Cracking due to compression typically follows which features in a wall?

Cracking due to compression in a wall commonly follows the features associated with corner bead and drywall seams. This is primarily because these areas are where different materials meet and where structural movements are more likely to be manifested as cracks.

Corner bead, which is used on outside corners of walls, provides a protective edge to the drywall but is also a common stress point. When walls experience compression, such as from settling or shifting of the building structure, the forces exerted can lead to visible cracks that often originate at the corner bead. Similarly, drywall seams, which represent the connections between different panels of drywall, are points where there can be movement, making them vulnerable to cracking.

Consequently, observing cracks in these areas can help inspectors identify potential larger structural issues that may need further investigation. Understanding the context of these features in relation to wall stress is crucial for experienced home inspectors, as it helps pinpoint possible issues with the integrity of the structure.