why is the paint cracking in my bathroom ceiling?

Answer 1

As the others have stated... high humidity can be a problem. Rather than opening a window (not always an option), I prefer to install an exhaust fan. These can easily be found of a size that can replace the ceiling fixture, if there is one, and running a simple flexible duct to an outside wall takes care of where to go with the moist air.

If you see a crack in a straight line... then that means your sheetrock has shifted. There has either been some lateral movement, or the sheetrock has pulled off from the studs just a bit. Re-secure the sheetrock, if necessary, and repair the joint. I like to use the self stick mesh tape on ceilings....much quicker than the old 'paper' joint tape.

One other possible problem... if this is a textured ceiling... (popcorn texture for example) - then the texture itself can be breaking down due to being wet. This actually looks like a lot of little cracks in the texture. In this situation, you will need to scrape the texture off, and replace it. There are different methods of texturing, and products... while popcorn ceilings were popular for a time, there are other methods available now.

Give us a few more details, and perhaps we can be of more help. :)

Good Luck

Answer 2

My first question is, do you have adequate ventilation in your bathroom? Steam buildup sticks to the ceiling and starts to wear down the paint. The constant wet and dry conditions will have your paint crack. If you live in a really humid city, that can also be a problem. Open your bathroom window when you shower, and that should help slow it down.

Answer 3

might not have been properly prepared before painting. or the wrong kind of paint for a humid space and no ventilation. if you have a fan you should always use when showering.

Answer 4

Because you have no ventilation and its probably an old oil base paint.

To fix:
Scrape, prime, and paint with latex primer and latex semi-gloss paint.