Repairing a hole in drywall is quite easy, and doing it yourself will save you money. Repairing a hole in drywall will not only make the home look better, it may also reduce heating and cooling costs.This page will share with readers how to repair holes in drywall.
Items Needed
Sheet of drywall
Joint compound, sometimes called drywall compound
Level or Ruler
Wire mesh or wood strips for support
Introduction
Homeowners can easily patch small holes in drywall with a dab of joint compound. If the damaged area is tiny, simply smooth on joint compound and allow it to dry thoroughly. Sand the area and paint as you normally would. If the hole in the drywall is the size of a doorknob, it is far better to remove the damaged piece and replace it. Removing the damaged piece of drywall is a simple repair you can usually do yourself.
How to Replace Damaged Drywall
This drywall repair video shows you simple steps on how to do an effective patch that is unnoticeable when the wall is painted.
Step 1: Remove the Damaged Dry Wall
- Use a level or ruler to draw a square around the damaged area.
- Cut out the damaged drywall along the lines you drew, using a drywall saw or a utility knife.
- Remove the piece carefully, as this will be the template for your patch.
Step 2: Create the Dry Wall Patch
- Lay the piece of damaged drywall on the back of the piece of replacement dry wall, and trace around the edges.
- Use the utility knife to cut through the drywall.
- Remove the patch.
Step 3: Prepare the Hole
The new drywall will need a surface to adhere to.
- Select wood strips that are 1 inch thick, 2-4 inches wide, and 6 inches longer than the hole.
- Apply the strips with drywall screws about 2 inches apart in the hole, sinking the screw heads about 1/16 inch into the drywall.
Step 4: Patch the Hole
- apply joint compound to the patch, covering the seams and screw holes. Don't apply a leyer more then 1/8 inch thick.
- Allow the joint compound to dry over night.
- Apply another layer if needed. Repaet the process until the damaged area is covered.
- After the joint compound is dry, it needs to be sanded. Sand the area of joint compound with a hand sander so that it is level with the wall.
- Once the area has been sanded and is smooth, it is ready to be painted.
