How to Repair Damaged Drywall From Removing Wallpaper

Anyone with the right tools can make damaged drywall look like new.

Removing wallpaper from drywall often results in minor damage to the drywall. It leaves small indentations, exposed gypsum (the chalky mineral drywall is made from) and minor water damage. But ease of repair is a major factor in drywall's popularity as a wall surface. Repairing the damage is a simple task, well within the abilities of even novice do-it-yourselfers. It requires minimal tools and materials and, depending on whether quick-drying or regular joint compound is used, takes little time.

Things You'll Need

• Mixing pan
• Drywall knife
• Joint compound
• Medium-grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Apply a thin, even coat of joint compound over the damaged area using the drywall knife. Press a strip of drywall tape into the compound at any damaged joints or corners. Scrape any excess compound from around the tape and smooth with the knife.

2. Allow the coat to dry before applying a second thin coat. Apply a third coat after the second dries.

3. Smooth the dried compound by rubbing it back-and-forth with sandpaper.

Resources

• "The Complete Guide to Home Carpentry"; The Home Depot; 2001