Cracks on gypsum board (drywall) walls and ceilings are associated with normal wood and material movement. This movement is caused by a number of factors such as shrinkage, foundation settling, and temperature/moisture variation. Cracks tend to be more prevalent during the home’s first year.

To minimize the likelihood of drywall cracks, avoid excessive temperature and humidity changes in your home. If you are leaving your home for an extended period of time, adjust the thermostat to a setting no lower than 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and no more than 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. 

If you experience a drywall crack that exceeds the specifications in the Standards of Performance, your New Home Warranty covers a one-time repair during the first year. If possible, we recommend deferring the repair until your home has been through three seasons of temperature/climate changes.