When that doorknob punches through your wall or mysterious cracks start appearing on your ceiling, don’t panic. Understanding common drywall problems and their solutions can save you money and help you decide whether to DIY or call a professional. Let’s explore the five most common drywall issues homeowners face.
1. Doorknob Holes and Impact Damage
We’ve all been there – a doorknob meets drywall, and suddenly you’re staring at an unsightly hole. These impact holes, ranging from doorknob dents to furniture bumps, are the most common drywall damage.
The professional repair process involves more than just spackling compound. Proper repair includes installing backing support, applying multiple compound layers, and carefully matching your wall’s texture. While DIY kits exist, professionals prevent the dreaded “patched” look that often reveals repairs.
2. Water Damage: The Sneaky Destroyer
Water damage starts subtly – perhaps a slight brown stain or bubbling paint. But behind that innocent-looking stain, serious damage could be lurking. Water-damaged drywall becomes a perfect breeding ground for mold and can compromise your wall’s structural integrity.
Quick action saves money – that small water stain today could become a major renovation project tomorrow. Professionals don’t just replace drywall; they find the water source, prevent future damage, and ensure no mold remains.
3. Cracks: More Than Just Surface Problems
Not all drywall cracks are created equal. Those hairline cracks above your doorway might indicate normal house settling, but jagged cracks or ones wider than 1/8 inch could signal structural issues.
Professionals assess crack patterns to determine causes. Diagonal cracks often indicate foundation issues, while straight cracks might result from normal settling. Simple crack filling isn’t always enough – proper repair might require joint tape and multiple compound layers to prevent reoccurrence.
4. Nail Pops: Those Annoying Little Bumps
Those small circular bumps on your wall, often accompanied by cracking paint, are nail pops. They occur when house settling or temperature changes cause nails to push through drywall surface. While looking minor, they can worsen over time and often appear in groups.
The repair involves more than pushing nails back in – professionals add new screws, remove old nails, and refinish the surface to prevent future problems.
5. Corner Bead Damage
Those metal or plastic strips protecting your wall corners take a beating. When damaged, they leave walls vulnerable and create unsightly appearance.
Professional repair involves removing damaged sections, installing new corner bead, and carefully blending the repair with existing walls. This isn’t just cosmetic – proper corner bead installation protects your walls from future damage.
The Honey Do Difference
While many home improvement stores sell DIY drywall repair products, professional repairs offer several advantages:
Texture Matching: Professionals use techniques and tools to match your existing wall texture perfectly. That orange-peel, knockdown, or smooth finish won’t show patches or repairs.
Proper Materials: Professionals use setting-type compounds for initial repairs and ready-mix for finishing, ensuring stronger, longer-lasting repairs than all-purpose DIY products provide.
Complete Solutions: They address underlying causes, not just surface damage. This prevents recurring problems and saves money long-term.
When to DIY vs. When to Call Honey Do
Small nail holes from pictures? Go ahead and DIY. But consider professional help for:
– Holes larger than 6 inches
– Any water damage
– Cracks wider than 1/8 inch
– Multiple nail pops
– Corner bead damage
Cost-Saving Tips
Bundle repairs together – most professionals offer discounts for multiple repairs during one visit. Address problems promptly before they worsen. And always fix water damage immediately – it’s the one drywall problem that never improves with time.
Remember: Quality drywall repair is an art combining proper techniques, materials, and experience. While professional repair might cost more initially, it prevents costly repatching of failed DIY attempts and ensures your walls look seamless.
Need drywall repair? Contact The Honey Do Service for an estimate today.