Drywall Repair

Do-It-Yourself Project

Everyone makes mistakes or accidentally knocks a hole in the wall. But don't worry they are not difficult to fix. Whether the holes are large or small they are an easy, smooth repair that will have you wondering where they were when you are finished. 

Step 1

Safety first. Since the process of sanding involves the removal of material it creates airborne dust. We recommend safety glasses or goggles, work gloves, a work apron or close fitting clothing and an approved dust/mist respirator.

 

Step 2 

Make sure the surface to be repaired is clean and smooth. Start out by smoothing the surface by sanding with 100 grit sandpaper, 120 grit sand screen or a medium grit sanding sponge. We recommend using the Extra Large Paint & Drywall sponge. This oversized sponge is made for ease of sanding drywall surfaces. Use the table below for a reference guide.

 

Step 3 

Apply mesh reinforcement tape over the hole so the mesh extends beyond the hole by 1" around the entire circumference of the hole. Apply a second layer of mesh reinforcement at a 45° angle to the first layer of mesh reinforcement tape.

 

Step 4

Apply a smooth layer of joint compound using a drywall knife or compound spreader. Hold the knife/spreader at a 45° angle to the surface pulling the compound over the reinforcement tape. Be sure to spread enough joint compound to adequately cover the mesh reinforcement tape. Taper the joint compound past the edge of the mesh reinforcement by 2-3 inches. Try to leave smooth edges on the outside rim of the joint compound.

 

 

Step 5 

Let the joint compound dry for 4-8 hours depending on temperature and humidity. To determine if the joint compound is thoroughly dry, run a piece of sandpaper  over the joint compound. If the surface balls up and is soft to the touch it is not ready to be sanded.

Step 6

Once the surface is thoroughly dry carefully sand the surface using an 80 or 100 grit sandpaper, 120 grit sand screen, a medium grit sanding sponge or Norton's Drywall Hand Sanding Sponge Kit

When hand sanding large flat areas use a rubber sanding block  to support the sandpaper to make sure the sanding surface is completely flat.

 

Step 7

When the surface has been sanded, clean the drywall dust using a wet sponge or tack cloth.

Step 8

Apply a second coat of joint compound in the same fashion as the first coat. This coat should go on smoother than the first coat of joint compound. Again wait 4 - 8 hours for the joint compound to dry.

Step 9

Once thoroughly dry, usea 100 or 120 grit sandpaper, 150 or 220 grit sand screen or Fine sanding sponge to smooth out the joint compound. Pay special attention to properly sand and smooth the outer edge of the joint compound so that it blends with the existing wall.

 

Step10

When the surface has been sufficiently sanded to a smooth, even surface, clean the drywall dust using a wet sponge or tack cloth. Congratulations the holes are now gone!

Norton Project Planning Form