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How to Repair a Seam

A crack in a wall near a door.

Seams in drywall, plaster and wallpaper can crack, bulge or become uneven over time, leaving your walls and ceilings looking less than perfect. This guide will walk you through various techniques to repair seams effectively, ensuring a smooth, professional finish.

Tools and supplies to repair cracks in a wall.

Seams in drywall, plaster, and wallpaper can crack, bulge, or become uneven over time, leaving your walls and ceilings looking less than perfect. This guide will walk you through various techniques to repair seams effectively, ensuring a smooth, professional finish.

Tools and Supplies You'll Need

How to Repair Cracks in Drywall Seams

Cracks in drywall seams often appear due to settling or moisture changes.

  1. Clean the Area: Remove loose debris and dust.
  2. Apply Joint Compound: Use a putty knife to spread a thin layer of compound over the crack.
  3. Add Drywall or Painter’s Tape: Embed drywall tape into the compound.
  4. Smooth and Sand: Once dry, sand the area smooth.

Tip: Rather than redoing your work over and over again, you can always hide your mistakes by using textured paint, adding decorative trim or molding or applying a patterned wallpaper.

Sanding over a wall crack repair.

How to Repair Plaster Seams on Drywall

Plaster seams can crack or crumble over time.

  1. Remove Loose Plaster: Scrape away any loose material.
  2. Apply Joint Compound: Fill the seam with compound.
  3. Smooth the Surface: Use a putty knife to level the repair.

How to Fix Drywall Seams on Ceilings

Ceiling seams can be tricky due to gravity.

  1. Reinforce the Seam: Apply drywall tape securely.
  2. Layer Joint Compound: Build up thin layers, allowing each to dry.
  3. Sand and Prime: Smooth out and prime before painting.
A crack in a wall covered with wallpaper.

How to Repair Wallpaper Seams

Wallpaper seams may peel or separate over time.

  1. Apply Adhesive: Use wallpaper seam adhesive.
  2. Smooth the Seam: Gently press the seam flat.
  3. Wipe Excess Adhesive: Clean any overflow.

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By following these steps, you'll achieve seamless repairs that restore your walls and ceilings to their original beauty. For more tips and product recommendations, explore our Project Center.

FAQs About Seam Repairs

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