Flash-Patching drywall is another method sometimes used instead of the
board-patch. Flash-patching is appropriate for small holes about the size of an
outlet box. Instead of using tape, the paper from the front of the patch is
used to hold the patch in place. If the hole you are dealing with is larger,
see related links at bottom of page.
Safety Suggestions and Tips
Use sharp utility knife
This method is faster than other methods
Great patch when you have had a wild hammer swing!
Level of difficulty
Time Required:
1 hour
Steps
Measuring patch area
Step 1:
Using a square (or a box) mark a rectangle around the
hole.
Cut out hole
Step 2:
Using a utility knife or a keyhole saw, cut out the hole you marked.
Measure hole width and height
Step 3:
Measure the hole you cut in the wall.
Oversized patch piece
Step 4:
Measure and mark a piece of drywall one inch
larger in all dimensions than the hole.
Draw or trace hole area from behind
Step 5:
Mark the hole on the center of the patch.
Cut halfway through
Step 6:
Cut along the lines you marked. Cut all the way to the
edge of the piece.
Break off excess
Step 7:
Snap the drywall along the lines you cut. Pull the
chalky middle part off the paper on the front of the patch.
Apply joint compound along edges
Step 8:
"Butter" the paper flaps with joint compound.
Make sure that you cover all four flaps.
Carefully slap patch in
Step 9:
Gently push the patch into place.
Allow excess out
Step 10:
The compound will ooze from around the edges.
Cover with compound
Step 11:
Using a wide (6" or wider) knife, spread the compound that has oozed from under
the patch around the patch. Make sure you work as much compound as possible
from under the paper. The face of the patch should be under a
light haze of compound. Let dry and lightly sand.
Sand and repeat compound cover
Step 12:
Spread more compound onto the patch and spread
it across the hole and several inches surrounding the patch. Work the compound
smooth. Let dry and sand.
