What Do I Need to Repair Ceiling Drywall?

Knives and Hand Tools

• A sharp utility knife, the only kind to have, is useful for cutting away damaged drywall and cutting new drywall to size for the repair project. A drywall saw is also useful for cutting materials. Other hand tools include putty knives in a variety of sizes, including an inside-corner knife with a blade shaped to fit into a corner. Tools such as a screwdriver, hammer and tape measure are also necessary and commonly available.

Power Tools

• Rotary saws are useful for cutting through drywall either in place on the wall or on a sawhorse. These tools save time compared to cutting with a utility knife or a drywall saw. A power drill is necessary for creating small holes through the drywall. Not all repair jobs will require power tools.

Drywall

• Repairs that involve replacing a portion of the ceiling require some new drywall. Drywall is sold in sheets 4-feet wide in various lengths. It is also available in various thicknesses. For a ceiling repair the new drywall needs to match the thickness of the old drywall. While ceiling drywall is commonly 3/8-inch thick, confirm the measurement before purchasing new materials. The new drywall is held in place with nails or screws, which are also required for the project.

Drywall Tape and Compound

• Drywall tape is available in two forms. Use paper tape to cover seams between two sheets of drywall material. Use mesh tape over small holes or other defects in the material. In either case the tape is covered with drywall compound or mud. The compound is premixed and available in different size buckets depending on the size of the project. Sandpaper and sanding blocks are necessary to smooth the compound to a paintable surface after it dries.