How To Tell If Your Drywall Is Water Damaged

If you have ever had a water leak in your home, you know the importance of checking for water damage. One area that is mainly ignored is the drywall. If water seeps behind the drywall, it can cause a lot of damage and be difficult to repair. This article will show you the signs of water-damaged drywall and teach you how to tell if drywall is water-damaged so that you can take appropriate action and prevent further damage.

Check for Mold Growth

If you see any mold growth on the drywall, this is one of the signs of water damage. Mold can proliferate in moist environments, so it is crucial to address any signs of mold as soon as possible.

If you have a pet or if anyone in your household smokes cigarettes, you may be more susceptible to mold growth. Pets and smokers are more likely to spread mold spores throughout the home.

If you see any evidence of mold, call a professional immediately for assistance. Do not try to deal with the mold yourself – it can be dangerous if done incorrectly.

Mold can cause hazardous health problems, so it is vital to take precautions when dealing with it. Be sure to put on a pair of gloves and a mask when working with mold.

Softened Drywall

Your drywall may be water damaged if it is soft to the touch. This is a clear indication of moisture present, and the drywall will need to be replaced.

If you aren't sure whether your drywall is water damaged, you can test it by inserting a screwdriver into the damaged area. If the screwdriver goes in easily, then it's likely you've got wet drywall, and you need to remove and replace it before the problem turns major.

Discoloration

Another common sign of water damage is discoloration. If you see a dark spot on the wall that wasn't there before, it's likely because of moisture. This discoloration can also indicate mold growth, so it's essential to address any signs of water damage as soon as possible.

If the area around your faucet or other plumbing fixtures looks wet for more than 12 hours after a leak has been fixed, there may be hidden damage behind the walls. You can test this by poking your finger into the drywall - if it feels spongy, then there's probably water trapped behind it, and you'll need to call in a water damage restoration company to take a look.

Water Stains

A water stain is another common sign of water damage. If you see a brown or yellow color on the wall, the water has likely been there for some time. You'll need to remove and replace the drywall to fix the issue.

The water stains could have resulted from a roof leak, a plumbing leak, or even condensation from your air conditioner. If you don't want your ceiling and walls to start rotting, it's essential to address the issue as soon as possible.

Look for Warping in the Drywall

If the drywall has swelled up or appears to be bowed, then your drywall is exposed to excess moisture and will need to be replaced. Replacing drywall is a relatively straightforward process and can be done by most do-it-yourselfers. However, if the damage is enormous, you may need to call a professional.

Check for Peeling Paint

Another sign that your drywall has been exposed to water is when the paint starts peeling off of the wall. This usually happens after the wallpaper or plaster underneath the paint begins to deteriorate. A burst pipe or a leaky roof are common sources of water damage that can cause this type of problem. The drywall's structural integrity may also be compromised, so it is crucial to address this issue as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

Water damage can be a costly and devastating problem, but it’s not always easy to tell if you have a water issue. There are signs that your drywall may be damaged by water. If you notice any of these warning signs, please don’t hesitate to contact a professional water damage restoration company like DRYOUTpro PLUS, INC.. We have the experience and expertise necessary to get your home back to its original condition as quickly and efficiently as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact DRYOUTpro PLUS, INC. today!