Drywall repair is a common home repair

As a general contractor I get the opportunity to look at a lot of different homes. One of the most common repair needs is repairing damaged drywall.

Drywall is the material most commonly used to construct interior walls in houses built since World War II because it is quicker to install than plaster. Although drywall can dent or puncture more easily than plaster, it is easier for the average homeowner to repair.

Drywall, also called wallboard, gypsum board or plasterboard, is often simply known by the brand name of Sheetrock. It consists of a hard gypsum core sandwiched between plies of fiberboard, paper or felt. Drywall is sold in 4-foot by 8-foot or 4-foot by 12-foot sheets that are nailed or screwed to wall studs.

To repair drywall, please use the following steps:

Patching small holes

Clean away all loose drywall and loose paper. Leave the inner surface of the gypsum rough. Cut a piece of nylon screen about two inches larger than the hole.

Tie one end of a 12-inch string to a small stick; thread the other end of the string through the center of the string. Bend the screen and insert the stick into the hole.

Pull on the string so the stick holds the screen flat against back of the hole. Holding the string taut, fill the hole with the joint compound, working it in from the edge.

Make sure the compound adheres to the mesh. Tape the string tightly against the wall with masking tape. When the compound has dried completely (24 hours), cut the string flush to the wall.

Note:  The joint compound will shrink so always apply at least one second coat. Most of the time it will take three coats.

Finishing after repair

No matter how small or how large the repair, the method for finishing is the same. With a wide joint knife spread a smooth, thin alayer of joint compound over the repaired area.

Extend beyond the edges of repaired area and feather out to the surrounding wall. When the compound is dry, sand with a fine grade drywall sandpaper on a sanding block. Make sure you wear a dust mask when sanding.

You may have to repeat the process several times until you are satisfied with the final result.

When cleaning with any cleaning product, always wear eye protection and rubber gloves to protect your hands. If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266), email them to madan@nwees.com or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What would Ed do?  For more information about Ed, and his new Handiman Services, check him out at NWEES.COM.

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection & remediation/restoration contractor. Ed is the president of Northwest Environmental Services, Inc.