Water Damage Cleanup can be a daunting task. Assessing and dealing with specific damage requires experience, expertise, authority, and trust. One of the most common questions that arise after a flood is: **How much drywall do I need to remove?** ### Assessing Drywall Damage The extent of drywall removal will depend on several factors: * **Type of water:** Clean water, such as rainwater, causes less damage than contaminated water, such as sewage. * **Duration of flooding:** Longer periods of flooding result in more severe damage. * **Porosity of drywall:** Drywall made of gypsum board absorbs moisture easily and may need to be removed more extensively. ### Determining Removal Height To determine how high up the drywall needs to be removed, follow these steps: 1. Remove the baseboards and any other moldings. 2. Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of the drywall at various heights. 3. Remove all drywall that has a moisture content above 16%. 4. Mark the height at which the drywall should be removed with a marker or chalk line. ### Removing Drywall Once the removal height has been determined, follow these steps to remove the drywall: * **Wear protective gear:** Safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask are essential. * **Use a sharp utility knife:** Score the drywall along the marked line to create a clean cut. * **Break the drywall:** Bend the drywall back and forth at the score mark until it snaps. * **Remove the pieces:** Carefully remove the broken pieces of drywall. ### Additional Considerations * **If possible, remove drywall that has been in contact with sewage or contaminated water completely.** * **Consider removing drywall that has been stained or warped, even if the moisture content is below 16%.** * **Allow the remaining drywall to dry completely before repairing or replacing it.** By following these steps, you can assess and deal with specific water damage caused by flooding. Remember, water damage cleanup is a task best left to professionals who have the experience and expertise to handle it safely and effectively.