Drywall is a common building material used in many homes to form partitions and walls. It’s easy to install and relatively inexpensive, but it’s not infallible. Everyday wear and tear and accidents can leave your drywall with small dents, scratches, and holes. Fixing damaged drywall can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can make your walls look as good as new. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to drywall repair that you can use to cover the most common types of damage to your walls.
With the help of professional Handyman Naperville IL services, you can fix your damaged drywall quickly and easily.
Small Holes:
Small nail holes and other small punctures in your drywall are easy to fix. All you need is putty, sandpaper, and paint. Start by filling the hole with putty using your index finger or a knife. Once the putty has dried, sand it down to make it flush with the wall. Apply another coat of putty and use a wet finger to smooth it out. After drying, paint the wall to match its original color.
Medium Holes:
Medium-sized holes (about two to four inches in diameter) are more challenging than small holes but are still repairable. Start by removing any loose drywall around the hole with a putty knife. Cut a square piece of drywall larger than the hole, and use it to patch the gap. Hold the patch in place with drywall screws and cover the edges with mesh drywall tape. Then, apply the joint compound over the tape, and allow it to dry. Sand the surface down, apply another coat of putty, and finish the job with one last coat of paint.
Large Holes:
Some situations, such as a doorknob punching through the wall, may create a hole larger than six inches in diameter. Start by creating an opening that goes from the center of the damaged area to its nearest corner. Then, a drywall square should be used to mark a new piece of drywall to replace the removed section. Use screws to attach the new drywall to the studs, and cover the edges with mesh drywall tape. Apply joint compound over the tape, dry it, and sand it to create a smooth surface. Finish the process by applying several coats of paint, letting them dry, and sanding between each coat.
Cracks:
Various factors, including settling, warping, or moisture damage, can cause drywall cracks. If the crack is small (less than 1/4 inch wide), use joint compound and paint to cover it. Apply joint compound over the crack with a putty or taping knife, let it dry, and then smooth it out with sandpaper. If the crack is more extensive, it may be necessary to open it wider before covering it.
Water Damage:
Water damage in drywall is usually noticeable as stains, bubbling, or sagging. The first step is to remove the wet area of the drywall, then clean and dry it thoroughly. If the damage is more extensive, such as swollen walls, it may be necessary to call in a professional. This is because swelling can cause structural damage to the wall itself. Once the wall is dry and replaced, cover it with joint compound, and finish it with paint.
Alternatives to Traditional Drywall Repairs
Regarding home repairs, fixing drywall is one of the most common issues homeowners face. However, traditional drywall repairs can be time-consuming, messy, and expensive. Fortunately, several alternatives to traditional drywall repairs provide quick and affordable solutions.
One option is using self-adhesive mesh tape and spackling compounds to repair cracks and holes. Another option is using a drywall patch kit, which involves cutting out the damaged portion of the drywall and replacing it with a new piece. Lastly, a drywall repair kit that includes a pre-cut patch and joint compound for larger areas of damage can be a great alternative to a full replacement.
With these alternatives, you can easily repair your drywall without breaking the bank or enduring a messy and time-consuming process.
Fixing drywall damage is easy with the right tools and techniques. However, it’s important to take the time to evaluate the damage and see where your DIY skills lie. While some repairs are manageable for the average homeowner, others may require professional help. In any case, pay attention to safety, follow standard procedures, and take your time, and you’ll have a good-looking repair job in no time.