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Whether to repair or replace water-damaged plaster depends on the scale of the damage. For small, limited areas, you can often perform a repair yourself. If you choose to paint over small patches, ensure the surface is completely dry and apply a coat of antifungal primer first to prevent mold growth. However, simply painting or plastering over the damage is only a temporary solution that doesn't address the core problem. For more extensive or long-term damage, the plaster may be compromised, and there is a risk of mold. In these cases, it is recommended to remove the damaged section of plasterboard and replace it. You may consider hiring a professional for the repair, and it's worth noting that water damage is often covered by home insurance.

Brick and stucco are a lot more different. You must use picture hanging clips designed for brick walls, or use a plaster rail system with adjustable hooks. Any other type of hanging hardware will cause damage to the bricks behind. You won’t be able to really use nails, either, because they’re not strong enough to go into the bricks.

You should wait at least 24 hours for drywall mud to dry before sanding or applying another coat. However, the exact drying time depends on several factors, including the thickness of the application, room temperature, humidity, and the type of compound used. Thicker layers, or projects in high humidity, may require 48 hours or more. Lightweight compounds tend to dry faster than heavier, all-purpose ones. You'll know the mud is ready when it feels completely dry and firm to the touch and has changed to a consistent light color. Sanding too early can cause smudging or gouges, so patience is essential for a smooth finish.

Whether you can reuse a drywall anchor depends on its type, material, and how it is removed. Plastic anchors, such as expansion or self-drilling types, are generally considered single-use because they are designed to expand and are likely to break or become deformed upon removal. Metal anchors, like toggle bolts, are more durable and can often be reused if they are not damaged during extraction. However, with toggle bolts, the toggle mechanism can fall inside the wall when the bolt is removed, making it difficult to retrieve. If an anchor is damaged or must be cut for removal, it cannot be reused regardless of its material.