Have you noticed discoloration, texture changes, sagging, warping, or a musty odor in your home’s drywall?
If so, you’ve likely got a moisture problem, and you need to act fast to prevent mold, mildew, and other issues.
Here at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we’ve been providing Chicago residents with water damage repair and restoration services since 1996.
We’ve compiled our top tips for repairing water-damaged drywall in this blog.
Key Takeaways
- To fix water-damaged drywall, identify the source of the leak based on the signs present, and fix it by removing affected drywall, improving ventilation in the area, and contacting professionals for more assistance, if needed.
- Using waterproof paints and sealants can help protect drywall from future water damage.
- While minor drywall repairs may be a DIY job, we recommend hiring a professional like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore for more extensive damage.
Safety Considerations
- Turn off water sources and electricity in affected areas.
- Wear PPE like gloves, a mask, and safety glasses to protect yourself from mold and other dangers present in the area.
- Focus on effective cleanup and remediation, since the presence of mold (which can develop within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure) can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
- Consider calling a professional! Water damage can weaken your home’s structure, increasing the risk of collapse – unless you address it promptly. Hiring an experienced restoration team like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore is the best way to avoid long-term structural and safety issues.
Signs, Causes, and Fixes for Water Damage in Drywall
1. Leaking Pipes
Signs: Discolored patches, bulging walls, and musty odors.
Causes: Aging, corrosion, or poor installation.
Fixes:
- Locate and repair the leak promptly.
- Replace damaged drywall.
- Consider insulating pipes to prevent future leaks.
2. Roof Leaks
Signs: Water stains on ceilings and upper walls.
Causes: Damaged shingles, flashing, or roof vents.
Fixes:
- Repair or replace damaged roofing materials.
- Ensure proper sealing around roof components.
- Dry and replace affected drywall as needed.
3. Faulty or Clogged Gutters
Signs: Water stains near the edge of walls or foundation.
Causes: Accumulation of leaves or debris in gutters.
Fixes:
- Regularly clean and maintain gutters to ensure proper water flow away from the house.
- Check exterior walls and repair any drywall damage.
4. Foundation Issues
Signs: Cracks in walls, uneven floors, and damp basements.
Causes: Poor drainage or settling soil.
Fixes:
- Improve drainage around the foundation.
- Repair cracks and replace any affected drywall.
- If the foundation has serious problems, hire a pro like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore for a more comprehensive evaluation.
5. Condensation
Signs: Water beads on walls, especially in bathrooms or kitchens.
Causes: Excess moisture in the air with inadequate ventilation.
Fixes:
- Open windows and use fans and dehumidifiers to increase ventilation and decrease humidity.
- Replace damaged drywall.
- Insulate walls to reduce temperature differences and minimize condensation.
6. Appliance Leaks
Signs: Pooling water around specific appliances.
Causes: Faulty hookup or aging appliances.
Fixes:
- Inspect and repair appliance connections or replace aging appliances.
- Remove and repair damaged drywall where necessary.
7. Flooding
Signs: Extensive water damage on lower levels.
Causes: Natural disasters or broken pipes.
Fixes:
- Quickly remove water and dry the area using fans and dehumidifiers.
- Remove saturated drywall and consult with professionals for more significant repairs.
8. Air Conditioning and HVAC Issues
Signs: Damp patches near AC units or vents.
Causes: Blocked drains or refrigerant leaks.
Fixes:
- Regularly clean drainage lines.
- Service HVAC units.
- Replace compromised drywall.
9. Cracks in Exterior Walls
Signs: Visible cracks and water entry points.
Causes: Structural movement or impact damage.
Fixes:
- Seal cracks with appropriate sealants.
- Repair wall surfaces.
- Replace damaged interior drywall.
10. Poor Waterproofing or Sealing
Signs: Water intrusion during wet weather.
Causes: Worn-out seals or inadequate waterproofing measures.
Fixes:
- Reapply waterproofing coatings and replace seals.
- Ensure all exterior joints are well-sealed and address any interior damage to drywall.
When to Call a Professional Restoration Company
When you’re facing severe water damage, it’s essential to know when to call in a pro, like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore.
Here are some times you definitely should not attempt to DIY water damage repair:
- You have mold or mildew. You should contact a restoration company if you have a significant mold problem. This is important because only the pros have the equipment and products needed to remediate mold entirely.
- The house is unsafe. If structural damage may compromise your home’s safety or the water damage has created electrical hazards, it’s smart to call the pros immediately.
Let us Help Restore Your Water-Damaged Drywall in Chicago
Regardless of what caused your water-damaged drywall, failing to repair it quickly can be a major issue for your home.
Fortunately, our team is here to help.
Providing comprehensive water damage repair and restoration services across the Chicago area and its suburbs, we’ll identify the root of the problem and restore your home to its pre-damage condition.
Ready to learn more about our drywall repair services and how we can help you? Contact us today.
FAQs
What is the cost to repair water damage on drywall?
The cost to repair water damage on drywall can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage and the area affected.
On average, minor repairs can cost a few hundred to less than a thousand dollars, while more extensive damage that requires replacing large sections of drywall can cost significantly more.
How do I prevent water damage on a drywall?
Preventing water damage to drywall involves a few proactive steps.
First, it’s critical to ensure that your plumbing is well-maintained and free of leaks.
It’s also essential to check for and fix any roof leaks promptly.
Finally, proper exterior waterproofing and sealing and effective drainage systems around your home can help protect drywall from water exposure.
Does drywall need to be replaced after water damage?
In many cases, drywall affected by water damage may need to be replaced, particularly if it has absorbed significant water or shows signs of mold growth.
If the damage is superficial and the drywall is structurally sound, drying it out and treating it with a mold-killing solution may be adequate.
That said, replacement is usually the best long-term solution.
Can I just paint over water damaged drywall?
We don’t recommend it.
Usually, painting over damaged drywall only improves its surface appearance—it does nothing to treat underlying issues.
It’s essential to ensure that the drywall is completely dry and any mold has been treated before applying a new coat of paint.
Even then, we recommend using a stain-blocking primer first to prevent water stains from seeping through the new paint.
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