January 7, 2020 When it comes to patching drywall, the size of the hole you’re patching matters a great deal in determining what that repair will look like. Drywall tape or self-adhesive patches work for those holes a mere five or six inches across. But for larger holes, you should use a different method so that the patch holds up over time and looks nice.
How Big Hole Repairs Work
Holes larger than six inchesRepairing holes that are more significant in size requires a few steps:
Take inventory Before breaking out the tools, you need to assess how much damge has been done. For example, if the drywall is damaged, more often than not it will need to be removed.
Select materials: Rigid material like drywall patches, or boards to bridge the opening. If you need to reinforce these patches, self-adhesive fiberglass mesh tape is a great product that will both bond the patch together with enough strength and provide some additional stability12.
Step-by-Step Repair Process
Clean around the hole to get rid of loose debris and then: Trim a clean square or rectangle around the hole,if it is needed.drywall repair (ad)
Measure and Cut a Patch: Measure out enough drywall that fits in the hole snug. Especially screws or adhesive.
Add Mesh Tape: Wrap the perimeter of the patch with self-adhesive mesh tape, so it doesn’t leak and gives you a smooth finish1.
Mud and Sand: Spread joint compound over the tape and patch, feathering it out to blend with the wall. After careful drying, rubs with a sandpaper for good surface smoothness.
Touch Up: Simply prime over your new repair area and touch up with some paint to match the rest of your wall.
Tips for Successful Repairs
Pick Good Materials: Do some research and find the best drywall tape and joint compound money can buy.
Its going to take multiple coats so be patient, let the layers of mud dry completely before sanding or applying for a perfect finish.
Get Professional Help: For severe damage or inexperienced DIY-types, outsourcing to a professional is the best option.
Following these steps and with the right materials, you too can repair holes in drywall large enough to notice both functionally and visually from a distance.
