When rain water leaks into the drywall, it can often leave unsightly stains and discoloration, especially when it is water that has run off the roof and picked up all the dirt along the way. Furthermore, water stains on drywall can show through a coat of paint, especially if they are left untreated. While you repair and remove the drywall water damage, it is important that you also find the source of the problem so it does not happen again. repairing the cosmetic problem is actually relatively simple and can be completed with products you already have around your house.
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Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Area
The first step in fixing water damaged drywall is to prepare the area. Put on gloves to protect your hands and lay down plastic sheeting to protect the carpet or floorboards from the cleaning products you will use, since they can stain. Be sure the area is well ventilated, and consider leaving a window open while you work. You may also want to keep pets and young children away from the area so they do not touch or tip over your cleaning materials.
Step 2: Cleaning
For your cleaning solution, you can use either a one to one bleach to water solution or a solution of 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate in one gallon of water to clean the drywall water damage. Both work well, so it depends on what you currently have available in your home. Be sure to mix well in order to create and even strength solution so you do not end up with any blotchy areas.
Step 3: Scrub
Moisten a sponge in your solution and squeeze out the excess water. Then scrub the area gently, working out slightly beyond the visible edge of the water damaged drywall. A circular motion will help ensure that every area is covered. Be sure to get the solution over every part of the stain, and don’t be afraid to scrub to remove the worst of the stain.
Step 4: Dry The Area
Allow the area to dry and examine the drywall water damage. If the stain is still dark and noticeable, you may need to repeat the process. Use the same solution and again allow the area to dry.
Step 5: Primer Sealant
Once the water damaged drywall has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, prepare a primer sealant. You can find one at most local stores. This will both cover the stain and help seal out moisture in the future to prevent further water stains on drywall in your home. Use a paint tray and a roller to get a good even coat of primer over the stained area.
Step 6: Let The Primer Dry
Allow the primer to dry. Depending on the type of primer you use, this could take anywhere from one hour to a full ten hours, so be sure to check the packaging to determine what type you have. If you can still see the dark spot under the primer after it has dried, apply another coat.
Step 7: Repaint
Once the primer sealant has completely dried you can repaint the area. Hardware stores can help you match the exact shade of paint if you wish to match the existing wall color. If you would rather skip the hassle of matching the old paint, you can choose and entirely new color and take this opportunity to liven up the room with a new and exciting look.
Step 8: Talk To A Professional
Be sure to speak with a professional if you are unsure about the cause of your water damage. While the cosmetic problem is relatively easy to fix, the water stains on drywall in your house could reoccur if the underlying problem is not taken care of.
Hello, i am John and have over ten years experience in water damage clean up, water damage restoration and water damage mold. During my career i noticed that a lot of homeowners are uninformed about water damage and it's consequences. This site provides you with how-to guides and lots of information on water damage and everything what's involved.