How To Repair Ceiling Cornice Cracks in Five Steps
Cornices are the decorative edges where your walls meet your ceiling. They add a touch of elegance to your home, but over time, they can develop cracks, leaving many homeowners wondering how to repair cracked cornice.
This can happen due to the natural settling of your house, temperature changes, or moisture. Knowing how to repair cracked cornice is important to keep your home looking good and to prevent further damage.
This guide will show you how to repair cracked cornices step-by-step, in a way that anyone can follow.
What You’ll Need
- Paint scraper
- Cornice cement
- Water
- Bucket
- Drill
- Plasterboard screws
- Fine sandpaper
- Lint-free rag or sponge
- Sealer undercoat
- Acrylic paint that matches your ceiling colour
- Painting equipment
- Sturdy ladder
How to Repair Cracked Cornice
1. Remove Loose Paint or Plaster
First, take a close look at the cracked area. Use a paint scraper to gently remove any loose paint or plaster from around the crack.
This step is important because it helps create a clean surface for the new cement to stick to, ensuring a longer-lasting repair.
2. Mix Cornice Cement
Next, you need to prepare the cornice cement. In a bucket, mix the cornice cement with water following the instructions on the package.
Stir it until you get a smooth, paste-like consistency. Properly mixed cement will bond better and provide a more durable repair.
3. Fill the Crack
Now, use the paint scraper to apply the cornice cement paste into the crack between the cornice and the ceiling. Make sure you press the paste firmly into the gap, filling it.
This step is crucial because it helps strengthen the cornice and prevent new cracks from forming.
4. Secure the Cornice
To make sure the cornice stays in place while the cement sets, use a drill to drive plasterboard screws up through the cornice into the ceiling. This helps hold everything together.
You might see some of the cement oozing out when you do this – that’s normal. Just scrape off the excess cement and use it to cover the heads of the screws.
This will help keep the surface smooth.
5. Smooth and Paint
Let the cement set for a few minutes. When it starts to harden, take a damp lint-free rag or sponge and wipe along the crack to smooth out the surface.
This is key for getting a nice, even finish. Once the cement is completely dry, lightly sand the area with fine sandpaper to remove any rough spots.
Then, apply a sealer undercoat to the repaired area. After the undercoat dries, paint over it with two top coats of acrylic paint that match your ceiling colour.
This will blend the repair with the rest of the ceiling and protect it from future damage.
Helpful Tips for a Great Repair
- Safety First
Always use a sturdy ladder and make sure someone is around to help if you need it. - Good Ventilation
When mixing and applying cornice cement and paint, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. - Know When to Call a Pro
If the cracks are big or keep coming back, it might be a good idea to talk to a professional or the Building Commission for advice. They can help make sure the job is done right.
Understanding Cornices and Moulding
Many people get confused between cornices and moulding. Both are decorative edges where the wall meets the ceiling, but they are a bit different.
Cornices are a type of crown moulding that sticks out a bit more, creating a nice overhang. This not only looks good but also helps keep moisture away from your walls, providing extra protection.
When to Hire Professionals
Fixing ceiling cornices can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to doing this kind of work. For a high-quality finish and to ensure everything is done safely, you might want to hire professionals like the team at Perth Cornice Repairs.
They offer a range of services including ceiling repairs, installations, and replacements, so you can be sure your home is in good hands. Fixing cracked cornices is something you can do yourself with the right tools and a bit of patience.
By following these simple steps, you can restore the beauty of your ceiling and prevent further damage. Remember to work safely, use good quality materials, and don’t hesitate to call in the pros if you need extra help.
Your ceiling cornices are a key part of your home’s charm, and with proper care, they can stay looking great for many years. If you need more information or professional help, get in touch with Cornice Repair Perth.
They are experts in ceiling repairs and can ensure your home looks its best.
