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        How to Cover a Ceiling Crack

        Step-by-step instructions for patching a ceiling crack.

        More in Windows Walls and Doors

        patching a ceiling crack
        • Time

          Under Half Day

        • Price Range

          $1 - $50

        • Difficulty

          Easy to Moderate

        Highlights:

        Step 1: Remove Old Drywall Patches and Tape

        Make sure your workspace is covered with a drop cloth. Remove any old drywall tape or patches with the scrapper. To remove drywall tape, use the 5-in-1 tool to get underneath the lip of the tape and begin to take the whole strip off.

        Step 2: Attach Screws to Attic Blocks

        Drill some drywall screws into the ceiling. These screws will attach to the wooden support blocks which were installed in the attic above in the first step of this project.

        drill drywall screws into ceiling attic support

        Step 3: Widen the Ceiling Crack

        Next, take the scrapper (5-in-1) tool and rip a gouge in the ceiling just to make the crack a bit wider. This will give the joint compound something to adhere to.

        Step 4: Apply Drywall Tape and Mud

        Apply a single strip of drywall tape to the crack. Then, apply the first layer of joint compound making sure to push the mud through the mesh of the tape and into the crack.

        Step 5: Smooth the Surface

        Once you've got the first layer on, go over it with a damp double-sided sponge. Use the rough side to smooth out any lumps, then go back over with the smooth side to finish it.

        smooth ceiling surface with sponge

        Step 6: Sand and Paint

        Sand down the area if needed; prime and paint the area.

        sand and paint area

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