This is one repair that can be done quickest with a drywall repair kit, but only if you can get the type that has a solid metal plate. The plate creates a much stronger repair than is possible with an “aluminum reinforced” repair kit, which just has some metal mesh attached to the fiberglass tape.
If you can’t find a repair kit with a solid plate, you could use an aluminum-reinforced kit, but a better choice would be to enlarge the hole a bit and use the repair technique on the next page.
You will need:
- Drywall repair kit that includes a thin aluminum plate covered with a self-adhesive fiberglass mesh patch
- Joint compound
- Taping knife
- Sandpaper
- Primer and paint
What to do:
- Clear any loose debris from around the damaged area.
- Set the patch over the hole.
- Apply one coat of joint compound, pressing firmly to fill the mesh. Spread the compound several inches beyond the patch and feather the edges.
- Allow the compound to dry thoroughly, then give it a light sanding.
- Apply a second coat of compound, spreading several inches beyond the first coat, feathering the edges.
- Let the compound dry, then sand it again. The repair is now ready to be prime and painted.
Photo © Jeff Beneke
