Should drywall be able to be very slightly moved when pushed on? We have noticed that two of our walls in the living room – both are exterior walls – seem to be weak. We can push on them and see/feel a slight movement. We only have experience with plaster walls as homeowners and are not sure if drywall is just a weak material so this will happen, or if it is due to some type of poor construction?
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Replies
I work with both drywall and plaster. Plaster walls are usually thicker than drywall and feel more sturdy. Assuming your stud spacing is 16" on center, half inch thick drywall is the norm. If, when you push against you drywall, you see nail or screw heads popping or gently protruding, it is possible that your walls were not completely dry during the construction phase. Drywall was applied. Lumber dried and shrank later on, leaving "spongy walls".
Another possibility: your studs are not the (minimal) normal 3.5" wide. If they are less, your walls may bow when force is applied. Lastly, if the studs are 24" on center, and covered with 1/2" drywall, you can most definitely expect "spongy" walls.
You might have a moisture problem. That is another topic.
No, it should not move. Your stud spacing could be 24" on center in which case a tiny bit of movement in the center is normal.