Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/13/2008

Question
Hi bruce.

I would like to know the best way to patch a crack in a  blown on textured wall? I have a long crack in my ceiling and want to learn to repair them myself. The correct way.

Thank you, charles.

Answer
Hi charles, first of all you try to scrape or sand the texture off on both sides and including the crack about six inches wide on each side of the crack.  Then I like to use the fiberglass drywall tape.  It has a sticky side that you stick to the ceiling centered over the crack.  Then you take some drywall mud and bed the tape good with a six inch drywall knife. Be sure to cover the fiberglass tape  well and then pull the mud down tight to it so that you have a neat tight six inch wide seam.
Let that dry completely.  Sand it with 100 grit paper to remove any ridges but don't over sand it and expose the fiberglass too much.  Then you take your six inch knife and put a layer of from the middle of the tape off to each side leaving you with a tight 12" wide mud joint.  Let that dry completely.  Sand to remove any ridges or rough spots with 120 grit paper.
 Now if the seam looks pretty good you are ready for texture.  It it seems too noticeable use a 12" knife and make your seam wider with another skim coat of mud.  The wider the joint the less noticeable it will be as long as you continue to taper the edges tightly with the knife.
Once you are done with the taping and sanding you can purchase texture at your local Home Depot or Lowes that comes in a spray can.  Find the one that best describes your texture, "popcorn" or "orange peel" or "knock down".  Don't try to pile the texture on.  Fog it lightly to begin with and try to blend it in with the surrounding ceiling.  Let it dry and do another pass until your texture matches and blends in with the surrounding area.I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com