How to Fix a Breakthrough With Drywall Tape
- 1). Mark a rectangular shape around the hole, up to 3 inches in diameter, with a pencil and ruler.
- 2). Cut out the marked section with a keyhole saw, being careful not to cut any wires behind the wall.
- 3). Drill in two wood strips behind the hole with drywall screws. The wood strips should be 1 inch thick, 4 to 6 inches wide, and at least 6 inches longer than the opening. Drive the screws 1/16 inch into the wall to avoid breaking the surface of the drywall.
- 4). Measure the length and width of the section missing on the drywall and mark it on a new piece of drywall with a pencil and a ruler.
- 5). Cut the marked section from the new piece of drywall with a keyhole saw. Make sure the new piece of drywall is the same thickness as the existing wall.
- 6). Screw the new drywall piece into the two strips of wood with drywall screws. This time, drive the screws all the way into the drywall.
- 7). Cut out a piece of fiberglass tape that overlaps the hole on all sides by an inch. Center the tape with the repair area and attach the tape over the drywall with the adhesive side facing the wall.
- 8). Spread several thin layers of joint compound over the tape with a joint knife, making sure to cover the fiberglass tape and its seams. Spread the compound into the surrounding area to blend the repair area in nicely with the rest of the drywall. Let each layer dry before applying the next coat. Let the final coat dry for 24 hours.
- 9). Sand any rough patches on the dried joint compound with medium coarse sandpaper. Wipe off any debris. Prime and paint as needed.