Drywall forms the foundation of interior walls and ceilings in most Houston homes. The quality of drywall work and finishing directly affects how every room looks and feels.
Houston’s climate creates specific challenges for interior finishes. This guide covers what homeowners need to know about drywall services, from minor repairs to complete installations.
Drywall Basics
Drywall consists of gypsum plite pressed between paper sheets. Different types serve different purposes:
- Standard drywall: Works for most interior walls
- Moisture-resistant (green board): Best for bathrooms and kitchens
- Fire-rated (Type X): Required in garages and certain locations
Installation involves cutting panels to size, securing them to framing, and finishing the joints. The finishing process, called taping and mudding, creates the smooth or textured surface you see after painting.
Common Drywall Repairs
Everyday life takes a toll on walls. Different types of damage require different repair approaches.
Small Holes & Dents
Nail holes, minor scrapes, and small dents can be filled with joint compound and sanded smooth.
Tip: Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick application for better results and less shrinkage.
Larger Holes (Fist-Sized or Greater)
Repair process for larger damage:
- Cut out damaged area in a regular shape (square or rectangle)
- Fit a new drywall patch into the opening
- Apply mesh tape over seams
- Build up joint compound in layers, sanding between coats
- Prime and paint to match surrounding wall
Crack Repair
Cracks commonly appear at corners, around doors and windows, and where walls meet ceilings. These result from settling, temperature changes, or improper initial installation.
Proper crack repair involves:
- Opening the crack slightly to create a clean edge
- Applying tape over the crack
- Building up joint compound in multiple layers
- Addressing the underlying cause to prevent recurrence
Water Damage Restoration
Water-damaged drywall often requires replacement rather than repair. Moisture weakens the gypsum core and creates conditions for mold growth inside walls.
Important: Before installing new drywall after water damage, ensure the water source has been fixed and the wall cavity has dried completely.
Signs of Water Damage
- Visible water stains or discoloration
- Soft spots when pressing on the wall
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Musty odor indicating mold growth
Houston-Specific Note: Homes face water damage risks from hurricanes, flooding, and plumbing failures. Quick response limits damage extent and reduces restoration costs.
New Drywall Installation
Renovation projects often involve installing new drywall. Proper installation creates a solid base for paint and other finishes.
Installation Best Practices
- Stagger seams to reduce visible joints and cracking
- Orient panels correctly for structural integrity
- Set screws just below surface without breaking paper face
- Use appropriate drywall type for each location
Finishing Techniques
The finishing stage determines how walls appear after painting. Different applications call for different finish levels.
Smooth Finish
Achieving a smooth finish requires multiple coats of joint compound, each sanded before the next. The compound is feathered out from joints and screw holes to create an even surface. This labor-intensive process rewards patience and skill.
Textured Finishes
Common textures in Houston homes include:
- Knockdown: Spray-applied then flattened for subtle texture
- Orange peel: Fine, uniform bumpy texture
- Popcorn: Heavy acoustic texture (common on ceilings)
Tip: Matching existing texture during repairs requires experience. If matching is essential and difficult too, consider having a professional handle the work.
Interior Trim & Molding
Trim work completes the look of interior spaces and covers gaps between different surfaces.
Types of Interior Trim
- Baseboards: Cover joint between walls and floors
- Crown molding: Add detail at ceiling lines
- Window & door casings: Frame openings, hide gaps
- Chair rail: Decorative horizontal trim at chair height
Installing trim requires precision cutting and fitting. Corners must meet cleanly, and joints should be tight. While caulk and paint hide small gaps, poor initial fitting shows through over time.
When to Hire a Professional
While small repairs can be DIY projects, professional help is recommended for:
- Large areas of new drywall installation
- Smooth finish requirements in visible areas
- Texture matching on repairs
- Water damage restoration involving mold concerns
- Crown molding and complicated trim installations
When hiring a contractor, ask about experience with your specific type of work. Review examples of their finishing quality and discuss how they protect your home from dust during the project.
Quality drywall and finishing work may not be glamorous, but it affects how every room in your home looks and feels every day.