The short answer
Assess the Extent of Moisture
Start by looking for visible signs like water stains, bulging, or soft spots on the drywall. Use a moisture meter to check the wall's surface; a high reading suggests water behind it. Listen for dripping sounds or feel for dampness. This assessment helps you decide if you can manage drying yourself or need professional help for a hidden leak.
Create Access for Drying
To dry the cavity, you must create access points. Carefully cut a section of drywall from the center of the wet area to the studs. Save this piece if it is salvageable for later repair. This opening allows air to flow behind the wall, which is essential for effective drying with equipment.
Wear safety glasses and a mask when cutting to avoid dust and potential mold spores. Turn off electricity to any outlets or switches in the affected wall before you begin. Use a utility knife and make clean, straight cuts along the studs for easier patching later.
Use Equipment to Circulate Air
Position a powerful fan to blow air directly into the opened wall cavity. Pair this with a dehumidifier in the same room to pull moisture from the air. Run both continuously, and monitor progress with your moisture meter over several days. The goal is to bring the cavity's moisture level down to match the rest of your home.
A dehumidifier is crucial indoors to counteract the humidity released from wet building materials. Keep windows in the room closed to allow the dehumidifier to work efficiently. Check the equipment's water collection reservoir regularly to empty it.
Remove Wet Insulation
If your walls have insulation, it is likely soaked. Wet insulation cannot be effectively dried in place and must be removed. After taking out the drywall section, carefully pull the insulation batts out of the cavity. This step is critical to prevent mold growth and to allow the wooden studs to dry completely.
Bag the wet insulation immediately to contain water and fibers. Before installing new insulation, ensure the wood framing is dry. Use your moisture meter on the studs and plates. The reading should be within a few percentage points of dry wood in an unaffected part of your home.
- Fiberglass batt insulation holds water and rarely dries properly.
- Wet insulation loses its thermal resistance and can promote mold.
- Wear gloves, long sleeves, and a mask for protection during removal.
- Pull the insulation out gently and place it in heavy-duty plastic bags.
- Dispose of it according to your local waste management guidelines.
- New insulation should only be installed once the framing is completely dry.
Know When to Call a Professional
If the moisture is widespread, the leak source is unknown, or you suspect mold, call local water damage pros. They have industrial equipment like injectidry systems and thermal imaging cameras to dry walls without major demolition. They can also perform mold testing if needed. This can prevent costly structural repairs and health issues down the line. Their assessment provides a documented record useful for an insurance claim, though policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. A professional inspection creates a documented record of the damage, which is useful for an insurance claim. They can identify secondary damage you might miss, like wet subfloors or compromised electrical wiring behind the walls.
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Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
Can mold grow behind drywall if it gets wet?
Yes, mold can begin to grow behind wet drywall within 24 to 48 hours in the right conditions. The paper backing on drywall and wet wood studs provide ideal food sources. If you smell a musty odor or see discoloration, there may be hidden mold growth requiring assessment.
How long does it take to dry behind walls?
Drying times vary based on the amount of water, air circulation, and humidity. With proper equipment, it often takes two to five days for the cavity to dry completely. Using a moisture meter is the only reliable way to confirm when the materials are dry.
Do I always need to remove the drywall?
Not always. For very small, localized leaks, drying may be possible through existing openings. However, if water has soaked the panel or insulation, or if moisture is widespread, removal is necessary to dry properly and prevent mold and rot inside the wall.