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Step 40 - Ceiling Drywall Issues
How to Repair a Sagging Drywall Ceiling
Smaller cracks on ceilings can be easily repaired by using paper tape and joint compounds. However, if it happens that you have big cracks, the tendency is that the ceiling will sag on the center. The more joint compound you apply on it, the higher the chance of sagging. This also happens when you use inadequate nails and screws when you first repair the cracks. Ideally, you need to fasten the cracks with a screw prior to putting on joint compound. If you fail to do this, sagging will most likely happen.
There are many reasons why the ceiling will sag. It can be the result of poor installation, improper repair or even the changes of temperature or climate. Although replacing the entire drywall is tempting to do, just knowing how to repair a sagging drywall ceiling will probably do. How to repair a sagging drywall ceiling is not an easy task for people without experience, but with determination, it can be done.
Since the repair that you will be doing requires you to look up a lot, protecting your eyes from possible debris is necessary as a safety measure. It is also advisable to have a face mask so that you will not inhale the dusts. It will also protect your face from possible accident like nails or screw falling and hitting you.
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How to Repair a Sagging Drywall Ceiling
The first thing you need to do is to locate areas where the cracks are situated. Mark all the areas with cracks and areas that are sagging with the use of a pencil. Using an automatic driller, fasten these sags and cracks with a screw. It will also help to fasten all joints where the sags and cracks are close. You have to screw all the places that you marked. You have to be certain that all sagging area are fasten to the ceiling prior to applying the plaster.
Once all sagging and cracked areas are fastened already, apply joint compound on each and every screw. Let it stand alone for a while to completely dry. When it has all dried up, about 24 hours later, apply the second coating of joint compound. Be careful in applying the second coat as this is the final coat. Again, let it stand overnight to dry. Once dried up, you can start sanding it with a sand paper. Make sure that the area where you apply the joint compound does not have any rough edges. Also, remove any build up created from the joint compound that you use.
Once everything is smooth and even, you may start applying the plaster to make it smoother. This will also even out all surface of the ceiling. Applying a plaster is messy and risky as you may accidentally mess up your walls or flooring. The idea is to apply it carefully. If you are able to apply the plaster properly, you can be certain that your ceiling will look new without traces of any repair. Once it has completely dried up, you can proceed with painting your ceiling. This is how to repair a sagging drywall ceiling. It is not as easy as repairing cracks or patching holes but it is also not as difficulty as installing a new drywall.
The average homeowner can repair a sagging drywall ceiling. All you need is a plan of action, the proper materials and tools and patience to get the job done successfully.