Drywall is a highly versatile and reliable product that is a crucial part of every new construction project and renovation. While drywall is invaluable for projects of all sizes, it can be messy and difficult to work with at times. Knowing how to patch a hole in drywall is crucial for ensuring that your project stays on track while minimizing waste and maintaining a high level of quality. That is why the experts at Country Lumber have provided some information on drywall repair procedures to help you make any required repairs in a timely manner. While all holes in drywall will require repair, the method used will vary based on the size of the hole being repaired.
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How to Fill Small Drywall Holes
A small hole in drywall is usually caused by a hardware-related accident. These holes are typically no larger than 2 inches and can be fixed using spackle or wood filler. To patch small holes, adhere to the following procedure:
1. Sand down the edges of the hole and remove any debris.
2. Scoop some spackle or wood filler into the hole using a trowel or putty knife and flatten it out. Spackle shrinks as it dries, so be liberal with the amount used.
3. Wait for the spackle to completely dry and sand it until the surface is smooth.
How to Patch Medium-Sized Holes in Drywall
Medium holes in drywall are often created by doorknobs or other objects of a similar size. To fix medium drywall holes, you will need to use an adhesive mesh patch and follow the steps below:
1. Place the adhesive mesh patch over the hole in the wall.
2. Using a drywall knife, scoop drywall joint compound or spackle onto the patch and begin spreading it across the surface of the patch towards the edges.
3. Feather the edges of the joint compound or spackle to blend it into the wall by increasing pressure at the edges of the patch.
4. Let the patch dry and sand it flat.
5. Apply a second coat by repeating steps 1-4. If the pattern of the mesh is still visible, add a third coat.
How to Repair Large Holes in Drywall
Large holes in drywall can typically occur from accidents where a person or piece of furniture accidentally makes a hole in the wall, though they can also be made deliberately when there is water damage to the drywall. To repair large drywall holes, you will typically need to purchase and cut a new piece of drywall. To ensure that the hole is properly fixed, complete the following actions:
1. Cut a square out of the new drywall that is a bit bigger than the hole being fixed.
2. Hold the square over the hole and trace the outline onto the wall with a pencil.
3. Cut out the square shape from the wall.
4. Use drywall screws to screw furring strips in place on the sides of the square hole so that the furring strips overlap the edges of the hole.
5. Screw the square patch to the furring strips.
6. Tape the edges of the patch with drywall tape.
7. Using a drywall knife, scoop drywall joint compound or spackle onto the patch and begin spreading it across the surface of the patch towards the edges.
8. Feather the edges of the joint compound or spackle to blend into the wall by increasing pressure at the edges of the patch.
9. Let the patch dry and sand it flat.
10. Apply a second coat by repeating steps 7-9. If the pattern of the drywall tape is still visible through the sanded spackle, add a third coat.
To learn more about our selection of drywall products or to discuss the details of your project, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.