When installed correctly and looked after in the right way, your drywall should last for many years without any problems. If you want to ensure that this happens, you need to know more about caring for your drywall and making good any issues that you might come across. Read on to find out what you should do to keep your drywall looking as good as the day it was installed. One of the biggest issues with drywall is that it can become extremely dirty over time. Whether it is a smudge, a scuff, some dust, or even marks made by dirty hands or crayons and so on if you have children, these will all make your drywall – and by extension, your home – look untidy.
Including your walls on a regular cleaning regime will help to eliminate these issues and keep your home, in general, looking much better. This does not have to be done on a daily or weekly basis, but every six months or so will make a big difference.
How To Clean
Of course, if you are including your drywall in your regular cleaning schedule, it’s important to know how to clean it. Get this wrong, and you might make matters worse, and in the very worst cases you could need to have it replaced.
The best way to start is by using a mild soap and water solution and dab at the walls. Don’t scrub them or they may stain. However, it’s best to leave your newly painted drywall for two to three months before you start cleaning as this will allow the paint to settle.
Filters and Vacuuming
The idea of vacuuming your drywall to keep it in top condition will probably not have entered your mind, and truthfully you shouldn’t actually need to do this – if you do, you run the risk of leaving marks behind that will be difficult to get off. You may even damage the wall permanently.
However, using a vacuum to clean regularly around the wall is crucial. To find a high-quality wet/dry shop vacuum cleaner, check out this review from the Unclutterer that will help you to choose the perfect one for your needs. By vacuuming your carpets and even drapes on at least a weekly basis, you will prevent dust and debris from attaching itself to your walls.
It is also important to vacuum and clean any filters you might have, such as those connecting to your heating and cooling units, or the exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom. If these are working well, less dust will settle.
Make Repairs
No matter how careful you are and how diligent your cleaning is, accidents can happen, and you might find that your drywall becomes dented and cracked over time. This may even be due to shrinkage, something that most buildings will suffer from (especially if they are new). Be aware that this might happen and be prepared with everything you will need to make repairs including the screws you need for your DIY drywalling project and any paint that may be required to make good once the repairs have been completed.
Cracks can be filled with caulk, and this is readily available at any hardware store. Start by using a little and then build up the amount you are using until the crack is filled. Sand over the surface to make it smooth, and then it can be painted. If there are dents in the wall you can use joint compound which again is easy to find. The process is the same as using caulk, although the area you are filling will be bigger.