Cracks in ceilings can be signs of normal settling, or they can point to deeper structural problems. The key is knowing which ones matter and which don’t.

We check ceiling cracks to see if they’re cosmetic or linked to movement in the foundation or framing. If a crack keeps growing or shows up with other warning signs, it may be time to take a closer look.

What Causes Cracks in Ceilings?

Ceiling cracks can show up for many reasons. Some are harmless, but others are tied to structural changes in the home.

Here are some common causes of ceiling cracks:

• Settling of the home: All homes settle over time. This can cause small cracks that don’t mean much.
• Shifting foundation walls: If your home’s foundation starts to move, it can pull on the structure and create bigger cracks.
• Moisture or leaks: Water damage from the roof or plumbing can weaken the ceiling and cause it to crack or sag.
• Framing issues: If there’s not enough support under the ceiling joists or beams, the structure can begin to droop and crack.

Pro Tip: If you see a ceiling crack forming a diagonal line or stretching across a long area, it’s worth getting a professional look.

Signs the Crack May Be Structural

Not all cracks mean your home is in danger. But there are signs that tell us the issue could be tied to the structure itself.

• The crack keeps growing over time
• You see other signs, like sticking doors or uneven floors
• Cracks appear in both the ceiling and the walls, especially at corners
• Cracks run in a zigzag or stair-step pattern
• You’ve lived in the home a long time, and the crack is new or getting worse

We often hear homeowners ask, “Is my house going to fall in?” We’ve seen some bad ceiling cracks, but we’ve never seen a home fall from one. Most of the time, if you catch it early, it can be fixed before it gets worse.

Need expert help with ceiling or foundation issues? Contact Olson for a free consultation today.

How We Inspect Cracks in Ceilings

We start by looking at the size, shape, and history of the crack. Then we check other signs like door movement, wall alignment, and floor level.

If we believe the framing or foundation has shifted, we’ll take a closer look at:

• Crawl space or basement walls
• Floor joists and supports
• Roof trusses, if accessible
• Overall movement in the structure

From there, we decide if structural repairs are needed.

Fixing Structural Cracks in Ceilings

Once we confirm the problem, we can take steps to fix it and stop it from coming back. Our repair methods include:

• Installing piers under the foundation to stabilize shifting soil
• Bracing basement or crawl space walls that have bowed or moved
• Adding support beams under sagging framing
• Waiting a few weeks after the repair before patching the drywall, to allow the home to settle again

Key Takeaway: Always wait at least 30–60 days after major repairs before patching Sheetrock. This allows the home to stabilize and helps avoid repeat cracks.

Final Thoughts

Ceiling cracks may not always mean serious trouble, but they’re worth checking out, especially if they’re spreading or paired with other issues. We help homeowners get peace of mind by looking beyond the surface and making sure the home’s structure is safe.

Call Olson Foundation Repair to schedule an inspection or ask questions about cracks in ceilings. We’re here to help protect your home.