Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage from Water

How much drywall do I need to remove after a flood?

Water damage to drywall is a common problem after a flood. The amount of drywall that needs to be removed depends on the severity of the damage. Minor water damage may only require removing the affected area, while more severe damage may require removing the entire wall.

• Minor water damage: If the water damage is only on the surface of the drywall, it may be possible to repair it without removing the entire wall. To do this, the damaged area should be cut out and replaced with a new piece of drywall.
• Moderate water damage: If the water damage has penetrated the drywall, it will need to be removed and replaced. The area to be removed should be cut out, starting from the bottom and working up. The new drywall should be installed in the same orientation as the original drywall.
• Severe water damage: If the water damage is extensive, it may be necessary to remove the entire wall. This should be done by a qualified contractor.