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DIY Drywall Repair: Tips And Tricks For a Perfect Finish

Drywall Repair

It may be time for some TLC and an update if you frequently gaze at your home’s damaged walls and ceilings. Gypsum wallboard, also known as drywall repair or by its brand name, Sheetrock, is used to cover the interiors of the majority of homes. Although drywall is somewhat resistant to damage, it can only withstand so much before you start to notice dents, holes, and cracks—especially if you have young children or animals roaming around.

Fortunately, most drywall damage is quickly and simply fixable. It would help if you had simple tools, the appropriate supplies, and trade secrets.  This step-by-step DIY drywall repair service will show you how to fix it, from doorknob damage to window cracks to saggy ceilings, but first, let’s discuss some safety precautions.

Safe Work Practices for Drywall Repair Services

Lift Cautiously

It’s better to buy large 4-by-8-foot sheets of drywall and then cut them down to size as needed for mending major damage. However, remember that a whole sheet of normal 1/2-inch drywall weighs around 54 pounds.

Because drywall sheets are difficult to handle and carry, you’ll want to avoid hurting your back. Always work with a helper whenever possible, and remember to lift with your knees rather than your back. Also, use caution while leaning drywall sheets against things. A sheet that falls over could seriously damage someone, especially a child or pet.

Empty Bucket Warning

Premixed joint compound comes in various sizes that can be used around the house and yard once empty. Toddlers, on the other hand, are at risk from five-gallon buckets. The buckets are just high enough that if a tiny child leans over the side, they will fall headfirst and be unable to scramble out. As a result, if you use the bucket to transport water, never leave it alone, even if it just holds a few inches of water. Also, never keep buckets outside where they can fill with rainwater, posing a drowning hazard.

If the buckets are usually used for transporting and storing tools, gardening supplies, and other dry products, drill drainage holes to prevent the danger of a youngster drowning.

Clean Up The Dust 

Sanding joint compound is frequently necessary for drywall repairs to create a smooth, imperfect-free surface. However, the super-fine gypsum and silica particles in joint compound dust are respiratory irritants. Always use a dust mask or, even better, a dual-cartridge respirator to protect your lungs when sanding joint compound.

The floor you’re sanding should also be covered with a drop cloth. Finish by vacuuming after the air has settled. Because most household vacuums can’t capture super-fine sanding dust and will only blow it back into the air, a two-step cleaning process is required.

Know What Compound You Need 

Lightweight and all-purpose premixed drywall compounds, also known as spackle, are the two most popular varieties.  The lightweight product is about one-third lighter than all-purpose, dries faster, and sands more easily. The average cost of an all-purpose compound is lower and dries more quickly.

Both types have an approximate nine-month shelf life at room temperature and are simple to apply. Purchase a five-gallon compound bucket if you have drywall damage in multiple rooms.  Something like this will do for minor repairs.

Be aware that powdered dry-mix joint compound is another option. Before application, it must be diluted with water to the proper consistency. Pre-mixed compounds are easier and faster for do-it-yourself repairs, but dry-mix compounds are more affordable.

Nails That Go Pop 

Lumber shrinkage also contributes to nail and screw pops. Start by carving away the joint compound from the fastener head with the tip of a utility knife to fix a popped nail or screw.

Tighten the screw with a screwdriver and bury it deeply.  If the nail has popped, tap it in further with a hammer and nail set. If the nail feels as though it isn’t making contact with solid wood, pull it out with pliers and insert a drywall screw, making sure to strike the wall stud or ceiling joist in the center.

Cover the repair using three light coats of joint compound and a drywall knife. Sand in between coats before priming and painting.

Textured Ceilings 

A drywall ceiling will typically show signs of damage, but in some extreme circumstances, the drywall may actually sag down from the joists.  A textured ceiling presents a particularly challenging repair. To start, sand the area with a hand-sanding pad and sanding screen to get rid of the texture.

Loose-Inside Corner Type 

The paper drywall tape and several thin layers of joint compound cover any seams between drywall sheets. In bathrooms where the tape is frequently exposed to hot, humid air, the paper tape occasionally comes loose and starts to peel up. And inside wall corners are where this issue frequently arises.

Although it may be tempting, it is best to cut the loose tape out with a utility knife and replace it with a fresh piece rather than simply gluing it down. 

Wrapping it Up

Try using these DIY drywall repair tricks and make your wall perfect. This will give you the results exactly how you want. With these tricks, you’re more than ready to start a project.  

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