Cracked Ceiling Paint
Fine or wide cracks appearing in the paint on the ceiling, sometimes with flaking edges.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Building settlement causing plaster to crack beneath
- 2Too many thick layers of paint applied over the years
- 3Thermal movement in the structure above
How Urgent Is This?
This is a cosmetic issue. It is not causing damage and can be addressed in your own time.
What Needs to Be Done
A decorator will scrape away loose paint, fill the cracks, sand smooth, and repaint. If the plaster beneath is also cracked, a plasterer may need to skim the ceiling first.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £575 – £1,700 | Materials: £108 – £455
Enter your postcode for a local price estimate
Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
Find a Painter & Decorator
Enter your postcode above to find local painter & decorators, or browse all painter & decorators.
Find a Painter & DecoratorWant a More Accurate Diagnosis?
Upload a photo of the problem and our AI tool will give you a detailed diagnosis, estimated cost, and connect you with local tradespeople.
Try Snap and FixStill Not Sure? Ask a Tradesperson
Post your question and get free advice from tradespeople who deal with this every day.
Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Avoid applying paint too thickly. Use flexible paint or lining paper on ceilings prone to movement. Address any structural movement before redecorating.
Related Problems
Other Painter & Decorator Problems
Paint flaking, bubbling, or peeling away from interior or exterior walls in sheets or patches.
A persistent discoloured patch on an interior wall, often yellowish or brownish, that may feel damp to the touch.
Wallpaper lifting at the edges, seams, or in patches, sometimes curling away from the wall.
White ceilings gradually turning yellow or brownish, particularly noticeable in kitchens and bathrooms.