[mgfarmer]

Our home is 4 years old and I noticed this winter that we have developed some cracks in the drywall around a couple of window frames. It's a very thin hairline crack(almost like just the paint has separated) that extends 1/2 in from the corner of the window and then goes half way down the length of the window(kinda and unside down L shape). Has anyone seen something like this and know what might cause it? Is it poorworksmanship or possible settlement? I would think if it was settlement then the crack would extend all the way to the floor or ceiling.

[Dancing_With_The_Angels]

Our home is 4 years old and I noticed this winter that we have developed some cracks in the drywall around a couple of window frames. Its a very thin hairline crack(almost like just the paint has separated) that extends 1/2 in from the corner of the window and then goes half way down the length of the window(kinda and unside down L shape). Has anyone seen something like this and know what might cause it? Is it poorworksmanship or possible settlement? I would think if it was settlement then the crack would extend all the way to the floor or ceiling.

I think it could be caused by the change in weather mainly heat differences. Or perhaps swelling caused by eavaporating water.

[wags]

Sounds like the cripple (stud) has shrunk, that would account for the L shaped crack a few inches from the window.