This article is about how to repair hole in drywall. Repairing holes in drywall is really easy even if you are a rookie, provided you use the right tools and techniques. Therefore, in this step by step project we will show you how to repair the damaged areas, by using a patch and different techniques. The procedure is straightforward, but you have to pay attention to a couple of aspects, if you want to obtain a professional result.
First of all, use a drywall saw to cut out a square or a rectangle around the damaged area. This aspect is essential, otherwise it would be very difficult to repair the holes in drywall. In order to get the job quickly, we recommend you to draw a trace using a square and a carpentry pencil. After cutting out the damaged area, you should vacuum the residues thoroughly.
After you have patched the hole in drywall, we recommend you to tape the gaps between the patch and the existing wall, by using mesh net. Next, you should apply several coats of compound over the damaged area and sand it thoroughly, to obtain a smooth surface. If the surface is not even, we strongly recommend you to continue the project by applying another coat of compound and to sand it thoroughly.
Made from this plan
In order to repair holes in drywall, you need the following:
Materials
- Drywall sheet
- Fiberglass net
- Drywall compound
- 1×2 wooden strips
Tools
- T-square, tape measure, carpentry pencil, utility knife
- Large trowel
- Drywall saw
- Electrical screwdriver
Tips
- Use an utility knife with a sharp blade
- Cut the patch to fit perfectly in the hole
- Turn off the electricity before cutting the hole in the wall
- Don’t apply the compound in thick layers, otherwise it will crack after it dries out
Time
- 30 minutes
How to repair hole in drywall
Hole in drywall
Before repairing the holes in drywall, you have to cut a square or a rectangle around the damaged area. In this manner, it will be easier to make a patch and to install it into position properly. First, use a pencil and a square to draw the rectangle and then use a drywall say to cut out a hole.
Securing the wood strip with screws
Next, if the hole is smaller than 10-15”, you should install several wooden strips at the back of the drywall. Use an electric screwdriver and drywall screws to secure the wooden strip to the existing wall.
On the other hand, if the hole is very large, you should cut the existing wall as to secure the patch directly to the wooden studs. Nevertheless, even in this situation we recommend you to use backing support for the patch (you will see the difference on the long run).
Backing support
You should notice in the image, the backing support from a different angle. Make sure you sink the screws in the drywall at least 1/16”, without tearing the paper layer.
Fixing hole with a patch
Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the patch and cut it from a piece of drywall. The patch should easily fit in the hole. You shouldn’t force it at all to fit into the drywall hole. If it is slighly large, you should either enlarge the hole or cut another patch from a waste piece of drywall.
Next, lock the patch into position with several screws, making sure you sink their heads in drywall at least 1/16”. Remember that the patch should have the same thickness with the existing wall.
Covering the mesh tape with mud
Next, you should apply mesh net over the seams between the patch and the existing wall. By applying the mesh, you prevent the cracks around the patch.
Mix a small quantity of drywall compound and cover the patch with a thin coat. In order to get the job done quickly and like a professional, we recommend you to use a large drywall knife. If the surface is not perfectly level, you should sand it the next day and apply another coat of drywall.
How to fix small hole in wall
Let the compound to dry out overnight. The next day, sand the whole surface with a sand block and medium-grit sandpaper. Use circular moves and blend in the edges of the patch with the drywall, to get a neat appearance.
If the surface is not smooth enough, you have to apply a second coat of compound, let it dry overnight and sand it thoroughly. To find out more about fixing holes in drywall read this article.
Drywall hole repair
Drywall patch
If the hole is smaller than 4”, you could try a different method to get the job done quickly and efficiently. First you have to use a drywall saw and cut a square or a rectangle around the hole.
Next, you have to use the hole as guidance and cut a larger patch (2” in every direction). Afterwards, score the back of the patch with an utility knife. Remember that you have to center the patch in the middle of the piece of drywall. Last but not least, peel off the gypsum around the patch, leaving just the face paper layer.
Patching a drywall hole
Apply compound around the hole and on the patch and press it firmly into position. Use a trowel to remove the air bubbles and the folds of the paper layer.
Covering the patch with mud
Next, cover the patch with compound and spread uniformly with a 10” drywall knife. Remember that the first layer of mud shouldn’t be thick, but just enough to cover the patch properly.
If the hole is small, you don’t have to apply mesh tape, but if it is larger than 2” we strongly recommend you to use it.
How to fix small hole in wall
Let the compound dry out thoroughly overnight. The next day use a sand block and medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, as in the image. Make sure you blend in the edges with the existing wall, as to make the transition as natural as possible.
My best tips to repair holes in drywall:
Repairing holes in drywall is a common task that can be done easily with the right tools and techniques. Here are my best tips for repairing holes in drywall:
1. Use the Right Patch for the Hole Size: For small holes (like nail or screw holes), you can use spackle or lightweight joint compound to fill them. For medium-sized holes (1-3 inches), use a self-adhesive patch or a piece of drywall tape. For larger holes, you’ll need to use a drywall patch made from scrap drywall or a pre-cut patch kit.
2. Prepare the Area: Before you begin, clean up the edges of the hole by removing any loose debris, flaking drywall, or rough edges. Use a utility knife to smooth out the hole for a clean, even surface.
3. Use Mesh Tape for Cracks and Small Holes: For small cracks or holes (1-2 inches), apply mesh drywall tape over the hole. The mesh tape reinforces the patch and prevents future cracking. Once applied, spread a thin layer of joint compound over the tape, feathering out the edges.
4. Cut a Patch for Larger Holes: For larger holes, cut a piece of drywall slightly larger than the hole. Trace the outline of the patch on the wall and cut the hole to match. Install the patch with drywall screws into the wall studs, ensuring it’s secure.
5. Feather the Edges of Joint Compound: After applying the drywall patch, apply joint compound with a putty knife. Spread the compound over the patch, and feather the edges by applying less pressure at the outer edges to blend it into the surrounding wall. Let it dry completely.
6. Apply Multiple Thin Layers: For the smoothest result, apply multiple thin coats of joint compound rather than one thick layer. Sand between each layer with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any bumps or ridges.
7. Sand Smoothly: Once the joint compound is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, blending the patch with the surrounding wall. Be sure to sand lightly to avoid damaging the drywall surface.
8. Prime Before Painting: Always apply a coat of primer to the patched area before painting. This helps the paint adhere evenly and prevents the patch from being visible through the paint. Once primed, repaint the area to match the rest of the wall.
9. Blend the Texture: If your wall has a textured finish, you’ll need to recreate the texture to match the repaired area. Use a spray texture or a texture roller, depending on the original finish, and blend it into the surrounding surface.
10. Take Your Time: Drywall repair takes time and patience, so don’t rush through the process. Allow each layer of joint compound to dry fully before sanding and applying the next layer for the best results.
By following these tips, your drywall repair will be seamless, smooth, and ready to paint, leaving no trace of the original hole!
Thank you for reading our article on how to repair hole in drywall and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Don’t forget to share our articles with your friends by using the social media widgets.
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