Last week we filled that hole in our drywall, and now it’s time to apply the mud (sheetrock compound).
This is a step that a lot of folks hate because they can’t get a smooth finish. Don’t worry so much about the application. There are ways to get rid of the ridges.
Using a medium-width putty knife, cover the seams and screw heads with a coat of sheetrock compound. This may be the “Honey Do tip of the month.” Cut a piece of screen that will cover the patch and beyond by a couple of inches. Fiberglas or aluminum window screen will do fine. Place the screen over the repair and press it into the mud. Then smooth out the mud, working from the center of the patch.
If necessary, use a damp rag or smooth sponge to lightly smooth out ridges made by the putty knife. Let the patch dry thoroughly, maybe even until tomorrow.
Now for the final coat of mud. It’s helpful to have a wider “drywall knife” to spread the mud. Feather out the mud well over the borders of the screen. Make sure the screen is not exposed. After a short dry time, use the damp cloth or sponge to smooth out the finish. When the mud is completely dry, lightly sand with sandpaper and you are ready for primer.
Now you should have a strong smooth patch that will not crack. For the best finish, you should use a coat of primer followed by two coats of paint to get your true color.
Next week, how do you match the paint? Remember, help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
