Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage How to Tell if Drywall Has Water Damage

Water damage can affect any part of your home, including the drywall. Drywall is a common building material made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two sheets of paper. It is a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-install material, but it is also susceptible to water damage.

If you suspect that your drywall has been damaged by water, it is important to assess the damage and take steps to repair it as soon as possible. Here are some tips on how to tell if drywall has water damage and what to do about it:

How to Tell if Drywall Has Water Damage

• Look for discoloration. Water damage will often cause drywall to discolor. The discoloration can be anything from a light brown to a dark brown or even black.
• Feel for softness. Water-damaged drywall will often feel soft or mushy. This is because the water has caused the gypsum plaster to break down.
• Look for bubbling or peeling. Water damage can cause drywall to bubble or peel. This is because the water has caused the paper facing to separate from the gypsum plaster.
• Smell for mold or mildew. Water damage can create a damp environment that is ideal for mold and mildew growth. If you smell mold or mildew, it is likely that your drywall has been damaged by water.

What to Do About Water-Damaged Drywall

If you have discovered water-damaged drywall, it is important to take steps to repair it as soon as possible. Here are some tips on how to repair water-damaged drywall:

• Remove the damaged drywall. The first step is to remove the damaged drywall. Use a utility knife to cut around the damaged area and then carefully pry the drywall away from the wall.
• Dry out the area. Once the damaged drywall has been removed, it is important to dry out the area. You can do this by opening windows, using a fan, or using a dehumidifier.
• Replace the insulation. If the insulation behind the damaged drywall has been damaged, it will need to be replaced. Use new insulation that is the same type and thickness as the old insulation.
• Install new drywall. Once the area is dry, you can install new drywall. Use drywall that is the same thickness and type as the old drywall.
• Paint or wallpaper the new drywall. Once the new drywall has been installed, you can paint or wallpaper it to match the rest of the wall.

  If you are not comfortable repairing water-damaged drywall yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. A professional will have the experience and expertise to repair the drywall properly and safely.