If the drywall only shows water spots but is not structurally compromised, they can be repaired by cutting the damaged part. When cutting around the damaged area, use a keyhole saw to cut the hole into a square or rectangular shape. Next, you can make a patch with another piece of drywall for repair. Apply the first coat of joint compound or “mud”.
The secret behind the mud is to cover the joint and use the mud to mix it in the repair with the rest of the wall. Spread the mud at a distance of 4 to 6 inches from the edge of the repair. Allow this layer to dry completely for 12 to 24 hours and then sand the ridges. Be sure to wear a dust mask. Then you need to repair the drywall damaged by water.
You can repair cracks or gaps less than a quarter of an inch wide with drywall mud alone. However, you should use drywall tape to help strengthen larger cracks up to an inch wide. Before starting the process of removing the water-damaged roof, be sure to wear protective equipment, such as safety goggles and a face mask. Start by removing damaged drywall by hand or with a hammer or wrecking bar. If the drywall only shows water spots and does not show structural damage, they can be saved by cutting only the damaged areas.
If water enters the wall from rain, a sprinkler that is too close to the house, or even from a leak in the pipes, you are likely to see stains of damage on the walls near the site of the intrusion. Depending on the type of damage and where water has entered, the drywall must be replaced in whole or in part. This is essential to prevent further water damage to the drywall ceiling; the water source must be stopped or the damage will continue. Water damage to the ceiling or wall, drywall or gypsum board can come from any number of sources inside or around your home. If the water source is contaminated by sewage or other toxic sources, the drywall in the damaged area is likely to be contaminated and must be disposed of.
Lift carpets for water and look for any other water stains, rusty screws and other signs of water or dampness throughout the house. For professional drywall water damage restoration and reconstruction, call your local PuroClean office. At the softer end, water can cause a simple water stain that can sometimes be treated with some drywall compound and paint. It is resistant, but water can damage its structural integrity and soften it and even cause collapses. If left unchecked, damp drywall can lead to dangerous collapse of ceilings, structural damage to adjacent areas, and dangerous mold and mildew damage. A certified water damage expert will have the experience and equipment needed to safely and effectively handle your water leak and repair water damage.
So, whether you're cleaning up a leak in your attic or a flood, you need to repair the water-damaged drywall as soon as possible. Repairing water damage to drywall includes removing water, discarding damaged items, and then cleaning up the mess. If the “water” incident in your home lasted only a short period of time and did not involve a lot of water, for example, a simple overflowing toilet or a leaking appliance that was quickly noticed and fixed, the water may not be absorbed into the drywall and will not need to be replaced if you handle it right away. Place buckets under any damaged roofing material and burst any bubbles with a screwdriver or screw in order to release any trapped water.
