How to Fix Cracks in Paint

Cracks on painted interior walls are commonly referred to as stress cracks. These cracks often occur as a result of gradual shifting and settling of a building over time. Seasonal weather changes may also play a role in the development of the unsightly cracks, but inevitable ground movement beneath a home is usually the cause. A quick patch-and-paint job over a crack is usually only a temporary fix. Permanently repairing cracks in paint is easy using the right method.

Fiberglass drywall tape
Scissors
Drywall taping compound
Water
Mud pan
6-inch taping knife
Sanding block
Primer
Paint

Instructions

- 1
  Hold a roll of fiberglass drywall tape against the crack. Stick the tape on one end of the crack and unravel it to the approximate length of the crack.
- 2
  Cut off the fiberglass tape from the connected roll using scissors. Rub your fingers over the entire length of the tape to smooth it out and secure adhesion to the drywall.
- 3
  Mix drywall taping compound and water in a mud pan according to the mixing directions on the product label. Mix the compound using a 6-inch taping knife until the compound appears creamy without chunks or leftover powder.
- 4
  Scoop the compound out of the mud pan, using the taping knife. Starting on one end of the taped crack, apply the drywall compound over the tape. Completely cover the tape with a thin layer, filling in the square holes within the tape. Allow the first coat to dry.
- 5
  Lightly sand the dried coat of drywall compound using a sanding block or a piece of sandpaper. Only lightly sand the compound to remove noticeable bumps and heavy ridges on the surface. Do not sand forcefully in the middle of the tape.
- 6
  Mix a second batch of drywall compound and apply the compound over the entire length of the tape again. Leave heavier compound in the middle portion of the tape and keep the outer edges of the patch thin and smooth by removing excess compound with the taping knife. Allow the second coat to dry.
- 7
  Sand the dried compound once again, applying pressure to smooth out edges and remove heavy compound layers. Inspect the surface and apply a lighter third coat if the tape is visible to the naked eye. Sand between coats.
- 8
  Prime the area you repaired. When dry, finish with two coats of paint that match the rest of the surface.

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