How to: Filling Cracks Around Door Frames

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How to: Filling Cracks Around Door Frames: Expert Ways to Make it Better

How to: Filling Cracks Around Door Frames: Expert Ways to Make it Better

Gaps and cracks around door frames are common. Why they happen and how to fix them become a wandering trail. Damage can be due to several things. There are natural settling and humidity changes. Then, there are the more serious foundation problems. Use our guide and learn when to make repairs, what damage signals foundation problems, and what to fix after foundation repairs are finished.

Different Types of Cracks and Gaps

Cracks and gaps vary. Each type may or may not be a sign of additional problems.

Hairline Cracks: Small cracks and are more cosmetic. They often happen when with minor settling and temperature changes.
Diagonal Cracks: Often a sign of foundation problems. The cracks extend from the corners of door frames.
Horizontal Cracks: These can indicate major foundation problems. Make sure to have your foundation inspected.
Vertical Cracks Above the Door Frame: Often caused by foundation problems. The cracks may appear as a single long split. Also, you may see multiple smaller cracks forming along the wall above the door. They can be a sign of foundation movement. Monitored vertical cracks for expansion.
Stair-Step Cracks: Common in drywall and sheetrock. They are also a sign that your foundation is moving. Consider getting a foundation inspection before making repairs.
Large Gaps Around the Frame: Usually due to foundation settlement or poor installation, leading to air leaks and difficulty closing doors.
Door Frame Splits: Visible separations in the door frame, often due to foundation shifts, poor construction, or moisture damage.

When Cracks Indicate Foundation Problems

Cracks above or around door frames can sometimes be a warning sign of foundation issues. Here are a few indicators that foundation movement may be the culprit:

Diagonal or stair-step cracks extending from the corners of the door frame.
Doors sticking or not closing properly, along with visible misalignment.
Gaps that widen over time and are present in multiple areas of the home.
Cracks wider than 1/8 inch that continue to grow.
Uneven floors.
When walls and ceilings separate.

Have you noticed any of these issues? Before starting repairs, schedule a foundation inspection.

What to Fix Before and After Foundation Repair

Before Foundation Repair:

Inspect and document: Take photos. Measure how wide and long the cracks are. Monitor changes over time.
Check for leaks or drainage issues: Poor water drainage around your home leads to foundation problems.
Hold off on cosmetic repairs: Shifting foundations will damage the repairs you make. Have the foundation repaired, then make your DIY repairs.

After Foundation Repair:

Allow time for stabilization: Many professionals recommend waiting 4-6 weeks post-repair to ensure no further settling occurs.
Re-check door alignment: If doors still don’t close properly, you may need additional adjustments.
Seal and patch cracks: Once stable, you can fill and repair cracks for a finished look.

How to Fill and Fix Cracks and Gaps Around Door Frames

Once your foundation is stable or if the cracks are minor (not due to structural issues), you can repair them using the following steps:

Step-by-Step Repair Process:

Clean the area: Remove any loose debris, dust, or old caulk.
Choose the right filler (see comparison below).
Apply filler or caulk: Use a putty knife or caulking gun to apply the product. This way, you fill the crack completely.
Smooth and sand: Let the filler dry completely. Then, sand the surface, blending it with the surrounding area.
Prime and paint: Make sure and match wall and doorframe colors. This way, you get a seamless look when repairs are done.

When to Use Tape for Cracks

In some cases, you need to tape cracks before applying filler. The tape reinforces the repair and helps prevent future cracking. More often than not, use tape on larger cracks or areas prone to movement.

Product Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Mesh Drywall Tape	Large or recurring cracks in drywall	Strong adhesion, prevents future cracking	Requires joint compound, can be visible if not blended properly
Paper Drywall Tape	Deep cracks in drywall and sheetrock	Durable, integrates well with compound	Can be difficult to apply without experience
Fiberglass Reinforced Tape	High-movement areas and large gaps	Strong, prevents long-term separation	More expensive, harder to sand smooth

How to Use Tape for Crack Repair:

Clean the crack thoroughly: Remove any dust or debris.
Apply the tape over the crack: Make sure to tap covers the entire crack.
Spread joint compound over the tape: Use a putty knife. Smooth the compound evenly over the tape.
Let it dry completely: Drying time depends on the product used.
Sand and apply a second coat if necessary: Sand the dried compound for a seamless blend before applying primer and paint.

How to Fix Cracks & Gaps in Wallpapered Areas

If the area around the door frame is wallpapered, additional care is needed:

Peel back loose wallpaper: Carefully remove any lifting edges near the crack or gap.
Apply filler or caulk: Use an appropriate filler for cracks and let it dry completely.
Smooth and sand: Ensure the repaired surface is even before reapplying wallpaper.
Reattach wallpaper: Use wallpaper adhesive to secure the edges back in place.
Touch up the surface: If necessary, use a small paintbrush to blend in the edges for a seamless repair.

Product Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Spackle or Joint Compound	Small, surface-level cracks	Easy to apply, dries quickly	Not flexible, may crack again if movement occurs
Paintable Caulk	Gaps and minor cracks around trim	Flexible, prevents future cracks	Can shrink over time, may require reapplication
Wood Filler	Cracks in wooden door frames and splits	Strong adhesion, paintable	Not flexible, may crack if wood shifts
Expanding Foam	Large gaps around frame	Seals air leaks, fills wide spaces	Hard to control expansion, may need trimming
Wallpaper Seam Adhesive	Wallpapered areas with cracks or gaps	Blends seamlessly, prevents peeling	May require repainting to match patterns

Filling Gaps & Cracks Around Door Frames

We hope our guide will help you understand why cracks, gaps, and splits around door frames happen. This will help you make lasting repairs. Make sure to get foundation problems fixed before making repairs. Is it time to have your foundation looked at? Contact Arch Foundation Repair to schedule an inspection. Once the foundation issues are addressed, you can finish making your repairs.

How to: Filling Cracks Around Door Frames: Expert Ways to Make it Better