
- Cut a Drywall Patch. Cut a piece of drywall into a square shape that’s 2 inches larger in width and height than the area to be repaired.
- Score the Back of the Drywall
- Snap Away the Gypsum
- Trace Around the Gypsum on the Wall
- Apply Joint Compound and Insert Gypsum
- Cover the Patch With Joint Compound
- Reapply Second Coat of Compound if Needed. For holes larger than 6 inches, you'll create a drywall patch with a different attachment method for the repair.
What is the best way to cut drywall?
Method 1 Method 1 of 2: Cutting a Large Sheet of Drywall Download Article
- Measure where you need to cut your drywall with a tape measure. You should use whole drywall sheets when possible when you’re remodeling a room.
- Hold a drywall square or T-square against the drywall where you need to cut it. ...
- Run a utility knife along your square to cut the paper and some of the drywall core. ...
How to easily cut drywall with a Rotozip?
In order to repair drywall:
- First, make sure the old drywall is clean and in good condition.
- Use a stud finder to locate existing wall studs, then remove the damaged section of drywall between them with a utility or putty knife.
- Take down any exposed hardware or outer paper, then hang the new piece of drywall in the wall opening, along the edge of the old. ...
How to insulate ceiling without removing drywall?
Soundproofing Walls and Ceilings Without Removing Drywall
- Use Decor to Your Advantage. The decor can be very helpful when you’re soundproofing your place. ...
- Hang Fabrics on the Ceiling. Honestly, ceilings are notoriously hard to soundproof. ...
- Level up with Soundproofing Materials. ...
- Build on Top of the Existing Wall. ...
- Drop the Ceiling. ...
- Soundproof the Floor Above If You Can. ...
What tools do you use to cut drywall?
What tools do you need?
- Drywall Rasp
- Drywall keyhole saw
- Drywall saw
- Straight Edge
- Utility Knife
- Measuring tape
- Circle Cutter (if needed)

How do you repair a large section of drywall?
Fix Large HolesStep 1: Cut Out a Piece of Drywall to Use as the Patch. ... Step 2: Trace the Patch Size Over the Hole. ... Step 3: Cut Out the Hole. ... Step 4: Attach Furring Strips Inside the Hole. ... Step 5: Attach the Patch to Furring Strips. ... Step 6: Apply Joint Tape to the Patch. ... Step 7: Apply Joint Compound.
How do you cut damaged drywall?
6:3512:19How to cut out and install drywall on a water damaged drywall ceilingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPerfect fit so I've already cut out the damaged drywall using a keyhole saw and a razor. Knife. NextMorePerfect fit so I've already cut out the damaged drywall using a keyhole saw and a razor. Knife. Next you want to remove any of the drywall screws that are left over in the framing. Members then you
Can you cut a drywall repair patch?
Patches can be cut or overlapped as needed. Trowel on the first coat of joint compound over the patch, spreading the compound flat enough to see the outline of the mesh through it (Photo 2).
How do you repair drywall step by step?
StepsClean hole with blade knife. Cut at an angle so the exterior of the hole is bigger than the interior.Fill the hole with painter's putty. ... Let it dry. ... Spackle over the putty. ... For medium holes, use a drywall metal patch.Sand the surface smooth around the hole.Wipe off dust.Peel paper backing off the patch.More items...
What is the best tool to use to cut drywall?
The Razor Knife The most commonly used tool for cutting drywall is the razor or utility knife. You score the panel, apply some pressure, and snap! You've got a new, clean edge.
What is the easiest way to cut drywall?
0:559:16How to Cut Drywall Like a Pro - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo we're going to start off with the most essential yet most simple drywall tool and that's ourMoreSo we're going to start off with the most essential yet most simple drywall tool and that's our utility knife now what I will tell you is this is a mistake that many people make.
What's the difference in sheetrock and drywall?
Drywall is a flat panel made of gypsum plaster sandwiched in between two sheets of thick paper. It adheres to metal or wood studs using nails or screws. Sheetrock is a specific brand of drywall sheet. These terms are often used interchangeably.
Whats the difference between joint compound and spackle?
Joint compound is the better choice for taping and finishing drywall seams whereas spackle is the better choice for filling in small to large sized holes in your walls. Now, that doesn't mean you can't fill holes with a quality joint compound, but joint compound typically dries much slower than spackle.
How do you fix a 12x12 hole in drywall?
1:216:57How to patch and repair drywall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipChoose a patch that overlaps an inch or two past the edge of the hole. And press it firmly againstMoreChoose a patch that overlaps an inch or two past the edge of the hole. And press it firmly against your drywall.
Do it yourself repair drywall?
2:557:41How to Repair Drywall -- Buildipedia DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis. It's going to be pressing into that patch. It's going to give a little bit start with a kindMoreThis. It's going to be pressing into that patch. It's going to give a little bit start with a kind of thick. Use your panda. Clean off the knife. And go back. And work on your patch.
What sandpaper do you use for drywall?
Use 220-grit sandpaper and sand the areas with a light and easy touch. Avoid using coarse sandpaper below 100 grit as that may damage the drywall.
What tools are needed to install drywall?
ToolsUtility Knife.Drywall Saw.6-in, 10-in & 12-in Drywall/Taping Knives.Tin Snips or Scissors.Drill or Screw Gun.Sandpaper or Sanding Sponge.Tape Measure.Dust Mask.More items...
How do you cut drywall with a knife?
1:022:10How To Cut Drywall or Sheetrock With A Knife. Cutting Sheet Rock hacks.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe light side is the outer side of the drywall. So you're going to be drawing your line on theMoreThe light side is the outer side of the drywall. So you're going to be drawing your line on the lighter side scoring lighter side first then you're just going to take that piece of drywall. Move.
