Among the most common DIY home projects, drywall tops the list with its ease of installation. Nonetheless, its delicate nature makes it susceptible to destruction through inappropriate handling or other natural causes such as rain. Are you wondering whether your newly installed drywall can get rained on and the resultant effects? Scroll down.
Yes, in cases where there are leaks in the roof, the drywall on the ceilings or walls can get rained on easily. Much of this, however, depends on the position of the drywall in the house and its exposure to the outside environment.
We will examine what happens when drywall gets wet and see whether this material is waterproof. There is more to expect in this article, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on the unparalleled expert advice contained herein. Keep reading.
The Working Mechanisms Of Drywalls
Drywalls comprise specialized panel boards comprised of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. Other drywalls consist of wool felt paper or plaster. Some of the materials used when making drywall include:
- Plasticizer
- Foaming agent
- Starch
- Fiber
- Fire/mold-resistant materials
Using this material for your home is cheap when purchasing and maintenance costs. Its durability and simple installation make it a perfect match for your home project. The material is common in most home and office ceilings and walls today.
What Happens If Drywall Gets Wet?
Having looked at the materials it is made of, you can already guess the serious implications of water on drywall. This building material is vulnerable to water exposure, and that is why architects take much caution when installing them in high moisture areas.
When drywall gets wet, the following are likely to occur:
- Stains
- Swells
- Disintegration
- Mold growth
However, you should note that drywalls contain large amounts of water in crystalline form. The role of these crystalline water molecules is to give them the fire-resistance property.
Wet drywall will also lose its structural integrity by becoming weak and soft. Although drywalls comprise sturdy materials, exposure to water for a long can be detrimental to them. You will see some ceiling drywalls crumbling down due to continuous leaks on the roof.
Depending on the magnitude of the wetness, you might be able to save your drywall or not. Those damaged by moisture can only take simple steps to repair, whereas those damaged by extreme rain may need total replacement.
How To Determine the Extent of Drywall Damage?
It is always advisable to check your drywall regularly. Doing this will help you spot any area of concern and act on it before things turn out for the worst. Here are some of the steps you can take:
- Using a non-penetrating moisture meter to test the wall for moisture
- Checking the interior of the drywall for moisture
- Replacing or cutting out moisture-damaged walls
If you do not take the appropriate action on time, the various properties of your drywall, such as insulation, will lose their value. Other technical damages caused to your drywall are best sorted by calling a professional who will measure the extent of damage and advise accordingly.
Is Drywall Waterproof?
Most drywalls are water-resistant with the various treatments applied during manufacturing or installation. Waterproof drywall will save you from mold and mildew, especially in damp areas such as the kitchen and bathroom.
It is important to note that the materials used to make drywall, such as clay, paper, gypsum, and mica, reduce its resistance to water damage. However, there are DIY treatment options that you can use, such as:
- Applying a waterproofing primer
- Using fiberglass mesh tape
- Applying a sealant
- Using Redgard waterproofing agent
Most water-resistant drywalls only resist water for a limited period. That is why you need to waterproof them for durability. It would help if you only waterproofed walls that come in contact with water most of the time.
Final Thoughts
Although most water-resistant drywalls are expensive per sheet, they are worth every coin if you look for a lasting solution. Water-resistant drywall will offer you exceptional benefits as compared to untreated drywall. You can complement this knowledge with expert advice on the best drywall solution for your home!
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