In 2023, there is no home renovation project that can only be executed with the help of professionals. With the internet to guide you and all the necessary resources available, any DIY project can become successful. However, with the wrong mindset and gadgets, you could further damage the targeted sites. Drywall repair is one such activity, where even the wrong analysis could compromise the entire project. We have crafted a precise DIY guide on repairing drywalls to save you from frustration and financial loss. Without further ado, let us explore!
Assess and Plan
Before starting, take the time to get familiar with the walls you aim to fix. We suggest carefully inspecting any dents or different-sized sections in the walls. The purpose is to gauge the area, the extent of damage, and more factors. This will help you build a list of materials and required quantities to avoid overspending or purchasing unnecessary tools. By creating a plan of action, you will analyze the budget, required time, and manpower to see whether this is executable in the present or if it will be a thing of the foreseeable future. Moreover, keep some extra budget to cope with emergencies; better be safe than sorry. Remember, unquestioningly jumping into a DIY repair can be risky, but awareness can help minimize it.
Get Your Tools
Categorize your repair as minor, moderate, or major. You will be able to plan your toolkit accordingly.
- Minor Repairs: Any minor damages will require tools, including a putty knife, sandpaper, compound, primer, and paint. Minimal issues can be resolved by utilizing the basic items, and don’t require much effort or time.
- Moderate Repairs: This level of repairs isn’t as demanding but can still take up considerable time and concentration. Apart from the tools mentioned above, you will need drywall tape, patching material, compound, and cleaning supplies to scrape off excess putty.
- Major Repairs: For this category of drywall repairs, one has to bring out the big guns. It isn’t necessarily costly but will require precaution and effort. Saws, drills, tape, and cleaning materials will be needed in addition to the basic supplies for minor repairs.
Carefully Handle the Putty
Applying the putty isn’t as simple as it sounds. The compound has to be properly measured; too little might require you to mix again, whereas mixing too much could end up in waste. So to avoid both scenarios, we analyze the targeted sites and mix them accordingly. You have to consider the following factors when mixing and applying the putty:
- Take a moderate amount of compound and pour water with mixing breaks
- The paste must not be too thick or too thin but just the right mix of water to compound ratio
- You have to spread the paste around to smoothen out the specific areas
- The smaller and more uniform the spread, the better it will hold
- Let the compound dry for at least 12 hours before resuming the repair
Cut and Install the Patch
First, you have to prepare and smoothen out the installation site. For moderate or significantly damaged sites, measure the respective areas with a measuring tape and cut out the respective sections from the patch. Double-check by loosely putting it in the targeted site to see if it’s a snug fit. Any additional material can be sanded down to adapt accordingly.
Seal and Sand
Once installed, you can seal the deal by applying the joint compound over the site and surrounding areas. Fill the edges, gaps, spaces, and minute scratches with the material. Let the wall dry for at least 24 hours so the entire combination can gel together and form a layer. You can then finish the job by sanding down excess material the next day.
Paint and Polish
Take a look at the wall and let your eyes wander over the entire expanse to check for any missing spots or uneven layers. Once you are satisfied with its appearance, start applying your chosen paint. You can do a little test by patch-testing the site with any other non-treated site on the wall. If the difference is greatly noticeable, you might have to work harder to cover up. Otherwise, you can get on with the process and finish the repair process.
Avoid Layering Over Nails and Cords
Being negligent won’t work well in your favor. Painting or layering the joint over the most minor elements on the wall is strongly advised against. Because it could negatively impact the entirety of your project. Carefully get rid of any small hindrances or objects on the wall to execute a smooth and even job.
At Cortes Painting, we aim to provide reliable painting and repair services. You can get a free quote for any of our services using this form or call us at 919-730-5654.
