Interior Decorating · Project 2

Extension Ceiling Restoration

A comprehensive ceiling repair and redecoration following widespread plasterboard joint failure.

The restored extension with exposed timber beams and a smooth ceiling
The restored extension with exposed timber beams and a smooth ceiling

The Brief

The owners of this first-floor extension had experienced widespread cracking throughout the plasterboard ceiling. Over time, the defects became increasingly noticeable, affecting both the appearance of the room and confidence in the quality of the original installation.

The objective was not simply to conceal the cracks, but to investigate the cause of the failure, carry out a lasting repair and restore the room to a high decorative standard.

Before

The original cracking

Cracking had developed along plasterboard joints across the extension ceiling, requiring more than a cosmetic repair.

Original cracking along a plasterboard joint
Original cracking along a plasterboard joint

Investigation

Understanding the cause

Investigation revealed that many of the plasterboard joints exceeded the recommended width for the materials used. The original installation had also used fibreglass mesh tape rather than the higher-strength paper joint tape generally preferred for this type of application.

The failed joints therefore needed opening, reinforcing and repairing before decoration.

Opened plasterboard joint showing the original mesh reinforcement
Opened plasterboard joint showing the original mesh reinforcement

Repairs

Reinforcing and finishing

Each failed joint was carefully opened to remove loose material and prepare a sound base. Suitable filler was applied, followed by professional paper joint tape. Joint compound was built up in stages and allowed to cure between applications, then sanded to produce a smooth surface ready for decoration.

Ceiling and wall joints reinforced and filled during the repair process
Ceiling and wall joints reinforced and filled during the repair process

The Result

A seamless finish

The repaired ceiling now provides a clean, seamless appearance with reinforced plasterboard joints. Following full preparation and decoration, the extension became a bright, modern living space while retaining its distinctive timber beams.

Finished extension with refreshed ceiling and walls
Finished extension with refreshed ceiling and walls

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