Drywall Vancouver Contractors:

Professional Tips on Bathroom Drywall Repair

Before you start renovating your bathroom, it's important to check the condition of the drywall. Be sure to realize that the drywall requires repairs or replacement before you've installed a new bathtub or finished the flooring. Learn about damaged drywall signs and the advantages of hiring professional drywall contractors in Vancouver.

Inspecting Drywall for Damage

If you're planning a major remodel and need to remove drywall, it's important to do it carefully. Sledgehammers can cause damage, making it difficult to reuse the drywall effectively.

Check your drywall for water or mould damage to determine if it can be reused. Look for any obvious discoloration or stains, but remember that some mould can be light and hard to notice. To detect it, rely on your sense of touch and smell. Moisture-damaged drywall will feel soft and can have peeling or bubbling areas. Mould-infested sections will feel slippery and leave streaks when touched. They also give off a musty odour.

Any cracks, bumps, or tears in the drywall should be addressed. Such damage allows water to penetrate and leads to mould growth. Minor damage can be repaired, but extensive issues require replacement.

The Most Suitable Drywall for Your Bathroom

If signs of mould and water damage are discovered, or a large repair is needed, starting fresh with a new panel is a good practice. You don't necessarily have to trash the old. You can repurpose the good parts in smaller projects and other areas of the home or simply recycle them.

When placing new drywall in your bathroom, use moisture and mould-resistant varieties to minimize future issues. Several options include green, purple, and blue board drywall or fibreglass drywall, also known as paperless. You could also skip the drywall altogether and go with cement boarding. 

Each option has pros and cons, offering different moisture and mould protection levels. You'll consider which areas of your bathroom remodel need drywall, then consult your budget to determine which option is best for you.

Tips to Avoid Disaster in Your Bathroom Renovation

If you're planning a bathroom renovation, there are important steps to take before starting. These include setting a budget, researching contractors, obtaining permits, and staying focused on the project. Alongside these tasks, inspecting your home for any existing damage is important. 

This could include visible issues like broken structures or less obvious problems like mould, water leaks, or weather-related damage. It's important to address these issues early on, whether they require quick fixes or professional assistance.

While aspects of the renovation can be exciting, it's essential to consider certain factors. 

Invest in the Right Equipment

It is critical to emphasize safety when beginning a home improvement project. Depending on the area you're working on, you will need specific tools and electrical equipment. Whether you hire professionals or do it yourself, invest in proper safety equipment. Many people get injured because they don't wear helmets or take necessary precautions like goggles and gloves.

Wearing the right protective gear is important, especially during demolition. Hazardous materials like concrete, drywall, plaster, tile, roofing sheets, and electricity can be involved. When using tools like hammers, saws, and drills, wearing glasses, masks, gloves, and earplugs is wise. Wearing a tool belt over your protective clothing can also help with organization.

Be Aware of the Costs

Hidden costs can sneak up on you during home renovation projects. One common issue with home improvement is failing to account for unexpected expenses such as bug infestations, water damage, wiring issues, and utility expenses. Time is also a factor, as projects often take longer than expected.

Unexpected costs happen, so it's important to budget extra money to cover them. Having extra funds available, from structural updates to interior design choices, is a good idea. Additional expenses can arise from choosing high-quality or average materials, so staying within budget is key. Remember that staying elsewhere during the remodel can significantly increase the bill.

Know Your Vision

When it comes to remodelling, it's essential to have a clear idea of what you want. A home renovation project ultimately comes down to your preferences. Whether you hire a designer or decide independently, establish your vision early on. Sanborn advises against being indecisive, as frequent changes can cause delays. Just like placing a food order, success comes when you make accurate renovation decisions from the start.

Consider taking on the project yourself if you're updating a small area. However, seeking assistance from a designer or contractor for larger renovations or complete makeovers could be worth it in the long run. Making significant and permanent decisions can be overwhelming, but professional expertise can alleviate stress and prevent costly mistakes.

The Risks of DIY Drywall Repair

Fixing your drywall is a cheaper option for your bathroom problem. However, it can result in uneven and unattractive walls. Don't take shortcuts and try to do it yourself, or you could end up with a mess and still need professional help.

One of the biggest risks is that the repair will not be done correctly, resulting in uneven or unattractive walls. This can be a major eyesore and make the walls more susceptible to damage in the future.

Another risk of DIY drywall repair is that the repair can be weak. The repair can crack or break easily if the joint compound is not applied correctly. This could lead to further damage to the walls, and it can also require additional repairs.

Finally, DIY drywall repair can also create safety hazards. For example, if the joint compound is not sanded properly, it could create a tripping hazard.

If you're considering DIY drywall repair, it's important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. If you're unsure if you have the skills or time to do the job right, hiring a professional is best.