Common Drywall Problems: Tips and Prevention Methods

Drywall is generally very easy to install and maintain. Its hassle-free installation is one of the reasons it is so popular. However, even with such a relatively easy material, things can sometimes go wrong. Before you start on your next drywalling project, first take note of these common drywall problems and our simple, expert tips to help you manage them.

How To Prevent a Bad Drywall Repair Job: Tips for Success

Drywall repair can be a finicky and frustrating job. Be sure that you have all the right tools, and keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use enough joint compound: Joint compound is the material used to seal up the gaps between drywall sheets. If you don’t use enough of it, you may end up with a bumpy and uneven surface. Be sure to use enough – you can always scrape and sand the excess away later.

• Use drywall tape: Drywall tape is very important because it reinforces the seams between drywall panels, preventing them from peeling and cracking later on. Some DIY installers try to skip the tape, but this will almost always cause problems later on.

• Sand the surface carefully: When sanding, remember that the objective is to finish thoroughly and make sure that the surface blends and shows no sign of your repair. If you don’t sand properly, you could be left with obvious rough patches and uneven seams. If you sand too much, on the other hand, you could end up with a depression in the repair area, which can be quite difficult to cover up.

• Paint the surface to match: When painting the repaired spot, make absolutely sure that the new paint matches the existing color. Otherwise, you will end up with an obvious, unsightly patch.

Why You Should Use a Professional for Proper Drywall Installation

Although you can do your drywall repair yourself, it is a job best left to a professional. Many of the common problems with drywall can be a result of improper installation. If certain issues keep arising, no matter how often you take steps to repair them, it is best to seek the help of a professional drywall installer, who can track down the source of the problem and repair or reinstall the drywall so the problems are eliminated permanently.

What Are the Problems With Drywall? Common Issues Explained

Some of the most common problems that can arise with drywall are:

• Holes: Small holes in the drywall are usually a result of objects such as doorknobs or furniture bumping against the drywall. Larger holes and broken sections can also occur sometimes – accidents can happen at any time. These are fairly easy to repair with a little tape and joint compound – depending on the seriousness of the damage.

• Split or lifted drywall tape: Drywall tape can lift, loosen, or split, especially if it has not been installed properly. This can usually be fixed quite easily by removing the broken tape, applying some joint compound, and then replacing the tape.

• Cracks: These can often develop at the joints between two drywall sheets. To fill the crack thoroughly, you would need to first patch it with fiberglass mesh tape, and then cover it up with joint compound.

• Water damage: Drywall is susceptible to water damage. Once the moisture sets in, mold and mildew can quickly develop, and these present several health risks. When you spot water damage, the best thing to do is remove and replace the affected section as soon as possible.

How To Prevent Drywall Problems: Best Practices for Long-Term Quality

The best way to prevent drywall problems is through proper installation. As long as drywall panels are secure to the studs correctly – with screws, not nails – joints are not aligned with doors and window frames, and surrounding leaks that could lead to water damage have been checked and repaired, your drywall should hold up beautifully for a very long time. To prevent damage after installation, take the same care with your drywall as you would with parts of your home or commercial building. Take care to protect the wall against doorknobs and other small, hard objects that can easily create holes. Handle and place furniture with care to ensure that there is a minimal risk of them bumping against the wall and causing cracks or punctures.

You can also avoid common drywall problems by selecting materials of the highest quality, such as the products offered by Mada Gypsum. We manufacture a variety of construction solutions, including gypsum plasterboard, finishing materials, tiles, metal profiles, and accessories. If you are looking to incorporate these materials into your construction projects, be sure to consider our solutions. Contact us for more information.