7 Steps for Repairing a Drywall Hole
Step 1: Remove Damaged Wall
Before fixing drywall, you must remove the damaged portion. First, use a stud finder and find the studs in the walls. Cut a square or rectangle box around the damaged hole, making sure to cut between the studs. You can easily do this using a keyhole saw. Once the box is cut, use a pry bar to remove the piece.
Step 2: Adding New Drywall
Next, use the old drywall section to gauge how large your new piece will need to be cut. Once you have a new piece of drywall ready, screw it into place. Using joint compound, amply apply a coat around the edges and corners of the new section. Do this step using a 4 inch taping knife. Make sure you draw the knife across the joints using a 45 decree angle against the drywall.
Step 3: Apply Tape
The next step is to apply tape to the center of the joint compound, making sure to feather the edges. Once the tape is secured, apply a thin layer of joint compound on top. As soon as the area has dried, use wet sandpaper to smooth the drywall.
Step 4: Second Joint Compound Layer
Next, use a larger, 6 inch taping knife to apply a second coat of joint compound to the new drywall edges. Make sure to feather the edges again and use wet sandpaper when the area dries.
Step 5: Third Joint Compound Layer
If you thought you had used a lot of joint compound in the past, think again. Now use a 10 inch taping knife at a 45 degree angle to apply another coat of the compound to the drywall. This time you don’t have to go overboard with the amount. Use just enough to cover the last layer.
Step 6: Feathering Edges
Using the same 10 inch taping knife, feather the edges of the third joint compound layer. Do your best to remove all edges and ridges. Once the drywall area dries, do a final sanding.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Using a sanding block and wet sponge, it is now time to remove all the imperfections in the new drywall. Once the patch looks as good as the rest of the drywall, your job is complete.
