Drywall Problem 2: Dents, Dings, and Holes
Let’s face it: It doesn’t take much to dent drywall. A doorknob, a chair, or even a playful pet can leave an impression on drywall. Over time, these small blemishes can make your walls look tired and unkempt. Let’s not even get into the larger holes like from removing wall-mounted items such as TVs, mirrors, or shelves.
Small dents are easy enough to fill with spackling paste and paint over. For medium holes, you’ll need to use a mesh patch and joint compound to rebuild the surface. Larger holes that break through the insulation require even more work and expertise.
Drywall Problem 3: Water Damage and Stains
Drywall does NOT like water. It’s in the name: DRYwall. Whether from a roof leak, a burst pipe, or even high humidity, moisture can cause the paper facing to bubble, discolor, and eventually crumble. Plus, wet drywall can nurture mold growth.
Most important is getting to the root of the moisture and fixing it (whether that’s bad drainage, leaking plumbing, etc.). Once that’s handled, any affected drywall should be cut out and replaced. Simply painting over mold-infested drywall is NOT a solution.
Proper drywall repair involves replacing the soaked section, re-taping the seams, and finishing it to blend perfectly with the rest of the wall. It’s not a place to cut corners, and it’s something that professional handymen handle in a fraction of the time it takes DIYers.
Drywall Problem 4: Nail Pops
Drywall is typically nailed onto the wooden studs, but those studs expand and contract as temperature and humidity fluctuates. Eventually, nails push slightly out of the service. That’s when you might notice tiny circles or bumps on your drywall.
This is something you overlook until you see it… then you can’t unsee it. Simply hammering the nail back in won’t solve the problem. The right way is to remove the popped fastener, secure a new screw nearby to hold the drywall tight, and then patch and paint the area.
Drywall Problem 5: Bubbling or Peeling Tape
Drywall tape is what hides seams and gives walls that smooth and continuous look. If applied incorrectly or if the tape is exposed to moisture, then you might notice the tape bubble, peel, or crack away. This looks bad AND leaves the surface vulnerable to further damage.
Unfortunately, tape problems can’t just be glued back down. This is why it’s always advisable to leave installations and replacements to trained and experienced handymen. Pros like Mr. Handyman get the job done right the first time around – and back the workmanship with a 1-year guarantee!
