Debating replacing wet drywall?

Question

I had some minor water damage from a leaking toilet tank (not drain). It was a steady drip that soaked the carpet and wicked up one wall before I arrested it. I have since removed the carpet, baseboards and toilet and peeled back the top layer of the drywall and paint. It seems to have maintained its rigidity, but I have exposed drywall that is dry to the touch. My question is should I cut this entire section out and replace it, or can I just reapply some joint compound to smooth it out, reshoot the texture and paint.? The drywall is on an exterior wall and I live in soutthern califormia where it is dry and warm right now. Thanks for any advice on if I can take the shortcut or if I should replace.

Answer 1

Give it a thin coat of mudd and sand it after it dries. Then follow your paint steps. Its a small hidden area. I would use a good sealant like KILLZ that stuff works great in moist areas, You can even tint it any color now. Remember its your home once you start cutting into the wall who knows what you'll find, and how much it will cost.

Answer 2

Drywall is cheap.  If you have easy access to it, cut it out, and make sure that it's dry inside the wall behind it.  I'd mist it with a solution of bleach and water a few times, and let that dry, too.  You really don't want mold back there...

Then head for Lowes, Menard's, or wherever, and get a new sheet of drywall.  It's a few hours of work, but you'll know that there is no risk of mold, and that the job is (hopefully) done right.

Answer 3

Cut it out and replace it.