What is Bulging Drywall

Drywall bulge is more than just an eyesore—it’s often a sign of deeper structural or moisture issues. Ignoring it can lead to more extensive damage, including mold growth, weak walls and costly repairs. 

This can happen anywhere in the home but is most common in areas with high humidity, plumbing fixtures or structural shifts. Whether it’s a small bump or a big protrusion, finding the root cause is the first step to a fix.

Causes of Bulging Drywall

Several things cause bulging drywall and understanding them is key to fixing the problem. Maintaining the structural integrity of buildings is crucial to prevent issues like bulging drywall.

Water Damage and Mold Growth

Water damage is one of the top causes of bulging drywall. 

Leaking pipes behind walls experiencing water damage, including a burst pipe, often allow moisture to accumulate and weaken the drywall over time. 

Flood damage from storms or plumbing failures can also soak the drywall and make it swell and lose its integrity. Standing water poses dangers such as potential contamination and electrocution risks, making it necessary to quickly extract it from affected areas to prevent further damage and facilitate a proper restoration process. 

Poor drainage or roof leaks can allow water to seep into walls and create long term issues that weaken the structure and cause bulges. Effective water mitigation is crucial in addressing water damage, as a rapid response can minimize damage and prevent mold growth.

Structural Issues

A shifting foundation or settling home can cause a drywall panel to move and bulge or crack. When a foundation shifts the frame of the home can shift slightly and that affects the drywall alignment. 

Older homes naturally settle over time which can put pressure on drywall seams and cause bulges over time. Poor framing during construction can also cause drywall panels to shift out of place especially in homes with subpar building materials.

Poor Installation

Drywall installation requires precision and poor craftsmanship can cause bulging. Over-tightened screws can compress the drywall and create stress points that cause bulges over time. 

Using too few fasteners or weak adhesives can cause drywall panels to loosen and push out. Choosing the wrong drywall thickness for the application can also compromise stability especially in high humidity areas where more support is needed.

Plumbing Problems

Leaking pipes behind walls often cause moisture to accumulate and drywall to swell. When plumbing issues go unnoticed water slowly accumulates and weakens the wall structure. This creates a soft bulge that gets worse over time especially in bathrooms and kitchens where plumbing lines are extensive. 

If left unchecked the moisture can also lead to mold growth which further deteriorates the drywall and poses health risks to the home’s occupants. In a water emergency, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent further damage and ensure safety.

Termite or Pest Infestation

Pests like termites can damage a home’s wooden structures including the wall studs supporting the drywall. When termites eat through the wooden framing the drywall loses its structural support and starts to bulge or sag. 

Rodents and other pests can also burrow into walls creating hollow spaces that weaken the overall integrity of the drywall. Pest infestations not only cause physical damage but can also bring in allergens and bacteria into living spaces.

How to Fix Bulging Drywall

Once the cause of bulging drywall is identified the next step is to fix it properly. Depending on the severity of the water damage cleanup the solution can range from minor touch-ups to full replacement. 

The water damage restoration process is a structured approach to recovering properties affected by water damage, ensuring a quick response and systematic steps to restore the property effectively.

Assess the Damage

Before you start any repairs evaluate the extent of the problem. A soft bulge may indicate water damage while a firm bulge might suggest structural issues or poor installation. Check for mold or discoloration to see if moisture is the main culprit. If the issue is widespread it’s best to consult a professional for a full assessment.

Fixing Minor Bulging

For minor cases of bulging drywall small repairs can restore its appearance and integrity. Reinforce loose drywall with additional screws to secure it back in place. Apply joint compound over the affected area then sand to smooth out the imperfections. 

If the bulging is caused by poor adhesion use construction adhesive to reattach the drywall to studs for a long term fix.

Drywall Repair: Replacing Severely Damaged Drywall

For drywall that has suffered significant or major water damage or structural damage replacement is often the best solution. Cut out the affected area using a utility knife making sure to have clean edges for the replacement piece. 

Remove any damaged insulation or supporting materials before installing new drywall panels. Install the new drywall with screws then tape and mud the seams then sand the surface to create a smooth seamless finish before priming and painting. 

Additionally, it is crucial to restore not just the physical structure but also the personal property within it.

Fix the Underlying Issues

To prevent future problems it’s important to fix the root cause. Fixing leaks and improving ventilation can keep moisture under control. Reinforcing structural weaknesses such as loose framing or foundation shifts can stop drywall from moving. 

Proper insulation and using high quality drywall for specific areas of the home can also increase long term durability.

Drywall Repair Techniques

Drywall repair techniques vary depending on the extent of the damage. For small holes and cracks, a simple spackling compound and sanding can be sufficient. 

