Damaged drywall? Here are the top 5 culprits

Nov 25, 2020
Damaged drywall? Here are the top 5 culprits

Often chosen by contractors and homeowners for its durability, clean look, and ease of installation, drywall is by no means impervious. Unfortunately, damaged walls and ceilings can appear for any number of reasons, which is why it’s important to properly diagnose the issue before any repairs are considered.

To that end, here are the top five causes of drywall damage and how to spot them.

1. Water damage

For better or worse, we’re constantly surrounded by water, and our homes are no exception. That’s why many of the most common forms of drywall damage are related in some way to an excess of moisture.

Unfortunately, these are also some of the most expensive repairs to make, since there is typically a larger issue in play. Whether it’s a leaky pipe or a damaged roof, you should avoid fixing the drywall until the root of the problem is addressed.

If you notice your drywall has a wet spot or is beginning to bulge, have a professional come out and inspect it right away before any more damage is done.

2. Accidental impacts

We get it. Doorknobs are going to get slammed into the wall. Mistakes are going to be made while moving heavy furniture. Kids are going to take their play a little too far. No matter how many times you say, “be careful,” accidents are still bound to happen.

Whether it’s a small puncture or a hole so large you can stick your hand through, you’re going to want to get it patched up as soon as possible. Larger holes are obviously a structural concern, but even the little ones can lead to further cracking and peeling if left untouched.

Fortunately, with the right tools, this is something you can largely take care of on your own. Not sure where to start? Read our guide on how to repair cracks or holes in drywall.

3. Faulty installation

There’s a very good reason “you get what you pay for” is such a popular adage. If the drywall in your house was installed correctly, it should last for years and years to come. If not, well, there are a number of things that could go wrong.

While mostly preventable, the first thing you might notice is nail or screw pops. Whether it’s a result of missed studs, using too many fasteners, or warped materials due to—you guessed it—too much moisture, it’s a noticeable eyesore that can lead to further popping if left unaddressed.

Another common issue can be attributed to the use of poor-quality joint fastening tape. As time goes on, this thick tape can begin to lose its hold as a result of age or moisture, causing a buckling effect that can ripple your drywall like dominoes.

There’s no shortage of other drywall installation mistakes, but you probably get the idea. If you happen to notice any of these irregularities, hire a true professional to come and get the job done right. You’ll be glad you did.

4. Foundation settling

Foundations are, at their core, meant to be the solid rock on which your house is built. That said, sometimes even the sturdiest of rocks can shift a bit over time. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it can cause significant cracks, particularly on the ceiling and near corners.

Cracks will only get bigger with time, so the moment you notice one, you should do something to fix it. Not only are they unsightly, but they can grow into a serious safety concern and costly repair if left alone.

5. Termite infestation

As the bane of many homeowners’ existence, termites—if left unchecked—can cause a considerable amount of damage to more than just the wooden structure of your home. Termites are known to dig into drywall surfaces, which often leaves visible pinholes. If you notice any, give the wall a few taps and listen for a hollow sound.

Other telltale signs of termites may include baseboard deterioration, bubbling paint, and other damaged wood. Before you do anything to fix these areas, have an exterminator come in and get rid of these pests once and for all.

Repair your damaged drywall with help from Al’s Taping Tools

If you intend to fix the damaged areas yourself, you’re going to need the right tools at your disposal. Shop our selection of top-quality compressors, sprayers, and automatic taping tools that the professionals trust to get the job done right.

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