Hey folks, I live in a two-story house with vaulted ceilings in the upstairs bedrooms and bathroom. Recently, I've noticed several small cracks where the vaulted ceilings meet the flat ceiling, especially in the bathroom. One crack looks pretty serious as the ceiling seems to be sagging, and I can actually push it upward. It seems like the wall connection is also misaligning. Besides a few minor cracks on the bathroom molding that might just be from caulking, these are the only major issues I've spotted. I've read that such cracks could indicate potential structural damage. Should I call in a professional to take a look, or is it safe to just repair them myself and keep an eye on things? I appreciate any advice!
2 Answers
It's tough to say just from photos alone. The cracks could be due to bad drywall installation or a sign of something more serious like structural shifting. You also didn’t mention your house's age or location, which can really change the context. Older houses might face different issues compared to newer builds. If you suspect something is off, it’s worth getting a pro to check it out. I’d recommend looking for a structural engineer rather than just a handyman to ensure you're not just putting a band-aid on a bigger problem.
I totally get why you’re worried! It’s a good idea to have an expert look at it, especially since there’s a sagging ceiling involved. Long-term damage can get pretty costly if left unattended. If your house was built in the '90s, it could definitely be a factor in what you’re seeing. You might want to find a structural engineer for the inspection. As for costs, many professionals offer initial consultations that could be free or low-cost, so make sure to ask about that when you reach out! Good luck!