March 2010

This month, I thought I'd give some advice on a common problem I find in many older homes. Specifically, cracks in lath and plaster due to setting over many years. Typically, I find these types of crack at the edge of windows and doorways where the cripple studs were under-framed. Minor movement (1/2 to 1 inch over 80-100 years) and cracks like the one above are common. So, first, is it a major structural issue? The answer is no. It does, however, mean that the top of the doors may need planing since they will not be perfectly square. To repair the plaster, do not use joint compound. It will re-crack. I suggest V troweling a deeper grove in the crack and filling with Durabond 90. It has fiberglass in it, dries quickly and will not crack. It is also inexpensive, though must be mixed by hand. It also requires more sanding, but the end result is permanent.