How to Patch Large Holes in Wallboard

Wallboard is a light, inexpensive version of drywall. It provides the same look and feel as drywall, but it is not as durable. It is easy to accidentally punch a hole in the wall and damage the wallboard. Luckily, it is fairly easy to repair and patch the holes.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Carpenter's square
• Utility knife
• 3/4-inch plywood
• Saw
• Wallboard replacement board
• Drill
• Screws
• Self-adhesive fiberglass
• Paint

Instructions

1. Trace a rectangle around the hole in the wallboard. Use a T-square or carpenter's square to measure a rectangle that is at least an inch wider than the hole on all four sides.

2. Cut out the rectangle with a utility knife or razor blade.

3. Insert a 3/4-inch plywood strip into the middle of the rectangle You might need to purchase a larger piece from the hardware store and cut it down to size at home with a saw. Make sure the plywood is at least 2 inches longer than the rectangle on both the top and bottom. Drill two screws from the wallboard into the plywood on both the bottom and top of the hole.

4. Measure the rectangular hole you cut out and create a patch with replacement wallboard.

5. Place the patch over the hole and secure it to the plywood using a screw at the top and bottom of the patch.

6. Spread self-adhesive fiberglass over the patch and sand down any overlap with sandpaper.

7. Paint over the patch with a paint matching the rest of the wall and allow it to dry.

References

• Repair Wallboard Holes