How to Repair Wall Cracks: DIY vs Hiring a Plasterer

Walls develop cracks over time, and knowing how to fix cracked walls is important for any homeowner. Wall crack repair can be simple if the cracks are minor, but bigger or recurring cracks may need professional help. 

In this guide, we’ll explain how to make the right choice between a DIY approach and a professional plasterer to keep your walls strong and looking good. Let’s dive deeper into it. 

What Causes Cracked Walls?

Cracks in walls develop for many reasons. Here are the most common causes.

1. Age of the Building

Old buildings often develop cracks because the structure has gone through many years of natural movement and environmental change.

2. Temperature and Humidity Changes

Walls expand when the weather is warm and contract when it cools down. Over time, this movement creates small, surface-level cracks in plaster or paint.

3. Poor Construction or Low-Quality Plaster

If the plaster mix is weak, uneven, or applied too quickly, cracks can form much earlier. This happens often in older homes or where construction standards were not followed properly.

4. Moisture Problems

Excess moisture weakens plaster from within. Leaking pipes, damp walls, roof seepage, or drainage issues can cause the plaster to soften and eventually crack. These cracks often deepen and spread if the moisture source is not fixed.

5. Structural Movement

Large cracks, zigzag shapes, or cracks that widen at one end may indicate foundation movement. These are more serious and should be checked by a professional immediately.

When to Repair Wall Cracks Yourself? 

DIY plaster repair works best for small, simple wall cracks that do not indicate serious structural problems. Consider the following points when deciding on cracked wall repair by yourself:

• Hairline Cracks: Thin, shallow cracks that are not spreading can be safely repaired at home.

• Surface-Level Plaster Gaps: Minor plaster gaps or small chips are suitable for DIY repairs.

• Non-Recurring Cracks: If the crack has not appeared repeatedly, DIY is often effective.

• Dry Walls: Walls should be free of moisture or dampness before attempting repairs.

• Non-Structural Areas: Cracks in interior walls or corners, where the wall does not carry a heavy load, can be handled at home.

• Quick Cosmetic Fixes: Small cracks that affect only appearance, rather than structural integrity, are ideal for DIY.

While DIY repairs work for minor issues, certain repair of cracks require professional expertise to ensure long-lasting and safe results.

When to Hire a Professional Plasterer?

Some wall cracks are too serious for DIY and need expert attention. Key situations to consider professionals include:

• Wide or Deep Cracks: Cracks over 3–4 mm often indicate structural problems that DIY fillers cannot fix.

• Recurring Cracks: Reappearing cracks suggest unresolved issues such as wall movement, poor-quality plaster, or hidden moisture.

• Moisture Damage: Cracks accompanied by damp patches, bubbling paint, or musty smells require professional intervention.

• Cracks Across Ceilings or Corners: Fragile areas under structural stress need skilled handling to prevent further damage.

• Weak or Crumbling Plaster: Hollow or crumbling walls cannot be repaired effectively with DIY methods; a professional can rebuild the surface.

• Uncertain Crack Type: If the severity of the crack is unclear, consulting a plasterer ensures long-term repair. Always check credentials and know how to spot tradie scam before hiring to ensure quality and safety.

DIY vs Professional Plasterer: What to Choose?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which option is best for how to fix a crack in wall or plastering project.

The table shows the key differences between DIY and professional plasterer approaches. While DIY may work for minor, cosmetic cracks, the table highlights the limitations of home repairs. DIY solutions often lack durability, may overlook hidden structural or moisture problems, and can produce uneven finishes. 

Professional plasterers provide a thorough assessment, durable repairs, and a flawless finish that blends seamlessly with your wall. They handle complex, wide, deep, or recurring cracks safely, address underlying issues like dampness, and prevent future damage, ensuring how to fix wall cracks safely.

Considering these advantages, hiring a licensed tradie for repairs is the safer, smarter, and long-term solution for fixing crack in walls.

Trusted Tradie Network: Find Verified Plasterers for Fixing Wall Cracks

Finding a reliable plasterer can be challenging, especially when you want quality, safety, and long-lasting results. Trusted Tradie Network makes it easy to connect with verified, skilled plasterers in your area. Each professional is background-checked and rated for expertise, ensuring you hire someone you can trust. 

Whether it’s a minor wall crack or a more serious structural repair, you can browse profiles, compare services, and book jobs confidently. Trusted Tradie Network helps save time, reduce stress, and guarantee a professional solution that keeps your walls safe and visually flawless.

Conclusion

Repairing wall cracks requires the right approach based on the type, size, and underlying cause. DIY is suitable for minor, superficial cracks, while professional plasterers are best for wide, deep, recurring, or moisture-related damage. 

Professionals ensure durability, proper assessment, and a seamless finish, giving long-term value and peace of mind. Combining careful evaluation with the right choice, DIY for small cosmetic issues or a verified plasterer for serious repairs—helps maintain safe, strong, and visually appealing walls. 

Prioritizing quality repair today prevents bigger problems tomorrow and keeps your home secure and attractive. This is key to prevent wall cracks after repair.

FAQs

1. What causes cracks to appear in walls?

Cracks appear due to temperature changes, moisture, building movement, or poor plastering. Some cracks are normal and harmless. Others can signal deeper issues like water damage or structural shifts. Checking the width and pattern helps you understand the cause.

2. Can I fix wall cracks myself?

You can fix small hairline cracks with filler and paint. These are safe for DIY repair. If the crack is deep, wide, or keeps returning, it is better to hire a plasterer. They can check what is happening inside the wall and repair it properly.

3. How to fix hairline cracks in walls?

For fixing cracks in walls, clean the area, apply a good quality filler, let it dry, and sand it lightly. Finish with primer and paint. This simple method works well for minor cracks that do not change in size.

4. Where can I find a reliable plasterer for wall crack repairs?

To find a reliable plasterer, use a trusted platform like Trusted Tradie Network. Each professional is licensed and background-checked. This ensures you hire someone trustworthy for wall crack repairs.

5. How to fix cracks in walls before painting?

Gently widen the crack using a putty knife to remove loose plaster. Fill it with a suitable wall filler and let it dry completely. Sand the area smooth, then apply primer before painting for an even finish.