What Do Vertical Cracks in a Ceiling Joist Mean?

Significance

• Ceiling joists play a critical function in the support of your home. The main role of the joists is to tie and bring the walls of a room together. Another key function of a ceiling joist is to support the ceiling and provide stability. Ceiling joists run parallel from one wall to the other, creating beams that ultimately connect to the wall plate. If you notice vertical cracks or separation in any of these beams, it could be an indication of either natural expanding and settling, or something more serious such as a weak spot in the wall. Because the crack indicates a structural issue, it is important to ensure that you fix it properly to prevent collapse or structural damage to your home.

Causes

• Vertical cracks in the ceiling joist can have several causes. If you have a door or window in your wall, it could be causing added weight on your joist. The crack could be from a combination of factors, including a heavy door or window, improperly framed door or window, or misuse of a door or window by slamming, breaking or repeated bumping into the wall. Water damage that has occurred, resulting in bowing of material and wood, can also cause vertical cracking and excessive wear on a ceiling joist. Poor structural design and inadequate installation methods can also cause cracking and overall damage to your joists and the surrounding framing.

Solution

• Unless you are a licensed contractor or expert builder, it is important to seek a reliable and sound inspection. A licensed inspector will be able to determine the cause of the vertical cracks in the ceiling joists, any damage elsewhere in your home and the most effective way to resolve the issue. In most cases, the joist will have to be repaired or replaced. Reinforcements in other areas of the wall and ceiling might help prevent further damage.

Precaution

• Failure to fix a crack in your ceiling joist could lead to severe structural damage in your home. Because the ceiling joist is part of what holds up your ceiling and walls, if weakened, the ceiling could collapse. Never try to repair or remove a joist or supporting beam without reinforcing the ceiling and walls. Failure to do so could result in serious harm.