PROJECTS ONLINE: DRYWALL: PATCHING A HOLE USING WIRE MESH
Project Difficulty:
Easy Estimated
Project Time: 1 day, depending on drying time for layers of joint compound
Tools and Materials:
2-foot length of string
Hardware mesh
Piece of wood, or a nail
Joint compound
6" taping knife
Utility knife
120-grit sandpaper
To repair small holes in plasterboard without first installing a wood-backed patch, you can use an old tradesman's trick, as explained in the following steps.
1.
Make and Insert a Mesh Patch
Thread one end of a 2-foot length of string through the center of a piece of sturdy wire mesh (known as hardware cloth). Tie that end of the string to a small piece of wood or a nail to keep it from pulling through the mesh. Slip this mesh-and-string assembly into the hole, and pull the string taut so that the mesh presses against the inside of the surrounding drywall. (Fig. 1)
2.
Hold Mesh in Place
While keeping tension on the string, apply joint compound, using a 6-inch taping knife. It will ooze through the mesh, holding it in place (Fig. 2). After the first coat dries, cut off the string.
3.
Apply a Second Coat of Joint Compound
Apply a second coat of joint compound, smooth it out, and carefully blend the edges into the wall. Let this coat dry completely.
4.
Apply the Finish Coat
Using a 6-inch taping knife as a scraper, knock down any burrs or high spots. Apply a final coat of joint compound and allow it to dry. Use 120-grit sandpaper to sand it to a finished smoothness.