Can a Dremel cut drywall?
A Dremel is best used to cut holes in drywall that have specific curves and turns. You can cut drywall with a Dremel equipped with this drywall cutting bit. Use a Dremel to cut detailed lines with curves and turns. A Dremel is best used to cut holes in drywall for pipes and electrical boxes.
How do you clean and cut drywall?
5:097:06How To Cut Drywall EASILY (Get A Super Clean Cut) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCut just along the fold you're not trying to dig right through. But just be very gentle. And do aMoreCut just along the fold you're not trying to dig right through. But just be very gentle. And do a good job at keeping a straight line with the blade.
Can you cut drywall with a jigsaw?
The three main tools used to cut drywall are a utility knife, jigsaw, and oscillating multi-tool. The only way you could use a drill to cut sheetrock is if you use a roto-zip bit on it. However, you're better off to just use the roto-tool.
Small Dents and Dings
Scrape away loose debris from the hole. Cover the hole or dent with fast-drying spackle to bring the spackle level with the drywall surface and let it dry 24 hours -- or the time recommended by the manufacturer’s instructions. Sand smooth.
Popped Nail Heads
A popped nail isn't holding in the stud and backs out of the drywall, creating a popped nail head.
Small Holes
For small holes, like those created by a doorknob, a patch kit may be used.
Large Holes
For holes larger than 6 inches, you'll create a drywall patch with a different attachment method for the repair.
Corner Bead Patch
Corner bead is used where two pieces of drywall meet to form a corner. Corner bead is available in a variety of materials, including metal, paper and vinyl.
Finish the Repair
You're almost done. Here's where you make it look like nothing happened.
Repair Textured Drywall
Textured drywall is a bit more complicated, but still pretty simple to repair.
How to cut a thin strip of drywall?
If you are cutting a thin strip narrower than 3 in (7.6 cm) from the edge of your sheet of drywall, cut both the front and the back of the drywall with your utility knife before attempting to break the strip off. Flip the sheet of drywall over and make the same cut on the back.
How wide is a sheet of drywall?
Most whole sheets of drywall are 4 ft (1.2 m) wide. Choose a length of 8 ft (2.4 m), 9 ft (2.7 m), 10 ft (3.0 m), or 12 ft (3.7 m), depending on the height of your room. Measure the last gap at the top, middle, and bottom in case your wall is uneven. ...
How to measure a hole in a wall?
1. Measure and mark each corner of a square hole. With your tape measure, measure the distance from the top of the bare wall to the top left and right corners of the item you are making a hole for. Then measure from the top corners of the item to its bottom corners.
How to repair a sanded area?
If you cut corners on sanding, the repair site will be noticeable, so take your time. Once the repaired area is dry, use a fine-grit (100 or 120) sandpaper. After the first round of sanding, add a second layer of mud, spreading it about 2 inches beyond the boundaries of the first layer. Once dry, re-sand.
Is joint compound easier to sand?
DO keep it light. Less is generally more when it comes to joint compound. A thin coat is easier to sand, and you’ll be less likely to remove too much while sanding and expose the patch. Also, for joint compound to appear flush with the wall near the damage site, “feather” the mud as you apply it.
Is drywall indestructible?
Drywall is tough, but it’s not indestructible. Over time, gypsum-board walls can sustain ugly cracks or holes. Fortunately, drywall is fairly easy to repair, but there is an art to it. Here’s what to do—and what to avoid—when fixing drywall damage so it’s indiscernible to landlords, homebuyers, or visitors.
Do you need a mask when sanding drywall?
DO use protection. The fine particulate of drywall compound could injure your lungs if inhaled. So always wear a dust mask when sanding drywall compound. Disposable gloves are also a good idea to protect your hands from the dehydrating effects of gypsum dust.
Community Q&A
How can I find out if there are any pipes or wires behind the wall before I start cutting?
Warnings
Always wear protective goggles and a face mask to keep drywall dust out of your eyes and mouth.
About This Article
This article was co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle. Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman Boston. With over 15 years of experience, Ryaan specializes in home improvement and property maintenance by leveraging technology and craftsmanship.
How to cut gypsum panel?
To cut the new panel, place a straight edge against your line and score it with a utility knife. With the scrap edge hanging over a flat surface just beyond your score, quickly snap the piece downward to break the gypsum. Flip over your panel and cut the backing paper to remove the excess. Do this for all sides to be cut.
What size knife do I use to remove gypsum?
Joint and taping knives (I prefer a 6 inch and a 12 inch for most jobs) Sand paper (120 to 150-grit or drywall paper is best) Rag or sponge. Saw for removing damaged gypsum (this can be as basic as a “jab saw” or a power tool such as an oscillating multi-tool)
How thick is gypsum board?
Measure the thickness or depth of the existing gypsum board as well as the size of your newly formed hole. Gypsum comes in four thicknesses in most homes: – 1/4″ – generally used in curved applications, it is not common but may exist in some homes and is available but hard to find at most stores.
What do you do when you are satisfied with your joints?
Finishing. When you are satisfied with your joints, apply a coat of primer or your first coat of paint. At this time if you discover any imperfections, dips or divots, you can still add a small amount of joint compound and sand to correct before painting. Congratulations, you’ve completed your first drywall repair!
What to cover a floor with before starting?
Cover the floor you will be working on with poly or a another covering such as a drop cloth or old sheet.
Do it yourself drywall?
Do It Yourself : How to Repair / Replace a Section of Drywall. As a homeowner, it can sometimes be helpful to know how to repair drywall yourself. The primary reasons for this could be damage incurred while moving furniture, replacement of a window or door, cutting current drywall for a new light fixture, etc. ...
