If you’ve just renovated your flat or office and something about your walls feels off, don’t brush it off. It could be one of the early signs of a poor drywall installation. In Singapore, where HDBs, condos, and commercial interiors rely heavily on drywall partitions, poor workmanship can ruin the final look of your space and lead to ongoing problems.
Unfortunately, it’s something many homeowners in Singapore only discover after the dust has settled — literally. From wavy surfaces to visible cracks, poor drywall jobs don’t just ruin the aesthetic — they can lead to long-term issues like water seepage, mold, and unnecessary repair costs.
Let’s explore the common signs of a poor drywall installation, how to spot them early, and how to make sure your renovation investment doesn’t go to waste. Also, LS Partition Wall Singapore explains common signs of poor drywall installation in Singapore. Moreover, they also offer professional services for false ceilings, room divider, and partition walls in Singapore.
1. Visible Seams and Poor Joint Work
Well-installed drywall should look like a smooth, continuous surface. If you can spot lines or bulges where drywall sheets meet, that’s one of the earliest signs of a bad drywall job.
What to look out for:
- Lines or ridges visible even after painting
- Taping lines that show through the paint
- Areas that look patchy or unfinished under direct lighting
- Sunken joints that form depressions on the wall
This often happens when contractors rush the process or use cheap filler compounds that shrink over time — a frequent issue in rushed HDB renovations.
2. Nail or Screw Pops
When fasteners are not properly secured or installed too shallow/deep, they can pop out and create bumps on the wall surface. These are classic signs of a weak drywall installation and can worsen over time, especially with Singapore’s humid weather causing expansion and contraction.
Red flags include:
- Circular bumps showing through the paint
- Tiny cracks forming around fastener heads
- Loose or rattling drywall panels
Quality drywall work involves setting fasteners at the right depth and spacing — something amateur installers often get wrong.
3. Cracks Around Doors and Windows
Stress points like window corners and door frames are where a poor drywall installation signs often appear first. These areas need proper taping, flexible joint compound, and sometimes mesh reinforcement.
Watch for:
- Cracks running diagonally from the corners of windows and doors
- Hairline cracks that reappear after painting
- Wide or growing gaps along wall junctions
In high-rise flats in Singapore, minor structural shifts are common, so proper installation techniques are key to preventing future cracks.
4. Bad Corner Finishing
Sloppy corners not only look unattractive but can also chip or peel over time. They’re a dead giveaway of a poor drywall installation.
Common indicators:
- Uneven or jagged edges
- Corner bead visibly protruding or rusting
- Tape peeling away from the edges
- Cracks forming along corner joints
Inexperienced contractors often neglect proper corner bead installation and skimp on the finishing layers needed for a clean, long-lasting result.
5. Wavy or Uneven Surfaces
Smooth, level walls are a must, especially in modern Singapore homes where light fixtures and minimalist designs emphasize clean lines. A wall that appears wavy or dented is a clear sign of a bad drywall job.
Key signs:
- Uneven texture or shadowing under ceiling lights
- Warping along large wall areas
- Soft spots when you press on the drywall
- Bumpy or patchy paint finish
This usually stems from uneven framing behind the drywall or poor sanding technique.
6. Paint Problems That Reveal Flaws
Poor drywall finishing becomes painfully obvious once the paint is applied. You may think the painter is to blame, but in many cases, it’s the drywall beneath.
Telltale issues:
- Paint bubbling or blistering
- Inconsistent color or gloss levels
- Flaking or peeling paint after a short time
- Dusty or chalky patches post-painting
These are all signs of a poor drywall installation in Singapore, especially when walls aren’t properly sealed or prepped before painting.
How to Avoid These Issues
- Hire BCA-Registered Contractors: In Singapore, hiring certified professionals with BCA (Building and Construction Authority) registration ensures you’re getting someone who meets national standards.
- Don’t Cut Corners on Renovation Budgets: Cheap isn’t always cheerful — especially when it comes to drywall. Paying a bit more for experienced workers can save you thousands in rework later.
- Insist on a Walkthrough Before Painting: Always inspect drywall installation before the paint goes on. Look for bumps, seams, or cracks and have them corrected immediately.
- Request for Local References: Ask your contractor for photos or contacts of previous drywall jobs in Singapore. Good workmanship speaks for itself.
Conclusion
Spotting the signs of a poor drywall installation early can save you from a world of frustration, from ruined aesthetics to structural issues. In Singapore, where drywall plays a key role in space optimization and interior aesthetics, getting it right is non-negotiable.
Whether you’re installing drywall partitions in your Bukit Panjang BTO or remodeling a private apartment in River Valley, remember: good drywall work isn’t just about looks — it’s about long-term comfort, safety, and value.