DIY Network

Ceiling Drywall Repair and Dryer Vent Upgrade Tracking down the source of a leaky ceiling leads to discovery of a potential hazard. From "Finders Fixers" episode DFFX-113

A mysterious drip in the ceiling of Stacey Fusaro and Derrick LaRosa's master bedroom is not only annoying, it's linked to something more dangerous than they realize.

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The repaired bedroom ceiling

Project Overview

In this DIY project Tim Hockenberry, home inspector and host of DIY's Finders Fixers, helps the homeowners track down the annoying drip in the ceiling of their master bedroom and, while investigating the problem, spots a more dangerous fire hazard at the laundry closet dryer. Tim helps the homeowners address that issue as well.

Repairs include fixing leaks in AC and dryer vent pipes in the ceiling cavity, proper ceiling drywall patch and replacement, replacing a hazardous vinyl dryer-vent with proper metal venting and replacing the exterior dryer-vent discharge.

The basic steps and materials used in the major repairs are outlined below.

Fix #1: Redirect Dryer Vent away from AC Bent

Materials:

drop cloth
drywall saw
carpenter's square
utility knife
drywall mud
fine grit sandpaper
primer and paint

• First, lay down a drop cloth and then begin squaring off the hole in the ceiling using a drywall saw (figure A).

• Next, seal the hole in the vent with aluminum tape (figure B).

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

• Separate the AC and dryer vents as much as possible, and secure them in place (figure C).

• After you've redirected the dryer vent away from the AC vent, now you can patch up the hole. Begin by cleaning up the edges by removing any spare screws (figure D).

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

• Measure the drywall and cut to size (figure E).

• Screw the drywall in place (figure F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

  Figure G

• Apply the first layer of drywall mud to create a seal. Allow to dry completely, sand down, and repeat as needed (figure G).

• To complete the look, prime and paint the ceiling.

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