How to Do Your Own Drywall Repair
Drywall repair is one of the most common and inexpensive home improvement projects, and it requires little experience and a few tools. However, if you have a bigger repair to tackle that requires cutting out and replacing sections of drywall, it’s best to call in a professional.
Small Holes & Dents
The most basic and simplest repair for a drywall hole is to use a patch kit. These kits typically contain a fiberglass mesh patch with an adhesive backing that attaches to the drywall. It’s simple to apply, and you can sand it smooth after it’s done.
Once you’ve applied the patch, you need to seal it so that it doesn’t absorb moisture from any latex paints in your walls. This will prevent blisters and keep your paint job looking good for years to come.
Depending on the size of your patch, you may need to apply two or more layers of joint compound. The first coat will cover the patch and help to hold it in place while the second will smooth and blend it.
After the first layer of compound has dried, you can sand the area and apply touch-up paint to blend it with the rest of the wall. This is especially important if you’re painting the repaired area in a color that will stand out from the rest of your room.
Step 1: Locate the studs
To locate the studs in the wall, you need a stud finder and a carpenter’s square. The studs are the wood members that run along your wall. These are the same wood members that support your electrical wiring and plumbing. They’re also where your drywall screws or other fasteners are going to be placed when you install the new drywall.
Once you’ve identified the studs, you can mark where the studs are on each side of the hole with your carpenter’s square and pencil. Be sure to extend the damaged area at least an inch from either side of the hole and between the centers of each stud on both sides.
Next, you’ll need to cut out a section of drywall that’s the same thickness as the piece of drywall you’re replacing. To do this, take the section of drywall you’ve just cut out to your local hardware store and ask a salesperson for assistance in finding a piece of drywall that is the same thickness as the damaged drywall. They’ll be able to help you figure out how much drywall you need and where to get it from the store.
If you’re repairing a hole, it’s always a good idea to make sure that there aren’t any wires or pipes running through the space behind the hole before you try to repair it. Even if you think the drywall is solid, it’s a good idea to shine a flashlight into the hole and check for wires and pipes.
Most drywall damage, like holes, dents, and scrapes, are easy to fix with spackle and a putty knife. This kind of gypsum compound will fill in small scratches and holes, and it’s available at most hardware stores. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and let it dry before sanding or applying any touch-up paint.