Should I Replace The Drywall In My House?

Drywall is one of the most common building materials used in home construction, for walls and ceilings. People don’t think of the sections of drywall that make up the skeleton of their house until it becomes a problem. Drywall problems are common where there is mold, ceiling leaks (water damage), or large/small holes in the drywall. If one or more of these problems exists, it’s more than likely time to replace your drywall.

When should you replace the drywall in your house, and what are some of the worst signs of damage to look out for?

Here is your quick but comprehensive guide to the best time to replace the drywall in your home.

What is Drywall?

Drywall is also called wallboard (and sometimes, rarely, sheetrock). While there are many things you can do with drywall in the construction industry – the construction of walls and ceiling panels is the most common use.

Drywall insulates parts of your home such as the living room or bedrooms, and also creates an important barrier between the house and everything else. When drywall gets damaged, your entire home lacks that layer of protection – and everything from dust to mold can get in or out.

If you have a drywall problem, health problems may arise if you do not fix the issue.

Signs You Should Replace Your Drywall

Drywall issues are important to fix, especially due to the associated health consequences that can arise from mold and mildew exposure. Drywall is important to replace if there is a hole of about three to five inches (and especially more).

Although small cracks in drywall aren’t usually a problem, small cracks that have become holes can create a weak spot in the wall. You wouldn’t want a weak spot in a space suit, and you definitely don’t want a weak spot in your drywall either.

Holes mean flow, and flow means exposure, and exposure is bad. Cracks don’t mean that there is mold there yet, but it means there is an easier way for mold to enter. Areas with high humidity can be at a higher risk for mold growth in drywall.

While potential health dangers are at the top of the list, there are many other good reasons why you should close up holes in drywall.

More Signs of Drywall Danger

There is potential danger anywhere that drywall begins to crack. More notable, there is a sure problem anywhere drywall starts to appear wet, develop an odor, or appear to stain.

Most often, problems start on the inside of the drywall. The best thing you can do for your health is to pull up the drywall and examine the problem.

Once you have found out what caused the damage to the drywall, fix it before you take steps to repair or replace the drywall. This is important because without fixing the issue that caused the damage, you will be stuck with the same problem.

Signs of Mold or Mildew in Drywall

Mold and mildew are specific problems, and tied to very specific health risks that can affect anyone in or near the home. Staining or spotting is common where mold is present, though sometimes a musty smell will be present where there are no visual signs.

Mold can be a major health risk, therefore, you must find and fix the problem immediately. Once you have found the cause of the mold behind your drywall, repair or replace the drywall.

Additional Reading: A Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home

Professional Drywall Replacement

DIY drywall replacement is not the best idea for people not familiar with what the job entails. Don’t risk the structural integrity of your home. Always call a local contractor for drywall replacement, to make sure that it’s done right. 

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Integrity Contracting, Inc is a general contractor providing services in Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa. We are a multifaceted home construction company that specializes in roofing, siding, painting, home remodeling, tree trimming, and tree removal. Integrity Contracting Inc. superior service offers the quality you deserve with the affordability you can respect. Let our experienced Omaha roofing, siding, seamless gutter, and home remodeling professionals tackle your next project so you can relax and have a stress-free experience. Contact Integrity Contractors Inc. today!