eHow: Repairing Bowed Sheetrock Walls

Bowed Sheetrock not only looks unsightly on walls, but it is unsafe. This type of damage is typically caused by moisture. Once Sheetrock gets wet, it can do more than warp, it can also harbor harmful bacteria and mold. A bowed Sheetrock wall needs to be torn down and replaced. Simply trying to bend the warped panel back into shape will not suffice. This project will take a few hours to complete, depending on the size of the warped area.

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Pry bar
• Sheetrock panels
• Drywall screws
• Cordless screwdriver
• Self-adhesive drywall tape
• Joint compound
• Drywall knife

1. • 1
     Cut or pry the bowed section away with a utility knife or a pry bar. Make a cut along the edge of the affected piece and trim it away until the bowed section is removed. If you can see the seam, insert the pry bar into the seam and pry the Sheetrock off.
   • 2
     Remove any remaining nails or screws in the framing wood behind the Sheetrock. Use the back of a hammer to get the nails out. Place them in a bucket for easy disposal.
   • 3
     Measure out the new section of Sheetrock. Trim a new panel to fit the area with a utility knife. Snap the board back to break it and then cut through the paper.
   • 4
     Hang the new Sheetrock. Place the panel into the bare area on the wall. Attach it to the framing wood with drywall screws and a cordless screwdriver. Drive each screw until it just dimples the paper on the drywall but does not break through.
   • 5
     Tape off the edges with self-adhesive drywall tape. Press the tape down firmly.
   • 6
     Apply joint compound over the tape and screw holes with a drywall knife. Scrape on a thin layer of compound. Completely cover the tape and fill in the dimples. Scrape away any excess with the edge of your drywall knife. Let this set until hard, usually about four hours.
   • 7
     Sand down the compound with a fine-grit sanding block. Sand until the surface is level and smooth. You can now finish the section with paint and primer to match the rest of the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a mask while you are tearing out the Sheetrock. It produces a lot of dust, which can be harmful if it is inhaled. Your hands will also need to be protected with gloves during the tear out portion of this job.

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