Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 1/21/2009

Question
I recently moved into a 120-year old home, whose kitchen was completely
gutted and renovated.  A load-bearing wall was removed and a beam
installed (done by architect, w/village permits, by former owner).  The kitchen
renovation was done 4 years ago.  I've noticed a diagonal crack in the drywall,
and I am wondering if it's related to a stair-step pattern on the
corresponding exterior wall, that follows the seams along the wood siding.  Is
this just "new" settling from the beam being installed, or do I have cause to
hire a structural engineer for more fundamental problems?

Answer
Hi Jane, I would venture to say that yes the two cracks are related if they follow similar paths.  What may be causing the crack is another story.  Yes, it is possible that the new beam installation could have caused some settling during and after the work was done.   If this is the case then it's very probable that this condition has run its course and the cracking will not get any worse.  Patch the crack with a fiberglass tape and drywall joint compound.  

If the crack comes back or worsens, then it would behoove you to seek the help of an engineer.  If you have access to the basement or crawl space below and can look at the foundation in this area, you can look for structural elements that may have shifted during or after the new construction which may be contributing to this cracking.  I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com