DIY Network

Drywall Patch From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-309F

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

The previous owners of the Birds' home had installed speakers in the staircase area. When the previous homeowners moved, they took the speakers, but left unsightly holes and exposed wiring. Host Amy Devers guides Kay Bird through a simple drywall patch.

Materials:

Utility knife
Speed square
Drywall scrap
Quick-drying joint compound
Fine-grit sandpaper
A block of wood

1. Measure around the opening and use a speed square to mark a square around the area. Use a utility knife to square the edges of the opening.

2. Measure the square, then transfer the measurement to a larger piece of drywall that will serve as the patch. Trim the piece to one and half-inches larger than the square (figure A).

3. Remove part of the drywall material around the square, leaving the drywall paper on one side of the patch (figure B).

4. Dry fit the patch by inserting the patch into the square hole in the wall.

5. Adjust as necessary to achieve a good fit, then cover the wall area with drywall mud (figure C).

6. Insert the patch into the hole (figure D) and press edges into the drywall mud to adhere.

7. Cover the patch with drywall mud (figure E), feather the edges away from the edges of the patch and allow to dry.

8. Sand the area smooth (figure F) and paint as desired.