Drywall is a common material used in constructing homes and buildings. It’s also known as gypsum board, sheetrock, or plasterboard. Despite its durability, drywall is still susceptible to damage, especially if it gets wet. This article will discuss what happens if drywall gets damp and what you should do about it.
What Happens When Drywall Gets Wet?
Drywall is made of gypsum and paper, and both of these materials can be damaged by water. When water penetrates drywall, it weakens the gypsum, causing it to crumble and break apart. The paper covering the drywall will also get wet and bubble and warp. This can lead to mould growth, which can cause health problems for those exposed to it.
The drywall can also start to sag and lose its structural integrity if left wet for an extended period. The longer the water sits on the drywall, the more damage it will cause, making it more difficult and expensive to repair.
What Should You Do If Your Drywall Gets Wet?
For starters, find the source of the water and stop it. This may require shutting off the water supply or fixing a leaky pipe. Once the water source is under control, you can assess the damage to the drywall.
If the drywall is only slightly damp, you may be able to dry it out with a fan or dehumidifier. Wear a mask and a pair of gloves when handling wet drywall, as it can be a breeding ground for mould and bacteria.
You may need to remove and replace the drywall if it’s severely damaged. This is more complicated that involves getting rid of the damaged area and replacing it with new drywall.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a professional to do it on your behalf.
Steps to Repair Water-Damaged Drywall
If you decide to repair water-damaged drywall yourself, follow these steps:
- Cut Out the Damaged Area: Use a utility knife to cut out the damaged section of drywall. Make sure to cut along the centre of the studs so that you have a solid surface to attach the new drywall to.
- Install New Drywall: Cut a new piece of drywall to fit the hole you just created. Secure it to the studs using drywall screws.
- Tape and Mud the Seams: Apply drywall tape over the seams between the new and existing drywall. Then, apply joint compound (also known as mud) over the tape and smooth it out. Let it dry completely.
- Sand and Repeat: After the joint compound has dried, use sandpaper to make it a smooth surface. Do this procedure 2-3 times until the joints are perfectly even.
- Prime and Paint: Once the joint compound is dry, prime the repaired area and paint it to match the rest of the wall.
Final Thoughts
Although drywall is a durable material, it’s not invincible. Water damage can weaken drywall, leading to mould growth and structural damage. If your drywall gets wet, take action quickly to prevent further damage. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to hire a professional to repair it. However, if you’re comfortable doing it yourself, follow the steps said above to repair water-damaged drywall and restore your home to its former glory.
When it comes to drywall repairs, We Plaster & Recruit has the right people for the job. Our plasterers in Gold Coast, Queensland, have the expertise and experience to handle any drywall repair, big or small. Call us at 0481 416 120 to get a quote!