Cracks Between Crown Molding and the Ceiling: How to Seal

Learn how to seal cracks between crown molding and the ceiling. Find out how to use paintable latex caulk to fill cracks that form between the ceiling and crown molding.

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LESLIE: Listening in on WJFK we’ve got Bob in Virginia. What can we do for you?

BOB: Oh yes, hi. I was wondering if you could help me with crown moulding that cracks whenever the heat comes on.

LESLIE: Cracks how so?

BOB: It’s actually, I guess, the caulk or the paint between the ceiling and crown moulding.

TOM: It’s probably the paint and the solution is the caulk. Because what happens is the walls expand and contract and if it’s just painted there’s going to be a seam that forms there. What you want to do is the next time that happens hit it with some latex caulk.

LESLIE: Paintable caulk.

TOM: Yeah, paintable, acrylic, latex caulk. That will expand and contract with the wall and the moulding and you won’t see the gap anymore.

BOB: OK, I’ll give that a try.

TOM: Little trick of the trade. You know, caulk goes – is good for many, many things.

LESLIE: Caulk and wood filler. They are a carpenter’s best friend.

TOM: Sealing drafts out is only one small use for caulk. You know, if the people in this country only used caulk for like weatherstripping things, weatherproofing things, they would sell like a quarter of the caulk that they sell today. It’s so forgiving for all sorts of painting projects inside and out. So that’s all you need.

BOB: OK, well thank you and I’ll cover up some carpenters’ mistakes. (Leslie chuckles)

TOM: Alright, Bob. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.