17 Jul Fix Drywall Water Damage With These Tips

When drywall is water damaged, it should be repaired as soon as possible. Many things cause water damage like flooding due to wet weather, pipes that have become corroded, leaky pipes, or pipes that have burst. Leaving drywall in its damaged state can create more serious problems later, like mold formation.

Protective Clothing Is Advisable

Wearing protective eye wear, clothing to cover arms and legs and a respiration mask are good safety rules to follow when working with drywall. Once safety clothing and accessories are on, find where the drywall has become wet, and remove the wet sections by cutting. Next, work to create good air circulation in the area by using large, industrial type fans that can either be bought or rented. After using fans, and a dehumidifier if one is available, check the area occasionally to make sure that it is drying.

Tips For Patching Drywall Once The Area Is Dry

Once the area is completely dry, replace drywall that was removed by patching it with a drywall patch. A water proof or water-resistant patch is always recommended. For a large water damaged area, you may want to use a wooden board for backing.

Nail the patch into place. If a backing board is used, nail it to the backing board. Then use joint compound and spread that over all edges, using a putty knife. Once putty is dry, sand it to make a smooth, even surface. Use drywall tape on any seams where the drywall meets the wall that is already in place. If everything looks smooth, paint over the repairs that were made.

Protect The Home To Enjoy It For Life

A home is one of the biggest investments a person will ever make in their lifetime. Knowing how to repair things that are within one’s ability to repair is always helpful. This gives homeowners a great feeling of confidence and peace of mind knowing how to protect that important investment.

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