ve seen—and fixed—it all. Whether your issue is cosmetic or structural, we can diagnose the cause and provide long-term solutions that not only improve your home’s appearance but also protect its value.
Say Goodbye to Cracked Wall Painting for Good
Dealing with cracks in paint can feel overwhelming, especially if they keep coming back. But with the right approach, tools, and expertise, your walls can look smooth, clean, and polished again. Understanding the causes behind paint cracks is the first step—and now that you’re informed, you’re already ahead of the game.
Need help restoring your cracked walls or tackling a larger painting project?
Contact Express Painting & Remodeling today for a free estimate. Our team brings years of experience in drywall repair, surface prep, and professional painting—so you can trust that your walls are in the right hands.
Let’s get your space looking flawless again.