Drywall Crack Repair in Chicago Suburbs: Why It Keeps Coming Back

Noticed cracks after a recent remodel? You're not alone.

Maybe you’ve just updated your bathroom or finished your basement. The walls look smooth, the paint is fresh — everything seems perfect.And then, a couple of weeks later, you notice it: a hairline crack, a visible seam, or a corner that’s starting to separate.

Frustrating? Absolutely.

Why We Handle So Many Drywall Crack Repair Projects in Chicago Suburbs

As contractors, we see this all the time — especially in homes around Palatine, Arlington Heights, and other northern suburbs of Chicago. Recurring drywall cracks are one of the most common reasons people reach out to us.

Sure, you can patch them temporarily.But if the drywall wasn’t installed correctly, those cracks will keep coming back.

Let’s take a closer look at why this happens — and what it takes to fix it for good.

Problem #1: Fast and Cheap Installation

Why Quick Jobs Lead to Long-Term Issues

Most recurring cracks start with poor installation. We often see:

• Only one coat of joint compound applied

• No tape, or the wrong kind of tape used

• Quick-dry mud that shrinks and cracks

• Screws spaced too far apart

• No gap left for seasonal expansion and contraction

  
  

It might’ve looked fine at first, but it wasn’t built to last.

Problem #2: Seasonal Movement

How temperature swings create stress in your walls

In the Chicago suburbs, temperatures range from –5°F in winter to 95°F in summer — with big changes in humidity too.

Drywall expands and contracts with those seasonal shifts. If your seams weren’t reinforced with flexible materials or given space to move, cracks are bound to appear.

Even a perfectly smooth finish won’t save it from poor preparation.

Problem #3: Wrong Materials in Wet Spaces

When the wrong board leads to water damage

Using regular or even moisture-resistant drywall in bathrooms or basements is a common mistake.These materials aren’t designed for tiled showers or constantly damp walls. Over time, they absorb moisture and begin to break down.

We always recommend:

• Cement board behind tiled walls

• Or waterproof backer boards like Kerdi-Board for high-moisture areas

  
  

Yes, it costs more up front — but it saves you from major repairs later.

What Can You Do If Cracks Have Already Appeared?

How to fix the problem for good

You’ve got two options: a quick fix or a proper repair.

A quick patch might cover the crack for a few months. But for a long-term solution, here’s what needs to happen:

• Cut out the damaged section

• Re-tape the seam using the correct tape (paper or mesh, depending on the surface)

• Apply multiple coats of joint compound — not just one

• Let each layer dry fully and sand it smooth

• Finish with an even, clean top coat

• Use materials matched to the room — especially in wet spaces like bathrooms or basements

Want to learn how a proper drywall job should be done from start to finish?

Read Part 2: What a Quality Drywall Finish Really Looks Like

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If you’re looking for reliable drywall crack repair in Chicago suburbs, our team is here to help — with durable, long-term solutions that actually last. Learn more.