Singapore’s monsoon season (November to March) brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can lead to wall cracks in your home. Whether caused by structural issues in older homes or settling in new ones, wall cracks not only affect aesthetics but may also worsen into leaks or structural hazards. Fortunately, most minor cracks can be fixed with simple DIY methods! This article provides a step-by-step guide to repairing wall cracks and shares home maintenance tips to keep your home sturdy during the monsoon season.

Why Do Walls Crack?

Before starting repairs, understanding the causes of cracks helps you choose the right approach. Wall cracks in Singapore are typically caused by:

• Humid Weather: High humidity during the monsoon season causes walls to expand or contract, forming small cracks.
• Building Settlement: Older or newer homes in Singapore may develop structural cracks due to settling.
• Temperature Changes: Thermal expansion and contraction of materials like cement or plaster create cracks.
• Physical Impact: Moving furniture or accidental impacts can cause surface cracks.

If cracks are wider than 3mm or accompanied by leaks, we recommend contacting a professional repair service (such as Call Handyman). The guide below is for DIY repairs of minor cracks (less than 3mm wide).

Repairing Wall Cracks: 5-Step DIY Guide

Fixing wall cracks is straightforward with the right tools and materials. Follow these steps to complete basic repairs in just 5 minutes!

Required Tools and Materials

• Caulk/Sealant: Choose an indoor or outdoor sealant (e.g., polyurethane or silicone sealant, available at Singapore hardware stores or building supply shops).
• Putty Knife: For cleaning and applying sealant.
• Sandpaper (medium grit, about 120): To smooth the repaired surface.
• Cleaning Cloth and Alcohol: To clean the wall surface.
• Paint and Small Brush: To cover the repair and restore the wall’s appearance.
• Safety Gear: Mask and gloves for protection.

Step 1: Clean the Crack

Use a putty knife to gently scrape away loose dust, paint, or debris around the crack. Then, wipe the crack with a cloth dampened with alcohol to ensure a clean, oil-free surface. This helps the sealant adhere better.

Step 2: Fill the Crack

Load the sealant into a caulking gun and apply it evenly along the crack, ensuring it fully fills the gap. Smooth the surface with a putty knife. Avoid over-applying to maintain a neat appearance.

Step 3: Allow to Dry

Follow the sealant’s instructions and let it dry for 24-48 hours. Singapore’s monsoon season humidity may slow drying, so ensure good indoor ventilation to speed up the process.

Step 4: Sand the Surface

Once dry, lightly sand the repaired area with sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface. For deeper cracks, you may need to repeat the filling and sanding process.

Step 5: Repaint

Use a small brush to apply paint matching the wall to cover the repaired area. Opt for waterproof latex paint (e.g., Dulux or Nippon Paint) to enhance durability.

Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Wall Cracks

Repairing cracks is a temporary fix; preventing them is the long-term solution! Here are maintenance tips for Singapore homes during the monsoon season:

1. Control Indoor Humidity:
   • Use a dehumidifier or charcoal bags to keep indoor humidity below 60%.
   • During the monsoon season, close windows and use air conditioning or dehumidifiers to reduce wall moisture.
2. Regular Wall Inspections:
   • Check walls quarterly for small cracks, especially near windows and exterior walls.
   • Address cracks early to prevent worsening.
3. Improve Ventilation:
   • In non-monsoon weather, keep indoor and outdoor air circulating to reduce moisture buildup.
   • Install exhaust fans (especially in bathrooms and kitchens) to minimize humidity’s impact on walls.
4. Choose Quality Materials:
   • Use waterproof paint or anti-crack putty during renovations to enhance wall durability.
   • Recommended brands in Singapore, like Nippon Paint’s waterproof series, suit local climate conditions.
5. Professional Inspections:
   • If cracks reappear frequently, it may indicate structural issues. We recommend contacting Call Handyman for a professional assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When Should I Call a Professional Repair Service?

A: If cracks are wider than 3mm, accompanied by leaks, or involve wall deformation, contact a professional team immediately. DIY repairs are suitable only for minor surface cracks.

Q2: How Much Does It Cost to Repair Wall Cracks?

A: DIY repairs cost about SGD$10-40 (depending on materials). Professional repair costs vary based on crack severity. We recommend using the Call Handyman App to instantly get three quotes.

Take Action Now: Keep Your Home Crack-Free!

The humid monsoon season makes wall cracks a common issue in Singapore homes, but with simple DIY repairs and maintenance tips, you can address them easily! For complex crack issues or professional assistance, Call Handyman is always ready to provide fast on-site repairs. Book now at Call Handyman to protect your home!