Tips for repairing a cracked ceiling

Q: An ice dam left a small irregular brownish area and a crack in a bedroom ceiling. How do I fix it?

A: You don't mention if it's a textured ceiling, the width of the crack, if there's any loose or missing plaster, or if the area is bulging.

Depending on those factors, you may need the services of a professional. Check yellow-page directories under "Ceiling Contractors" or "Stucco and Texturing."

It's important to solve the problem in addition to repairing the ceiling. Go to www.commerce.state.mn.us. Type "ice dam" in the search window for prevention information.

Meanwhile, for simple hairline cracks:

• Gently sand the crack to smooth out any unevenness.

• With a putty knife, apply spackling compound to fill in the crack.

Feather out the edges so the patch is smooth and even with the rest of the ceiling.

• Let dry and lightly sand.

• Prime and paint. If you just paint over the stains, they are likely to show through. Use a stain-sealer primer and repaint.

Or, for a slightly larger crack:

• Before the initial coat of spackling compound has dried, place drywall tape over the crack and smooth. Apply another coat of spackling, feather and let dry. Repeat.

• Sand to smooth, apply stain-seal primer and paint.

If your ceiling was damaged by leaks from an ice dam, a lot of water entered the attic before it showed up in your room. If the attic area is accessible, check it for water damage and mold.

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