How to repair a large hole in drywall

Repair a Large Hole in Drywall

4400
STEPS
TOOLS

Using a straight edge and pencil, mark a square slightly larger than the damaged drywall hole.

Using a straight edge and pencil, mark a square slightly larger than the damaged drywall hole.

Then use the straight edge and utility knife to score along the square's edge. Make cuts toward the center to easily remove the drywall.

Using some scrap drywall, measure and cut out a drywall replacement piece.

Using some scrap drywall, measure and cut out a drywall replacement piece.

It won't have to fit perfectly, just enough to fit the square hole.

It won't have to fit perfectly, just enough to fit the square hole.

Trim the backing for the patch.

Trim the backing for the patch.

Place a wood scrap behind the drywall, and screw it into the wall using drywall screws.

Place a wood scrap behind the drywall, and screw it into the wall using drywall screws.

Then place the drywall patch (from Step 2) into the larger hole and screw it into the wood scrap.

Then place the drywall patch (from Step 2) into the larger hole and screw it into the wood scrap.

Apply the drywall tape around the edges of the patch.

Apply the drywall tape around the edges of the patch.

Mix up the joint compound following the instructions. If you prefer using pre-made compound (or spackling), feel free to use that.

Mix up the joint compound following the instructions. If you prefer using pre-made compound (or spackling), feel free to use that.

Apply compound over the drywall hole.

Apply compound over the drywall hole.

Work the joint compound with a taping knife until it's real smooth. Allow it to dry, which should take about 20 minutes, depending on how much moisture is in the air.

Work the joint compound with a taping knife until it's real smooth. Allow it to dry, which should take about 20 minutes, depending on how much moisture is in the air.

After the joint compound is dry, smooth out the patch with the sanding block until the surface is even.

After the joint compound is dry, smooth out the patch with the sanding block until the surface is even.

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  • Utility Knife
  • Drywall tape
  • Drywall screws
  • Taping knife
  • Electric drill
  • Scrap wood
  • Sanding block
  • Spackling or joint compound
  • Putty knife
  • Straight Edge
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil