Patching Drywall Around Vents

On occasion a home improvement enthusiast may discover that the opening cut in the drywall to install a bath fan is not completely covered by the fan s.

Patching drywall around vents. Run strips of self adhesive fiberglass drywall tape around the patch centering the tape on the seams. It s easier to add backer board than to try to cut the drywall over studs as you learn how to fix drywall. Or make a shallow cut by repeatedly scoring the line with a sharp utility knife to begin a hole patch. It s fine to fill screw holes and other small wall dings with patching compound but for dime size and larger drywall repairs and for holes that are deep it s best to use a joint compound that sets up by a chemical reaction these are available in powder form with setting times ranging from five to 90 minutes.

Let the compound dry overnight and then sand until smooth. Use a 6 inch drywall taping knife to spread drywall joint compound across the patch and tape to create a smooth flat surface. Use a drywall knife to cover the patch with spackling compound or lightweight joint compound in a crisscross pattern feathering the edges so it blends with the wall. Air conditioning ducts that terminate at a wall or ceiling inside a room have tabs for attaching grills also known as registers or trim.

If so work carefully around them with a drywall or keyhole saw. To feather the edge increase pressure and angle on the drywall knife as you reach the outer edges of the patch area to minimize or thin the compound on the drywall. Learn how to quickly and effectively fix horribly cut or damaged drywall around electrical boxes.