How to Do it With Marshalltown Tools

Drywall Tips and Techniques
Plaster Repairs

Larger holes can be patched just as easily. First, be sure to clean the damaged area thoroughly. Remove all pieces of broken plaster and crumbly wallboard, as well. Then, using a paint brush, moisten the damaged area to remove all dust and provide a better bond for the new patching plaster. Your patch must have a sound backing. Insert a piece of screen wire into the hole. A piece of string, threaded through the screen wire, will help to hold it in place. Use a putty knife to apply patching material; work from edges toward the center of the hole. Two or three layers may be required to build up to the proper depth. Make your patch level and smooth as possible using a trowel or a wide taping knife.

The screen backing must be held in place while the rough patch is drying. Using a piece of 1 x 2, bridge the hole and tie the string tightly around it. After the patch dries, remove the bridge and cut string flush to the surface. Again, use a paint brush to moisten the plaster. Then apply a finish coat of plaster. A finishing trowel is best for this operation. Wet the patch slightly before the last pass. When the patch is dry, repaint.

Cracks in plaster can be patched in the same general manner, although no screen backing is required. First clean the crack and use a small chisel to widen it slightly. Dig away the solid plaster about one inch past the ends of the crack.

It is always a good idea to remove any loose paint from around the repair area. Lightly sand to "rough-up" the solid paint. Then use a paint brush to moisten the repair area, sweeping away all the dust.

Keeping the surface wet, fill the crack with patching plaster. Use a trowel or broad knife to smooth the patch. Skim away any excess patching material. After the patch is dry, use a hand sander to sand off the rough spots. If any shallow spots are apparent, refill them.

The edges of gypsum drywall are made in square, tapered or beveled form. The tapered edges along the length are made with a slight depression which allows for a filled and taped joint.