How to Fix Drywall Damage
Drywall Repair: Fixing Damage to Your Walls
Eventually, almost all homeowners need to fix drywall damage. Drywall may be a versatile building material, but it's susceptible to holes, cracks and popped nails.
Drywall Repair Kits
A drywall repair kit can be created with little expense, and it makes wall repairs easier. The following tools and materials should be in a drywall repair kit:
- Drill
- Drywall and joint compound
- Drywall nails and screws
- Drywall saw
- Dust mask
- Flexible drywall knives (3-, 6- and 8-inch widths)
- Hammer
- Inside corner knife
- Mesh tape
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife.
How to Fix Drywall Holes
Without doorstops, doorknobs can punch right through drywall when doors swing open. To fix drywall holes, cover the hole with a peel-and-stick aluminum mesh wall patch. Apply three layers of drywall compound to the hole with a 4- or 6-inch wide drywall knife, smoothing each coat with the knife.
How to Drywall Corner Damage
Drywall corners are covered with metal corner beads. Corner wall repair is more difficult than patching a simple hole, but most DIY enthusiasts should be able to fix a damaged drywall corner.
Using a hacksaw, cut away the section of metal corner bead that needs replacing. You'll need a nail bar to pry off the damaged section. Cut a replacement section of corner bead to fit the damaged area and attach it with nails. Apply several coats of drywall compound, making sure to smooth each coat.
How to Drywall Popped Nails
Popped nails and screws are common wall repair problems. As homes age lumber used in their construction shrinks, causing nails or screws to protrude out of drywall.
To repair drywall screws, take a utility knife and carefully carve away the joint compound around the nail or screw. Tighten the screw or hammer in the nail. Apply three coats of lightweight joint compound to complete your drywall repair.