Does drywall need to be replaced after water damage?

Water damage is often an indicator that drywall needs to be replaced. However, detecting water-damaged drywall isn't always easy.

Does drywall need to be replaced after water damage?

Water damage is often an indicator that drywall needs to be replaced. However, detecting water-damaged drywall isn't always easy. With that said, there are a few things you can consider to determine if your drywall needs quick drying or a total replacement. In general, there is a need to replace drywall damaged by water.

Only in case of minor damage and without signs of swelling, you can allow it to dry. The water will quickly penetrate the drywall and, over time, cause it to lose its structural integrity, show stains, signs of swelling, mold growth and deformation. Keep in mind that it may take a while before the damage is visible. As a leading water damage repair company in San Diego, Pacific Flood Restoration can clean or replace water-damaged drywall from start to finish.

For starters, any water damage caused by wastewater or outdoor flooding almost always requires replacement. One of the most common reasons I've seen people have to replace or repair drywall is because of water damage. Leaks, broken pipes, floods, and other weather conditions can cause water to stagnate and be damaged. A water damage contractor is responsible for the recovery, including drying procedures, disassembly of the material, and complete restoration.

When a home suffers water damage, one of the most common problems that result is damage to drywall. In some cases, drywall can dry quickly before water damage spreads or gets too damaged. While small amounts of water damage may not seem like a problem at first, mold and mildew can grow quickly in damp areas of drywall. Water damage to the ceiling or wall, drywall, or gypsum board can come from a variety of sources in or around the home.

The faster you remove water and dry the drywall, the less likely it is to be permanently damaged. It's tough, but water can damage its structural integrity and soften it, and even cause collapses. If the water source is contaminated by wastewater or other toxic sources, the drywall in the damaged area is likely to be contaminated and must be removed. If damp drywall is not controlled, dangerous ceiling collapses, structural damage to adjacent areas, and dangerous mold and mildew damage can occur.

As the founder of ServiceMaster by Zaba in Chicago, Illinois, Diana is IICRC certified in repairing fire and water damage. Even in a bathroom built to withstand water, it can cause a lot of damage if the water goes below the ground. Lift carpets for water and look for any other water stains, rusty screws, and other signs of water or moisture throughout the house.

Julianne Huval
Julianne Huval

Hardcore beer enthusiast. Freelance beer geek. Extreme social media aficionado. Avid music practitioner. Infuriatingly humble internet evangelist. Tea scholar.

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