Drywall Repair in Denver, Colorado

Drywall, also known as plasterboard or wallboard, is a common building material used for interior walls and ceilings in homes and businesses. While durable, drywall can become damaged over time and require repairs. From small holes and cracks to water damage or large holes that need entire panels replaced, drywall issues can happen to any property in Denver, Colorado.

Causes of Drywall Damage

Drywall consists of a layer of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. Screwed or nailed to wall studs or ceiling joists, drywall creates smooth, continuous surfaces when properly installed. But the soft gypsum core has little strength or density, making drywall prone to dents, holes, and other damage.

Common causes of drywall damage in Denver homes and businesses include:

Accidental impacts from doors, furniture, or other objects
Stress cracks from shrinking building materials
Water leaks leading to drywall swelling or mold
Nail pops as wood studs expand and contract
Improper installation or aging materials

With Denver’s arid climate, improperly sealed drywall is also vulnerable to drywall screw popping. Thankfully, many drywall repairs can be completed by handy homeowners themselves.

Fixing Small Drywall Damage

For minor drywall repairs like holes smaller than 6 inches wide, all you need are basic tools and patching materials readily available at local hardware stores and home improvement centers like Home Depot or Lowe’s.

Supplies typically include:

Drywall knife or putty knife
Sandpaper
Drywall joint compound (also called mud)
Joint tape
Mud pan
Primer
Paint

Before patching, clean the damaged area by brushing away any loose material or dust. For small holes, apply a thin layer of joint compound over the hole and surrounding area using your putty knife. Let the compound dry completely before smoothing it with light sanding.

For cracks, apply joint tape over the length of the crack with compound underneath. Apply a thin layer of compound over the tape, feathering the edges. Allow to dry fully, then sand smooth.

Apply a second coat of joint compound over repairs and blend into the surrounding wall with knife or sandpaper. Prime and paint once fully dry for an seamless finish.

Repairing Large Holes and Damaged Areas

For holes larger than 6 inches or severely damaged drywall, cutting out the damaged section and replacing it with new drywall is likely needed. Measure the hole and cut a new piece of drywall to size with a utility knife. Install into the opening with drywall screws, making sure edges line up with existing seams where possible.

Finish by taping the seams between old and new drywall with joint tape and compound. Feather out the compound several inches beyond the seam edges. Once dry, sand smooth and finish with priming and painting. Large repairs may require several rounds of compound and sanding for a seamless look.

Repairing Water-Damaged Drywall in Denver

Water leaks from broken pipes, flooding, or roof damage can quickly ruin drywall in Denver homes. Water-damaged drywall needs to be removed and replaced to prevent mold growth.

To repair, eliminate the source of water first. Cut away swollen drywall at least 6 inches above the water line. Let studs dry completely, which may take 7-10 days. Look for signs of mold and treat affected wood with a fungicide. Install new, mold-resistant drywall.

In cases of severe water damage, professional remediation may be required. The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment provides resources on water damage repair and mold prevention.

Hiring Drywall Contractors in Denver

For major drywall repairs or large projects, consider hiring Denver drywall installation and finishing experts. Look for licensed contractors experienced in both repairing existing drywall and handling new installations.

When comparing bids, ask potential contractors questions like:

Are you licensed in Denver? May I see proof of insurance?
What types of drywall repairs do you have experience with?
Will you handle obtaining any required permits?
What is your timeline for completing the project?

Read reviews and look for referrals from past clients. Be sure to get every detail of the project scope, timeline, materials, and price quote in a written contract.

For help finding reputable Denver drywall contractors, check sources like the Denver tourism website or Denver Chamber of Commerce.

Drywall Finishing and Texture

In addition to drywall repairs, many Denver homeowners want fresh drywall textures or finishing options like:

Smooth wall finish
Knockdown texture
Orange peel texture
Skip trowel texture
Acoustic ceiling texture

Consider options like removing heavy popcorn ceiling texture which can contain asbestos in older homes. Licensed abatement contractors should handle any necessary asbestos removal in Denver.

Discuss new drywall texture or finishing options with your drywall installation contractor. An experienced professional can match existing textures or create new looks flawlessly.

Maintaining Drywall in Denver

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can keep drywall in Denver homes looking its best. Follow tips like:

Use painter’s tape when hanging pictures and decor to prevent damage.
Keep drywall surfaces primed and painted to prevent moisture issues.
Fix broken plumbing fixtures quickly to prevent water damage.
Caulk corners and seams to prevent cracking from building shifts.
Anchor heavy items like TVs and shelves securely into studs.

With vigilance and proper care, drywall can last for decades before needing repairs. But even damaged drywall in Denver homes can be fixed with simple DIY techniques or professional contractor services.