Can You Use a Floor Patch & Level to Fix Sheetrock?

Sheetrock Leveler

• The Sheetrock company produces a floor patch and leveling material intended to fill in damaged areas of drywall. The material is similar to a concrete patch: it is mixed together and troweled into place. The level is immediately effective on small damaged areas but can be used in large areas as well. If you have a deep hole or a wide crack, you may need to apply multiple layers of the material to fully cover the damaged area.

Surface Preparation

• The Sheetrock leveler and patch can only be applied to the surface if it is between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so avoid patching in extreme temperature conditions. Before applying, clean the surface with a rag or mop dampened in a solvent cleaner such as mineral spirits. This cleaner will remove surface dirt and dust as well as grease, wax and other contaminants that can ruin the bond between the patch and the sheetrock itself. Dry the surface with a lint-free towel, or allow it to air dry before continuing.

Leveler Preparation

• Mix two parts leveling/patch powder with one part warm water in a clean bucket. Stir with a paint stirrer, or mix with a paddle mixer attached to an electric drill. The material should gain a consistency similar to pancake batter. Only mix up enough material that you can apply within 10 minutes of mixing; otherwise it will dry and harden in the bucket and be unusable on the surface.

Applying the Leveler

• Spread the leveler over the damaged area with a concrete trowel. Apply the material only about 3/8 inches thick; if the damage is thicker than this, you will apply multiple thin layers, which will produce a stronger hold than a single thin layer. If necessary, allow the first layer to dry for an hour before applying the second. When you get the material completely into the damage, scrape the trowel across the surface to bring it completely level with the surrounding wall. Let the leveling patch dry for at least four hours before sanding or decorating over it.