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Drywall is a common building material used in the construction industry. It is made of gypsum plaster, which is sandwiched between two layers of paper. Despite its popularity, drywall is notorious for breaking easily. In this post, we will explore the science behind why drywall breaks so easily.

1. Composition of Drywall

Drywall is made of gypsum plaster, which is a soft mineral that is easily crushed into a fine powder. The plaster is mixed with water to form a paste, which is then spread onto a paper backing. The paper backing provides strength and stability to the plaster.

2. Weaknesses in the Paper Backing

The paper backing of drywall is one of the main reasons why it breaks so easily. The paper is made of cellulose fibers, which are not very strong. The fibers are also prone to absorbing moisture, which weakens the paper even further. When the paper backing is weakened, it cannot provide the necessary support to the plaster, causing it to crack and break.

3. Installation Errors

Another reason why drywall breaks easily is due to installation errors. When drywall is installed, it is screwed or nailed to the studs in the wall. If the screws or nails are not properly placed, they can create stress points in the drywall. Over time, these stress points can cause the drywall to crack and break.

4. Environmental Factors

Environmental factors can also contribute to the breaking of drywall. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the drywall to expand and contract, which can create stress points in the material. Additionally, if the drywall is exposed to moisture, it can weaken the paper backing and cause the plaster to break.

In conclusion, drywall breaks easily due to a combination of factors, including the weakness of the paper backing, installation errors, and environmental factors. To prevent drywall from breaking, it is important to ensure that it is installed correctly and that it is protected from moisture and extreme temperatures.

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