How to Patch a Hole In the Drywall
Drywalls easily get cracked; in the worst case, you might find a huge hole after a strong impact. Experts advise patching the holes properly, and this can be done by getting professional drywall repair installation. With proper technique and professional tools, patching a hole in a drywall becomes easier. It is generally considered a great idea to inspect your house to find holes that need filling and mending as a regular summer maintenance regime. Due to its speed and excellent results, drywall patching is considered one of the best home improvement tasks. With the help of the following guide, you can install a perfect patch.
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Resources Needed
There are numerous ways to repair surface flaws on your walls, from minor dents to significant holes. However, it will require certain tools and materials. Required resources for patching are
- Drill
- Drywall Saw
- Utility knife
- Taping knives
- Measurement tape
- Adhesive for construction
- Drywall tape
- Screws
- Joint Compound
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Examine the Damage
Consider the extent of the drywall damage before you proceed toward drywall repair installation and buying resources. It is important because you will need a handful of resources if the hole size is significant. Often, drywall tape is needed to reinforce the mud in place for larger holes. On the contrary, mesh tape is ideal for smaller holes. A drywall patch will be needed for holes that are bigger than this. Therefore, you should also measure the thickness of the drywall before patching.
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Prepare the Opening
Trim the hole’s edges to create a rectangular shape and straight sides. To mark the drywall’s cutting lines, use a standard pencil.
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Install the Backing Strips
Installation of a backing strip is equally important to support the patch. Use a piece of plywood and cut it into a rectangle. However, make sure that the size of the backing strip is bigger as compared to the size of the hole. Using drywall screws inserted into the strip and through it, hold the strip into its place. The screws should be placed 6 inches apart and at least an inch away from the edge of the drywall. Install the second strip on the other edge of the hole using the same procedure as before. Make sure that half of the strip is visible from the hole opening.
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Patch Preparation
To ensure a good fit when cutting the patch, measure the hole properly and deduct approximately a quarter inch. A jab saw could be used to carve out a unique piece, although it will create a lot of mess which should be cleaned afterward.
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Patch Installation
After you have measured and cut the patch approximately to the hole size, proceed toward the installation. If there is any trouble securing the patch, find the problem area and fix it. During drywall repair installation, you must avoid forcing the patch inside the hole opening. This will break the patch, for which you will have to make a new one. Use a putty knife to remove any excess material from any unfitting areas. Once corrected, place the patch in its position and fasten it with the screws.
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Seams Must be Taped
Using a utility knife, trim the drywall joint tape into strips. A joint tape strip should be placed over each seam. At the corners, overlap the tape strips. For this, flat, wrinkle- and bulge-free tape should be used.
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Clean the Seams
Using a 6-inch drywall knife, apply a layer of joint compound over the drywall tape. Leave the compound over the tape for some time to let it get dry. Start scrapping the surface using a knife to get rid of any burrs or clumps. After that, apply another layer of joint compound, extending to the patch’s edges.
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Priming and Painting the Patch
After you have successfully patched the drywall, prime and repaint the area. Using a high-quality paintbrush, apply a layer of primer over the patched area and let it dry. To match the surroundings, if necessary, apply the same color paint. Alternatively, if the wall or ceiling needs to be painted, it is the best time. Repaint the complete wall to give the patched area are more defined look. No matter if the color of the paint is the same, a fresh paint coat can occasionally appear more vivid than old paint that fades with time.
Any drywall hole larger than six inches must be repaired differently than a smaller hole. Smaller holes that are generally the size of a coin can be covered simply by using tape. However, larger holes require a more defined approach to fix them. Luckily drywall repair installation can be done by calling experts who have good experience in patching holes. Although, the simple steps mentioned above can be followed for perfect patching and excellent results.
