How to Repair Termite Damage in Drywall (Plus Home Remedies for Termites)

Termites can cause extensive and costly damage to homes. If your property has been affected, it’s essential to know how to repair termite damage in drywall and also how to prevent future infestations. This article covers prevention, natural remedies, and step-by-step drywall repair.

What Is Drywall?

Drywall is commonly made from gypsum panels, with gypsum sandwiched between two layers of paper that contains cellulose — a favorite food source for termites. Because of this, drywall is not immune to termite attacks.

Termite Damage in Drywall

Termites feed on cellulose and can easily attack drywall paper coverings. Left untreated, termites can extend damage beyond drywall to structural supports like beams, joists, and studs, compromising your home’s integrity.

How to Identify Termite Damage

• Drywood termites: Leave pinholes and hexagonal-shaped droppings called frass.
• Subterranean termites: Create mud tubes and tunnels from soil into drywall.
• Signs in drywall: Small capped pinholes and dirt tubes on walls or ceilings.

Sheetrock vs. Drywall

Sheetrock is a patented brand of drywall. Functionally, there’s no difference — both can be damaged by termites.

How to Protect Your Home From Termites

Since termite damage often isn’t covered by insurance, prevention is critical. Key steps include:

• Keep wood at least 6 inches above ground.
• Prevent moisture buildup near foundations with good drainage.
• Ventilate crawlspaces to reduce humidity.
• Store firewood and debris away from the home.
• Consider professional termite protection and termiticide treatments.
• Some homeowners even train dogs to detect termites through methane gas.

Home Remedies for Termites

While professional extermination is the most effective solution, several DIY remedies may help reduce infestations:

• Cardboard traps: Attract termites with cellulose, then dispose of safely.
• Nematodes: Natural predators of termites, available at garden stores.
• Boric acid: Effective spray or bait method that kills termites.
• Orange oil: Contains d-limonene, lethal to termites.
• Diatomaceous Earth: Eco-friendly powder that punctures termite exoskeletons.

How to Repair Termite Damage in Drywall

Once termites have been exterminated, you can repair drywall damage using the following steps:

1. Clear furniture and cover the area with a tarp.
2. Remove loose drywall chips and paper.
3. Fill holes with plaster, mortar, or stucco using a putty knife.
4. Apply additional layers at a 30° angle and allow to dry (about 8 hours).
5. Sand with 200-grit paper until smooth.
6. Paint over the repair for uniform finish.
7. For larger holes, use self-adhesive drywall patches for a cleaner repair.

Final Thoughts

Termites can destroy a home from the inside out. By combining prevention, natural remedies, and proper repairs, you can protect your home and avoid thousands of dollars in damage. For severe infestations, always seek professional help.