Why is my drywall cracking near the corners?

Drywall cracks near corners are typically caused by structural settling, temperature changes, or improper installation techniques - and in Ottawa's climate with significant seasonal temperature swings, this is a very common issue that most homeowners will encounter.

The most frequent culprit is house settling, which is completely normal, especially in Ottawa's clay soil conditions. As your home's foundation settles over time, it creates slight movements that show up as hairline cracks where drywall sheets meet at corners. This is particularly common in newer homes (first 2-3 years) or after major renovations when new weight has been added to the structure.

Temperature and humidity fluctuations also play a major role in our Ottawa climate. The dramatic swings from -30°C winters to +35°C summers cause building materials to expand and contract at different rates. Wood framing moves more than drywall, creating stress at corner joints where these materials meet. This is why you'll often notice cracks appearing or worsening after particularly harsh winters or during spring thaw.

Installation issues can also cause corner cracking. If the original drywall installation didn't use proper corner bead, insufficient joint compound, or if the installer rushed the taping process, these corners become weak points. Paper tape that wasn't properly embedded or mesh tape without adequate compound coverage will eventually fail under normal house movement.

Moisture problems shouldn't be overlooked, especially in Ottawa's humid summers. If there's a plumbing leak, poor ventilation, or basement moisture issues, the drywall compound can soften and crack. This is particularly common in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where humidity levels fluctuate significantly.

For minor hairline cracks (less than 1/8 inch), this is typically cosmetic and can be addressed with some mesh tape and joint compound during your next painting project. However, if you're seeing larger cracks, multiple cracks appearing quickly, or cracks that keep returning after repair, this could indicate a more serious structural issue that needs professional assessment.

When to call a professional: If cracks are wider than a quarter-inch, if they're accompanied by doors/windows that stick, or if you notice multiple cracks appearing throughout the house, it's time for a contractor to evaluate whether there's an underlying structural issue that needs addressing before any cosmetic repairs.

For a proper assessment of recurring or concerning cracks, contact Justyn Rook Contracting for a free consultation - we can determine whether you're dealing with normal settling or something that requires structural attention.