Gypsum that has become wet is best repaired with a setting-type joint compound, also called mud. The ready-mixed compound will not be hard enough and is vulnerable to any residual moisture in the wall material. Learning how to repair water-damaged plaster will allow you to solve problems without professional help. To repair damaged wall plaster, you must first assess the damage, repair the source of the damage, remove the old plaster, and apply a joint compound to repair the cracks.
Water can cause these materials to swell and crumble. If the damage is not extensive (small holes and cracks are observed), it is quite easy to apply patches. Pre-mixed putty compounds, which come in small tubs, work well for this. Use a spatula to apply the material to all damaged areas.
Wipe off excess with a damp cloth or sponge and allow to dry. If the product shrinks as it dries, apply another layer. For larger holes or cracks, it may be necessary to first apply a layer of fiberglass mesh tape to provide support. Apply the patch to the tape.
Paint and water are insoluble and an easy way to identify if the plaster is damaged by water is to look for peeling paint or air bubbles that burst and flake. Simply eliminating salt buildup will not address the underlying problem and an expert should be consulted to determine the extent of the damage and what potential damage could occur if left untreated. Knowing how to repair water-damaged wall plaster will allow you to make home repairs at a lower price. As homeowners assess Hurricane Ida's damage, it's important to remember that many historic materials, such as gypsum, are resistant to water damage and can (and should) be repaired.
Continuously letting the plaster get wet will allow water to seep into the inside of the wall, damaging the wood and other structures behind it. There are several characteristics of water damage that will help you identify if water is the underlying problem. Over time, water can be absorbed from the masonry of the foundation (or into the outer stone walls) and damage any plaster applied to it. It would be best if you looked for signs of water damage, such as peeling paint, water stains ranging from yellow to brown, fallen and peeling plaster and, in the worst case, mold.
Water damage usually causes streaks and stains on walls and ceilings that vary in color from dark yellow to brown. Using a bucket of clean water and a sponge, wash the surrounding area as a final cleaning exercise, and then let the water-damaged plaster wall dry completely. If you notice a brown stain on your plaster walls, bubbles or flakes, it is likely that your plaster walls or ceilings have been damaged by water. Water-damaged gypsum can have serious health ramifications and is often indicative of potential damage that can damage the overall integrity of the structure.
While these white or green crystalline salt structures are not hazardous to health, they are an early warning sign that water is leaking into the building and may be indicative of a potentially larger water problem. Before repairing the plaster, make sure that the underlying cause of the water damage has been thoroughly and properly treated.
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