From minor dents and cracks to extensive holes, you will likely deal with a host of drywall problems over time. Fixing an issue as soon as you notice it will save you major expenses and headaches (and from staring at an ugly hole in the wall for weeks or more). Learn more about the reasons you shouldn’t delay drywall repair.

What Happens If You Don't Repair Drywall Immediately?

Imagine going home after a busy day at work and noticing a nail popping out of your drywall. You might think the damage is harmless, so you delay the repair. Chances are the issue will slip your mind because of hundreds of other things on your plate. Unfortunately, the seemingly harmless damage you overlook can cause structural problems.

Failing to repair your drywall at the early signs of trouble can quickly escalate to a huge mess. Let’s discover what happens when you ignore signs of drywall problems.

Repairs Get More Extensive

Drywall damage won’t fix itself when you leave it be. A minor issue will only get extensive and more costly to fix over time. Drywall repair contractors often base the total repair cost on the extent of the damage or the hours they spend on the job. For example, they may charge you less than a hundred bucks to patch a small hole and a few hundred dollars to fix large cracks.

Major Drywall Problems Can Become a Safety Risk

Safety should always be a priority at home or in the office. Damaged drywall can pose a serious threat to the safety of occupants, so you must address any issue immediately. Huge cracks and holes in the drywall may cause the wall to collapse, putting everyone in danger when they stay anywhere near the wall.

Damaged Drywall Isn’t Aesthetically Pleasing

Drywall damage, whether a tiny crack or a huge hole, can spoil a beautiful wall. Some often paint over the damage, especially when it is minor. But paint cannot hide every wall imperfection. You’ll need to fix the problem for a flawless drywall.

It Can Lower Your Property’s Value

A damaged drywall may decrease the value of a property. If you plan to sell your home, consider addressing all issues beforehand, even if it’s just a tiny drywall crack. A flawless property is likely to attract buyers, making it easier to sell.

Exploring the Financial Costs Associated With Delaying Repairs

Fixing minor drywall damage, such as small dents and holes, won’t break the bank. However, when the problem worsens because you delay repair, you will likely need to pay more. The average drywall repair rate is around $100 per hour or $80 per square foot. However, your total repair bill may be higher or lower depending on how long the drywall patch or repair takes, where you’re located, and other factors.

Delaying repairs may also render the drywall unfixable, leaving you with no other option but to replace it. Drywall replacement often costs more than repair, as you’ll have to pay for new materials and the removal of the existing wall. It may cost you at least a thousand bucks for the service.

What Causes Drywall Damage?

Drywall repair can get expensive. To protect your drywall from damage and your pocket from costly drywall repair and replacement services, you must first learn what causes drywall problems.

Poor Installation

Poor installation causes two common drywall problems: popping nails and screws and peeling tapes. Screws or nails are used to fasten the drywall to the underlying structure. If the drywall is not installed properly, it can shift over time and cause the nails to pop out. The same thing can happen with the tape lines. The tape may peel off if the drywall loosens or buckles due to improper installation.

Everyday Wear and Tear

Like other surfaces in your home, drywalls experience wear and tear from everyday activities. For example, sitting on a chair against a drywall can result in scuffs and scratches on the wall's surface. Exposure to sunlight can cause drywall surfaces to develop uneven discoloration. Active kids and pets playing in the space can accidentally cause dents and dings on the drywall.

Water Intrusion

As a porous material, drywall is highly susceptible to water damage. Even if you waterproof the material, it will not be 100% water-resistant. When water seeps into the drywall, the material will likely warp, swell, and sag. Mold and mildew may also start to grow.

Termite Infestation

Termite infestation is a problem not just with wooden walls. Drywall contains cellulose, which termites love. If these destructive insects find their way inside your home, they can burrow through the drywall and create tunnels. The drywall will eventually crumble and need replacing.

Humidity

Moisture is bad for any drywall. Drywall can lose its structural integrity and become soft and weak when your home’s humidity level increases beyond what the material can handle, which is over 17%. Mold can also start to grow. When the drywall is exposed to too much moisture, it will need a replacement rather than repair.

Tips for Avoiding Further Damage to Drywall

Here are a few ways to minimize the damage to your drywall:

Apply Waterproofing Primer

Drywall is made from highly absorbent materials. Consider applying waterproofing primer if you plan to install it in humid areas of your home, like laundry rooms and the basement. These products may not make your drywall completely waterproof, but they can minimize the damaging effect of moisture and water on drywall.

Regularly Inspect Your Plumbing System for Leaks

Plumbing systems run through your ceiling and walls. It’s crucial to inspect this system regularly since the pipes are hidden. Regular plumbing will allow you to discover and fix leaks early on, preventing water from seeping into the drywall and causing any damage.

Use Door Stoppers

The constant opening and closing of doors can impact and damage your drywall. Door stoppers can help minimize the damage, as these hardware items are designed to prevent doors from swinging too far and damaging the wall.

Don’t Paint Over a Damaged Drywall

Painting over damaged drywall may seem like an easy way to make your wall immaculate again. However, painting the wall without addressing the underlying issue will shorten the paint’s lifespan. You’ll likely need to repaint it sooner. Even worse, the damage can cause further issues.

How to Find a Reliable Professional for Drywall Repairs

When you search for “drywall repair near me,” you’ll easily find many contractors offering the service. However, remember that they have their differences when it comes to workmanship. If you want your damaged drywall to return to its original state, find and hire a qualified professional. Here are a few variables to consider to help you identify which contractor to hire.

• Experience: Experienced contractors likely have exceptional repair skills and knowledge that will guarantee quality repair work.

• References and Portfolio: You can ask previous clients about their experience hiring the contractor. Also, ask the contractor for photos of their completed projects. A portfolio can give you insight into what to expect from the service.

• Pricing: The cheapest isn't always the most cost-effective, while the most expensive isn't always the best. Consider getting quotes from multiple established and reputable contractors. This will enable you to compare them and find the best deal.

• Scope of work: Ask the contractor what their drywall repair service includes. Will they take care of the cleanup after the project? Can they also paint the wall?

Get Top-Notch Drywall Repair From Anderson Painting

If you need dependable drywall repair experts in Raleigh or Wilmington, NC, you can count on Anderson Painting. We have skilled and experienced carpenters who can guarantee quality drywall repair work at a reasonable price. We also offer painting services if you want new paint on your repaired drywall.

Feel free to browse our resources to learn how to repair drywall, or contact our experts today to schedule a service.