How to Patch Drywall Moisture Damage From a Shower

Water splashed repeatedly on drywall, such as from a shower, can eventually cause that area of the wall to crumble and fall apart, leaving a hole. Use drywall patching compound and mesh screening to fill in and patch holes in your bathroom walls. All materials for this repair job are available at hardware and home improvement stores. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may take two days or more to fix deep holes, allowing time for the patching compound to dry as you add more layers.

Flexible screen material for drywall repairs
Scissors
Drywall patching compound
Putty knife
Fine-grit sandpaper
Rag
Paint
Roller brush

Instructions

- 1
  Adjust the shower head and curtain or door so water cannot strike the drywall. If the moisture problem involves leaking pipes inside the wall, have a plumber fix these issues before attempting to repair the wall. Let the wall dry completely before proceeding.
- 2
  Cut a piece of flexible screen material with scissors to roughly the same size as the hole to be patched.
- 3
  Push the flexible screen material into the hole, pressing in the center so the edges of the screen fit along the inside edges of the hole. The screen material gives the drywall compound something to cling to for patching large holes.
- 4
  Work the patching compound into the damaged area with a putty knife. Let the compound dry overnight if filling deep holes then apply additional layers until the damaged space is filled in completely.
- 5
  Sand the wall smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe the wall surface with a damp rag to remove any dust from the patching compound.
- 6
  Paint the repair in a matching color with the surrounding wall, applying it with a roller brush for a smooth, even coat.

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