However, for more extensive damage, such foundation issues such as bulging drywall or water damage, more advanced techniques may be required.

For bulging drywall, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause, such as water damage or structural issues, and address it before repairing the drywall. This might involve fixing leaks, reinforcing structural elements to remove water behind, or improving ventilation to prevent future issues.

When dealing with water damage, it’s crucial to dry the damaged area off completely before repairing the drywall to prevent mold growth and further damage. This often involves water extraction and the use of industrial drying equipment to ensure all excess water is removed.

For drywall panels that are damaged beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace them entirely. This involves cutting out the damaged section, removing any compromised insulation or supporting materials, and installing new drywall panels. 

The new panels should be secured with drywall screws, taped, mudded, and sanded to create a smooth, seamless finish before priming and painting.

Hire a Water Damage Restoration Service

When the damage is severe or widespread, calling a water damage restoration company is the best option. Collaborating with your insurance company is a crucial part of the water damage remediation process, simplifying the claims process for homeowners. 

Professionals use advanced moisture detection tools to find hidden leaks and assess the full extent of the moisture damage done. Industrial drying equipment is used to remove excess moisture before any drywall repair is done. 

Hiring a pro ensures mold prevention measures are in place reducing the risk of future drywall problems. Additionally, it is important to avoid areas where electrical equipment may be exposed to water to prevent electrical shock hazards.

DIY vs. Professional Repair

While some drywall repairs can be done DIY, others may require professional assistance. It’s essential to assess the extent of the damage and determine your level of expertise before deciding whether to tackle the repair yourself or hire a professional.

DIY repairs can be cost-effective and convenient, but they may not always be done correctly, which can lead to further damage or safety hazards. For minor issues like small holes or cracks, DIY repairs using spackling compound and sanding can be sufficient. However, for more complex problems like bulging drywall or extensive water damage, professional repairs are often the better choice.

Professional repairs ensure that the job is done correctly and safely, but they can be more expensive. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to handle severe damage, such as water extraction, mold prevention, and structural reinforcement. If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or your ability to repair it, it’s always best to consult a professional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When repairing drywall, there are also several factors and common mistakes to avoid to ensure a successful and safe repair.

Using low-quality materials, such as cheap drywall screws or spackling compound, can lead to a poor finish and further damage. Investing in high-quality materials ensures a more durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

Not sanding furniture or filling holes properly can leave imperfections and unevenness. Take the time to sand and fill holes thoroughly to achieve a smooth, even surface.

Applying too much paint or primer can lead to a thick, uneven finish. Use thin, even coats and allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.

Not allowing sufficient drying time can cause the repair to fail or lead to further damage. Ensure that all materials, including joint compound and paint, are fully dry before proceeding to the next step.

Ignoring safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation, can lead to injury or health risks. Always wear appropriate protective equipment and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid exposure to dust and fumes.

By avoiding these most common causes of mistakes and using the right techniques and materials, you can ensure a successful and safe drywall repair.

How to Prevent Drywall Bulging

Take proactive steps to prevent drywall bulging before it becomes a big problem.

Home Maintenance and Inspections

Regular checks can catch issues early. Inspect ceilings and walls for signs of moisture such as discoloration or peeling paint to detect hidden leaks. Test for loose drywall by gently pressing on suspect areas to find structural weaknesses before they get worse. Timely maintenance reduces the risk of major damage and costly repairs.

Control Indoor Humidity

High humidity can cause drywall expansion and mold growth. Use a dehumidifier to maintain proper indoor moisture levels especially in humid climates or basements. Ensure good airflow through ceiling fans and ventilation systems to prevent condensation buildup. Install vapor barriers in crawl spaces to reduce moisture from seeping into walls.

Proper Drainage and Leak Prevention

Water from outside the home can also affect drywall. Keep gutters and downspouts clean to ensure proper water drainage away from the foundation. Regularly inspect roofs for leaks especially after heavy rain to prevent moisture from seeping into walls and floors. Seal cracks in exterior walls and around windows to prevent water damage and preserve drywall integrity.

Hire a Water Damage Restoration Company

Periodic assessments by a water damage restoration service can help homeowners identify risks before they become big problems. Professionals use specialized tools to detect moisture levels within walls so no hidden leaks go unnoticed. 

By investing in professional assessments homeowners can proactively address vulnerabilities and implement effective moisture control strategies.

Conclusion

Drywall bulging means something is going on behind the scenes. Whether it’s water damage, structural problems or poor installation fixing the root cause is key to the fix.

By knowing the reasons for drywall bulging and taking proactive measures homeowners can avoid expensive repairs and a safe structurally sound home. If in doubt, call a water damage restoration company to get it diagnosed, fixed and protected from future drywall problems.