How Do I Fix Clay Soil Wall Cracks?
- 1). Inspect your clay soil wall to see what kind of cracks appear on its surface. If there are only hairline cracks, there is not much to worry about since clay soil structures naturally suffer some damage during the years, exposed to temperature and humidity changes. If, however, the cracks are long, deep and wide, first determine the reason for their existence. Note that the reason might be a serious issue such as foundation settling or a dangerous construction issue.
- 2). Cover the hairline cracks with a little patching material. Use plaster or a similar clay-based paste to fill the cracks. The difference between the patch and the surrounding area will undoubtedly be noticeable, but this can be fixed with a simple paint job afterward.
- 3). Treat the medium cracks first by widening them with a stainless steel scraper and then filling them with a joint compound, using the same tool.
- 4). Fix the large cracks in two different stages. First, put fiberglass mesh tape to cover and bridge the wide crack. Adding this kind of patching material is necessary in order to make the repair job durable and long lasting. Then apply two coats of joint compound, allowing a period of time for drying between them. Add a third layer if needed, especially if the area is not evened out.
- 5). Treat the surface of the clay soil wall with fine-grain sandpaper. This will smooth the surface as well as prepare it for a paint job if needed.
- 6). Wipe the whole clay soil wall with a slightly damp sponge. Be careful and gentle, making sure not to spoil the repairs you made. Let the whole wall dry before proceeding with further treatments such as painting.
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