If you’re dealing with wet drywall in your Hendersonville home or business, time is not on your side. Whether it’s caused by a roof leak, burst pipe, or flood, repairs and preventive measures installation should be a top priority. Not only does wet sheetrock weaken structurally, but it also becomes a perfect breeding ground for mold within just 48 hours.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about fixing wet drywall, including how to identify the damage, when replacement is necessary, and how professionals like PuroClean of Hendersonville can help restore your property safely and thoroughly.
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Recently, a customer’s home had a roof leak. Five days after it was repaired, they called PuroClean to find out why their drywall was still wet. It seems natural to assume that drywall would dry on its own. But this is a misconception. As a homeowner, you need to understand what drywall is so you can determine if it may be salvageable after water damage.
Understanding Wet Drywall
Drywall, also known as Sheetrock, is made of a gypsum core sandwiched between paper layers. It’s widely used because it’s affordable and easy to install—but unfortunately, it’s also highly absorbent. Once water seeps into the material, the gypsum soaks it up like a sponge.
Common causes of drywall damage in Hendersonville include:
- Roof leaks
- Plumbing issues
- Overflowing bathtubs or toilets
- Water intrusion during storms
- Air conditioning condensate leaks
Regardless of the cause, immediate action is needed to stop damage from spreading.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wet Drywall Repair
1. Identify the Source of Water
Before starting any repairs, find and fix the source of the water. Repairing drywall without stopping the leak only leads to recurring damage.
2. Assess the Severity of the Damage
Light moisture may be manageable with drying, but extensive saturation, especially with bulging or sagging, often requires full replacement.
Signs your drywall needs replacement:
- Discoloration or water stains
- Sagging ceiling drywall
- Peeling paint or bubbling texture
- Musty odors indicate mold growth
3. Dry Out the Area Thoroughly
For minor dampness, you may try using:
- Dehumidifiers
- Fans
- Open windows for airflow
However, for extensive drywall damage, professionals use industrial-grade air movers, HEPA filters, and moisture meters to ensure every layer is completely dry.
4. Remove Irreparably Damaged Drywall
When drywall becomes soft or crumbles to the touch, it’s no longer structurally sound. Drywall ceiling repair is especially important—sagging ceilings can collapse and become hazardous. Cut at least 12 inches beyond the visible damage to ensure clean, mold-free replacement.
5. Check Insulation and Wall Cavities
Wet insulation is just as dangerous as soaked drywall. Waterlogged insulation can hold moisture against wood framing, causing rot and inviting mold. Remove and replace any wet insulation behind the drywall.
6. Apply Mold Remediation as Needed
If moisture has lingered more than 24–48 hours, there’s a high risk of mold. PuroClean of Hendersonville uses antimicrobial treatments and specialized equipment to eliminate spores before replacing drywall. This ensures long-term protection and peace of mind.
7. Replace and Refinish Drywall
Once the area is dry and mold-free, new drywall can be installed. For ceiling drywall repair in water damage situations, ensure proper ceiling bracing and joint finishing to prevent future issues.

Why Water-Damaged Drywall Shouldn’t Wait
Wet drywall isn’t just an eyesore, it’s a threat to your home’s structure and your health. Waiting too long can lead to:
- Worsening water damage
- Mold infestation
- Structural weakness
- Higher repair costs
If you suspect wet sheetrock damage in your home, don’t delay. Act fast and bring in experts who can assess, dry, and repair the damage before it spreads.

Professional Wet Drywall Repair Services in Hendersonville, TN. Call (615) 348-7200 for Emergency 24/7 Drying and Repairs
At PuroClean of Hendersonville, we specialize in restoring homes affected by water damage, including expert wet drywall repair. Our team uses cutting-edge moisture detection tools, powerful drying equipment, and proven remediation strategies to:
- Stop the source of water
- Fully dry affected areas
- Safely remove damaged drywall
- Apply antimicrobial treatments
- Rebuild walls and ceilings to like-new condition
Whether you need to replace ceiling drywall from water damage or repair wet sheetrock behind a wall, we’re your trusted partner in Hendersonville and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.
Don’t let wet drywall become a bigger problem. Call PuroClean of Hendersonville today for fast, professional help.
FAQ: Wet Drywall Repair in Hendersonville, TN
Q: How can I tell if drywall is too damaged to save?
If it’s sagging, bulging, soft, or visibly moldy, the drywall will likely need to be replaced. A professional can test for moisture deep inside walls.
Q: Can I dry wet drywall myself?
Lightly damp drywall can sometimes be saved with fans and dehumidifiers. However, hidden moisture and insulation issues often require professional equipment and expertise.
Q: Do I need to remove insulation behind wet drywall?
Yes. Wet insulation can harbor mold and continue spreading moisture. It must be removed and replaced as part of proper wet drywall repair.
Q: What if the damage is on my ceiling?
Wet drywall ceiling repair requires caution due to the risk of collapse. It’s best to contact professionals to safely remove and replace ceiling panels.
Q: How long does it take to dry wet drywall?
Depending on the severity, it could take 1–5 days with industrial equipment. Moisture testing ensures the area is completely dry before reconstruction.