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September 04, 2010 |
Related Hole Patch
and Repair Articles
and Repair Articles
How to Repair a Small Hole in Drywall
Moving out of the smallest hole sizes and into wider openings, the repair takes a technique that will provide some structure to the fix.Patches up to 3 Inches Across
The increase in hole sizes normally require added reinforcement for the patching compound. To repair penetrations through the drywall up to 2.5" to 3" structural technique is applied. One that takes advantage of the virtues of mesh tape.1) Clear the inner edges of the hole. Remove any loose chunks and semi-attached pieces of gypsum which happen to be there and cut free any compromised paper membrane on the surface. Using a sharp breakaway knife will leave a clean edge but be sure to wear eye protection.
2) Determine the hole size and firmly press on mesh tape to cover the opening, intersection the tape at 180 degrees, forming a cross. For holes in the smaller ranges, apply 2" wide tape, and for holes spanning to 3" apply 4" wide fiberglass mesh. Make certain there is enough surface area on the tape for sticking on the wallboard. Adhering with greater than 1/2" at bare minimum anywhere.
This will give a double layer of tape coverage over the hole entrance, and
the adhesive backing needs no embedding. Make sure to make clean cuts
in the tape - the fiberglass
will naturally want to fray and the mesh should be without any lifting strands
whatsoever.3) With either multipurpose compound or a quick dry mix, from powder form, knife on the mud with a 4" knife blade. The mudd should be thin enough to flow down through the mesh backside and yet hold form without sagging. Press the blade evenly and flatly across the tape. Cover to a thin layer extending over the tape edges to a gradual float, depending on hole size.
4) After thoroughly dry, superficially abrade the surface with a sanding
block or sponge.
Have a sheet of plastic below to keep the dust off the flooring.A fine grit sander is best, particularly if surface is to receive paint having any gloss. Scratches from rought papers will show through.
5) Apply another coat of compound, broader still, and sand to finish after drying. Expect dust with an increase in patch sizes. If an even level has not been gotten, repeat until it does.
See Also
Mudding / Taping Tips Finishing
Other Patching and Repair
Drywall Ceiling Repair
Repair Ceiling Cuts, round
Repair Ceiling Texture Drywall Ceiling Hole Repair
Corner Bead Repair Repair Ceiling Cuts, square
Repair Ceiling Texture Drywall Ceiling Hole Repair
Corner Bead Repair Repair Ceiling Cuts, square