Fixing drywall can be a headache for a homeowner. Though you don’t have to fix the damage yourself, you still have to worry about it reoccuring. Here are the top 5 common causes of drywall damage. Click here to learn about them so that you can be aware for the future.
One of the joys of homeownership is waking up to discover one of your walls has started to fall apart thanks to an unnoticed water leak.
Drywall damage is a problematic and often complicated to repair issue many homeowners are unprepared for. If you notice holes, cracks or buckling in your walls, you should absolutely call in an expert to inspect it and hopefully repair it.
But first, what are some of the things that can cause damage to your drywall? Keep reading for more info.
1. Plumbing Leaks
One of the leading causes of broken drywall is water damage.
If your plumbing is older or has been improperly installed you may run into some major issues further down the road. One of these is water damaged drywall.
If you notice your drywall bulging, immediately inspect and repair the damaged water line that may be hidden there. Then you will be able to replace or patch the drywall.
2. Poor Fastening
When your drywall was installed it was most likely attached via joint fastening tape.
As time goes on, this thick tape can loosen due to moisture or age, and start to buckle the drywall it’s holding together. This will show up very obviously in your walls.
Sometimes it becomes obvious that drywall was poorly installed by nails popping through the wall. This happens when drywall nails aren’t set firmly in the stud.
If you notice a nail popping through, don’t hammer it back in place. It’s best to remove it and find the stud yourself before nailing it into place.
3. Cracking
Cracks can happen in poorly installed drywall. It most often occurs in ceilings. The moment a crack is noticed, you should absolutely contact an expert to come and repair the damage.
Cracked drywall is a safety issue. If you notice cracking happening often, you should have your roof inspected. Sometimes it is also caused by your house settling.
Don’t ignore cracking. Cracks will only get bigger and can turn into a very expensive and troublesome repair.
4. Termite Damage
Termites are a major issue for lots of homeowners.
If you notice termite damage immediately call an exterminator. Termite damage can be identified by pinholes, a hollow sound when you strike the wall, damaged paint and wood damage.
5. Holes
Some of the most obvious drywall damage are holes.
Any type of hole in your wall is considered a structural issue. Holes can be caused by any number of things. Furniture bumping too hard against the wall, doors blowing open and not being stopped before hitting the wall. Sometimes kids and their toys can cause damage.
It’s just one of those things. If you notice your drywall has holes, make sure to get it patched and repaired as soon as possible.
This will keep the drywall from cracking further, which could then lead to a whole wall replacement.
Have Drywall Damage? Call In the Experts
When it comes to repairing drywall damage it’s always a good idea to have a professional help you.
Sometimes damage can become even more extensive if not fixed properly. Call us for an inspection and quote the next time you think your drywall needs to be repaired.