Joint compound is a versatile material commonly used to repair imperfections in drywall, particularly for patching holes. Here’s how to use joint compound to repair medium-sized holes in walls, following a common patching method.
Repairing Medium Drywall Holes with Joint Compound
Fixing a medium hole in your wall involves creating a specific type of patch and applying joint compound in several key stages. This method creates a strong patch that can be finished smoothly to blend with the surrounding wall.
Here are the steps, highlighting the use of joint compound:
- Prepare the Patch: Start by cutting a piece of drywall larger than the hole. This will be your patch.
- Score the Back: Score the back of the drywall patch about an inch in from each edge.
- Snap Away Gypsum: Carefully snap away the gypsum core along the score lines, leaving the front paper layer intact. This creates a paper border around the gypsum patch.
- Trace on the Wall: Center the gypsum patch over the hole and trace around its paper border onto the wall with a pencil.
- Apply Joint Compound and Insert Patch: Apply joint compound liberally to the back of the paper border you created on your patch. Use joint compound here to adhere the patch. Insert the patch into the hole, pressing firmly so the paper border adheres to the wall around the hole. Wipe away excess compound that squeezes out.
- Cover the Patch: Once the patch is securely in place, use a drywall knife to apply a layer of joint compound over the entire patch, extending it past the paper border onto the surrounding wall. Use joint compound here to embed the patch and begin feathering the edges so the repair blends smoothly. The goal is to fill any gaps and create a flat surface.
- Apply Second Coat (If Needed): Allow the first coat of joint compound to dry completely. If the patch is still visible, uneven, or needs building up, apply a second, thin coat of joint compound. Use joint compound here to further smooth and feather the repair. It may require subsequent coats, allowing each to dry fully, until the repair is flush and seamless with the wall surface.
After the final coat of joint compound dries, the area is typically sanded smooth and prepared for primer and paint. This process effectively uses joint compound to bond the patch, cover the repair, and create a smooth, finished surface.
