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When you are learning how to tape and mud drywall, waiting for things to dry requires a lot of patience. So how long does drywall mud take to dry? On average, it takes about 24 hours. However, it depends on things like the thickness of the mud, as well as the room’s temperature, humidity, and ventilation. Using thin layers of mud in a warm, low-humidity room with good airflow reduces average drying time. You also could speed up drying time by making use of hot drywall mud, which consists of a powder that you mix with water, instead of using pre-mixed mud. 

You shouldn’t leave drywall outside overnight, especially if you live in a wet or humid climate. The moisture from humidity, rain, or other elements can damage the drywall, making it weaker and susceptible to mold growth. Stash any extra drywall in a dry area away from the elements to protect it from moisture.

Any level over 17% moisture should be replaced, as this could be a sign that the drywall is too compromised to be considered safe. A contractor or water restoration provider can come out and use a moisture meter to check the moisture level in your drywall. 

If after a visual inspection you’re still unsure about if your drywall is salvageable, a professional reading is the next best option.

A 50-pound mirror can be hung on drywall, but only if it has the support of strong hardware. Ideally, you can find the studs behind the drywall and attach the mirror to them; this will give your mirror better stability. Otherwise, confirm that you are using anchors appropriate to the weight of the mirrors. Another technique is to use French cleats—two pieces of wood that fit together, with one piece attached to the wall and the other to the mirror. This allows the weight to be distributed over a wider area.