In Utah, drywall is one of the most used building materials in houses. It’s affordable, easy to install, and generally simple to replace. However, drywall also absorbs water, which can make it difficult to remove moisture once it is present. This can lead to stains, softness, mold growth, and structural weaknesses. It’s important for homeowners to understand how to fix water-damaged drywall properly and protect their property from water damage in the future.
Identify the Signs of Water-Damaged Drywall
The first step in how to fix water-damaged drywall is to be able to identify the symptoms. Homeowners must be able to spot the signs of wet drywall early on before the damage destroys structural materials or creates health concerns. Here are a few signs to watch out for.
- Staining or Discoloration. Yellow, brown, or dark patches.
- Soft or Crumbling Texture. Indicates deep moisture absorption.
- Bubbling or Peeling Paint. Moisture collects behind the surface.
- Mold growth or strong odors. Drywall is a porous material, and the damp interior of drywall is ideal for mold growth.
Stop the Source of the Water Before Making Repairs
After identifying wet drywall, many homeowners feel compelled to deal with the wet drywall without addressing the source of water intrusion itself. The leak will continue to allow moisture inside your house, and the water damage will only spread.
If plumbing is involved, homeowners should shut off the water supply while the leak is being fixed. You should also routinely inspect the attic, basement, and roof drainage systems after winter storms. Furthermore, ice dams may also develop on the roof, trapping snowmelt and leading to water leaking through the shingles.
Begin Drying the Drywall Thoroughly
Drywall must be dried thoroughly inside and out to stop water damage in its tracks. However, drywall is a porous material, which means it absorbs and holds moisture for long periods of time. This can lead to mold growth and structural decline.
Without professional-grade expertise and tools, drywall is likely to retain moisture beneath the surface even after homeowners attempt to dry the material. Moisture must be completely removed before patching or replacing drywall. Here are some more steps to properly dry walls before repairs begin.
- Increase airflow using fans and open windows.
- Run dehumidifiers to remove lingering moisture.
- Remove baseboards or trim to expose hidden damp areas.
Determine Whether the Drywall Needs Repair or Replacement
Depending on how much water is absorbed, how long it was exposed to moisture, and the type of materials involved, drywall may need to be replaced or repaired. You should evaluate the severity of the damage to assess whether replacement or repair is necessary. In any case, moisture levels must return to normal before repairing is even an option.
You can work with professionals to ensure that the assessment is properly performed or attempt to do it yourself. Below are some examples of how to evaluate drywall damage based on severity.
- Minor Damage. Drywall with only stains or slight softness may be repairable.
- Moderate Damage. Warping or extreme softness to the touch may require cutting out sections of drywall.
- Severe Damage. Crumbling drywall or mold growth requires removal and full replacement.
How to Fix Water-Damaged Drywall
If you determine that your drywall needs to be repaired, then the next step is understanding how to fix water-damaged drywall. There are many drywall restoration steps that are involved to ensure your walls are properly and safely repaired. However, the following are some of the most important in the process.
- Cut out damaged drywall and remove affected insulation.
- Install a new drywall patch and secure it properly.
- Apply joint compound, sand it until it’s smooth, and allow it to dry.
- Then, prime and repaint the drywall to match the surrounding area for a clean finish.
When to Call a Professional for Drywall Water Damage
Homeowners who attempt to address water damage on their own risk leaving hidden moisture or damage untreated. This can lead to even more costly repairs and potential health concerns.
Professional drywall water damage repair services address both the visible and hidden water damage along with the underlying issue that caused it. Certified professionals also follow industry standards to ensure safe drying, mold prevention, and proper reconstruction. While professional services can be contacted at any stage, expert help is especially necessary in the situations outlined below.
- Water has traveled inside wall cavities or multiple rooms.
- Mold or musty odors are present.
- Electrical systems behind the wall may be affected.
How to Prevent Future Drywall Water Damage
Unfortunately, wet drywall can often lead to costly services to restore your home. However, the best way to protect your home is to prevent drywall water damage entirely. You can do this through several means.
For one, you can maintain roof and gutter systems to avoid winter leaks. Homeowners can also insulate pipes and vulnerable wall areas. One of the most effective preventative measures is to proactively inspect plumbing fixtures routinely for early signs of leaks every new season.
Professional Water Damage Restoration Services for the Lehi Area
At ServiceMaster Restore by A3 Disaster Services, we have highly trained technicians and more than 60 years providing restoration services. Our team specializes in water damage recovery and is well-versed in drywall restoration. We are also local to the Lehi area, which allows us to provide 24/7 emergency services to local homeowners in need.
Water damage can be upsetting and expensive. That’s why we are committed to responding with compassion and proficiency. Contact ServiceMaster Restore by A3 Disaster Services today for expert water damage restoration help today.
