Whether you are dealing with a minor plumbing leak or significant flooding after a storm, moisture exposure has long-lasting effects on drywall. Generally, the best way to prevent further damage is to replace the impacted section, as trying to dry or treat the material can be costly and ineffective. Here's a closer look at the risks involved with wet sheetrock. 

How Does Water Damage Affect Drywall?

1. Creates Cracks

Sheetrock is an absorbent material, and when water saturates the wall, it expands. The swelling causes the individual boards to move and stresses the joint tape, leading to separation. As a result, the lines between sections of the wall become visible, creating unsightly openings in the home. In severe cases, the surface of the wall may crack, which will expand over time.

With prompt moisture treatment, you can usually patch the surface if the boards remain flat. However, this is uncommon, and it is usually easier to replace the drywall.

2. Contributes to Mold Growth

For mold to develop, it requires a dark environment and steady supply of moisture. The space behind your walls offers both of these elements when you are dealing with water damage, allowing small mold spores to grow. This creates an unattractive mess that can even put your family at risk for potentially serious health issues.

Generally, you can identify this problem if you notice a musty odor or see black and green splotches on the wall. However, if it occurs on the interior of the sheetrock, you cannot see it. As such, you should remove moist sections immediately to prevent growth.

3. Decreases Structural Integrity

When your walls are exposed to a steady supply of moisture, the swelling process can become permanent. If this happens, the drywall will pull away from the screws that secure it to the home's frame. The edges may even begin to curl and raise. Along with an uneven surface, an unattached board could fall, posing a safety hazard to anyone nearby. 

If you are dealing with wet drywall and need prompt replacement, contact Speedy Patch Drywall Repair in Brentwood, TN. This local, family-owned business proudly serves homeowners throughout the Greater Nashville area. From repairs to replacements, they are committed to customer satisfaction. Review examples of their drywall and mudding work online, and call (615) 426-7603 to request an estimate.