Steps in Wallboard Repair

Repairing wallboard is a handy skill for a do-it-yourselfer to have. It will save you the cost of hiring a handyman to handle your inevitable wallboard repairs that can range from small nicks to hairline cracks to full-blown holes. Repairing drywall requires a few basic tools and inexpensive materials available at any home improvement or hardware store. Drywall repairs can be messy, so budget a bit of cleanup time when planning a drywall repair project.

Utility knife
Wood strips
Power drill
Wallboard screws
Fast-drying joint compound
Sandpaper
Drywall scrap pieces

Instructions

- 1
  Clear all crumbled wallboard from the area you plan to repair by cutting around it with a wallboard knife and pulling it out by hand.
- 2
  Spread wallboard tape over the damaged area if it is small or thin. For large holes, form a support by sticking a thin wood strip through the hole and, while holding the strip in place with one hand, drive a screw through the drywall and into the wood on each side of the hole; use additional wood for larger holes. Cut a piece of wallboard to fit the hole, attach it to the wood and tape along the seams.
- 3
  Use a drywall knife to apply a dollop of joint compound to the damaged area and spread it into a thin, even coat. Allow the compound to dry before applying a second coat. Allow the second coat to dry before applying the third and final coat.
- 4
  Smooth the area with sandpaper after the final coat has dried.

Procedures for Decorative Drywall Mudding

What Can You Do to Fix Tape Bubbling From a Drywall Job?

Wall Repairs