There are several signs that drywall needs repair, from large holes to scuffed drywall. These problems can eventually lead to structural damage if left untreated. However, it is important to hire a professional only if you suspect a serious problem. Listed below are some signs that drywall repair Louisville is needed. You may need drywall repair if these signs persist.
Damaged drywall can lead to structural damage.
While most drywall cracks and holes are minor and may not need repair, large cracks and holes can indicate more significant structural damage. Small cracks and holes are easy to fix and may be cosmetic, but ignoring them can weaken your home and cause additional damage. Even hairline cracks and holes should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Depending on the size of the hole, a repair may require replacing the entire wall or ceiling.
If you notice discoloration on your drywall, there’s likely a water leak behind the walls. Please do not attempt to repair this yourself, as it will only spread the damage. Instead, contact a professional repair service to find the leak and repair the drywall. They can also replace the damaged drywall if necessary. In some cases, water damage may require a full replacement. Again, call a professional repair service to help you prevent further structural damage.
Large holes in a wall
A large hole in a wall may require a new piece of drywall. In this case, you will need to trace around the hole with joint tape and apply joint compound. After the drywall has dried, you will need to cover it with another coat. If the hole is small, a drywall compound can be used to patch it. However, if the hole is larger than 6 inches, you must hire a professional drywall repair company.
Before you begin patching a hole in a wall:
- Check for wiring or pipes. If you find any, use a flashlight to peek inside.
- Use a drywall knife to enlarge the hole horizontally if you cannot find any.
- Do not cut the hole any deeper than an inch.
- Wear safety goggles and gloves to avoid any further injuries. Once the drywall patching is complete, you can paint and decorate the wall.
Scuffed drywall
The first step in repairing scuffed drywall is determining the damage’s extent. If the scuff is shallow, you can usually clean it with a mild cleaning solution. However, you should avoid using harsh cleaning agents because they may damage the paint or wall. Scuffed drywall repair may also require replacing the entire wall or adding new sheets. Professional drywall repair services have the experience to match paint colors and textures and can save you from costly mistakes.
A simple way to fix scuffed drywall is to patch it. Most drywall damage is small, involving indentations, scrapes, and holes. You can use a smoothing tool to patch these small holes. For larger holes, you can also use interior paint to cover them. Then, you can apply a new coat of paint and make your drywall look new.
Loose tape
Using drywall paper to patch a crack is a good DIY project. It’s not too complicated, and it can save you money. If you have loose drywall tape, retaping the joint will ensure the compound stays in place. Be sure to apply compound to one side only – the opposite side will mar the tape. Use a fine-grit sanding sponge to smooth the corners, but don’t gouge them.
Besides water leaking through a wall, another common cause of loose drywall tape is improper installation. Therefore, it’s important to avoid areas where drywall tape may come loose, like in a bathroom or on the walls. In most cases, the problem will be small and easy to repair. However, if you’re unsure how to fix a loose drywall tape issue, you can hire a professional drywall repair company.
Termites
If you have a home with drywall, you’re probably familiar with the damage termites can cause. Termites attack anything made from cellulose, including paper and wood in drywall. As a result, a termite infestation can damage structural elements of a home, including ceiling joists, wall studs, and support beams. In severe cases, termites can even render a house unlivable.
Check for the presence of broken wings. Termites often excrete frass on the surface of the wood. You may even find termite cartons in the wood. Termites build these tubes from dirt and fecal matter. These tubes shelter them and serve as a pathway to food sources. A broken wing can also indicate a termite infestation. If you notice these signs, you may want to get your home inspected.
Water damage
There are many instances in which you need to have drywall repaired after a water damage incident, including floods, hurricanes, burst pipes, and condensation from air conditioners. In addition, standing pools of water in the home can cause mold and mildew problems. While you should immediately wipe up water damage, if the drywall is still soft, you will need to call in professionals. If the water damage results from a plumbing issue, call a plumber or contractor.
While water damage can cause stains and mold, you can still paint it. It is the quickest and least expensive way to repair water-damaged drywall, but you will have to spend extra time and money on priming and painting. However, it is important to consider the water damage repair cost before tackling the project. A professional can help you determine which option is best for your situation.
