Removing Cracks From Plaster Walls

Over time, movement in a house's foundation can have an affect on the plaster walls in the form of cracks. If you notice a crack in your plaster wall, it's crucial to address the problem right away before it gets worse and too out of control to handle without a professional. As soon as you notice the crack, there is a technique you can use to repair the crack and remove its appearance from the wall.

Putty knife
Joint compound
Wide taping knife
Self-adhesive fiberglass mesh drywall tape
Soft cloth
Fine sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Make a series of cross-hatched scratches over the crack on the plaster wall using a putty knife. This will create a surface that is easy for joint compound to bind to.
- 2
  Spread a thin but even layer of joint compound over the entire crack and the marks you made, using a wide taping knife to apply the product smoothly.
- 3
  Apply self-adhesive fiberglass mesh drywall tape directly over the wet crack. Allow the joint compound to dry.
- 4
  Apply a thick layer of joint compound over the self-adhesive fiberglass mesh drywall tape until it is completely covered. Allow the joint compound to dry.
- 5
  Sand the joint compound using fine sandpaper until the finish is nice and smooth. Do not sand so far that you disturb the self-adhesive fiberglass mesh drywall tape.
- 6
  Wipe away any dust with a soft cloth.
- 7
  Apply another layer of joint compound over the newly sanded area. Allow to dry and sand down again. Repeat once more.
- 8
  If you see that the walls are pitted or not smooth, use a very thin coat of compound on the area and sand.

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