How To Repair A Large Hole In Plasterboard - Bunnings Warehouse, by Bunnings Warehouse on YouTube. 2 min 1 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 1 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours plus drying time
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Use a tape measure, pencil and straight edge to draw a square or rectangle around the damage. Extend the outline past the broken area until you reach solid plasterboard.
Score along the outline with a utility knife, then cut through with a plasterboard saw. Remove the damaged piece and check that the edges are straight. Wear eye protection and keep your hands clear of the blade.
Cut two timber battens a little longer than the opening. Slip them behind the wall at the top and bottom edges, then screw through the existing plasterboard into the battens.
Measure the opening and cut a plasterboard patch to fit, leaving a 2 to 3 mm gap around the edges. Screw the patch to the battens, keeping the screw heads just below the surface.
Press self-adhesive mesh tape or paper tape over all the seams around the patch. Make sure the tape sits flat with no bubbles or overlaps.
Spread joint compound over the tape with a taping knife, pressing it into the seams. Feather the edges out about 100 mm beyond the tape.
Let the compound dry, then add a second and third coat, each slightly wider than the last. Sand lightly between coats with 120 to 180 grit paper.
Sand the final coat flush with the wall, then wipe away the dust with a damp cloth. Prime the patch and paint it to match the surrounding wall.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a plasterboard offcut of the same thickness so the patch sits flush.
Do not overtighten the screws or they will tear the paper and weaken the patch.
Let each coat of joint compound dry fully before sanding or adding the next one.
Cover furniture and floors with a drop sheet because sanding creates fine dust.
Questions
How big a hole can I patch this way?
This method suits holes larger than about 100 mm across, where you can cut back to a clean square and fit a new piece of plasterboard.
Can I skip the timber battens?
No, for a large hole the patch needs support. Battens give the new piece something to screw into and keep it level with the wall.
How long before I can paint?
Wait until the last coat of joint compound is completely dry and sanded. That usually means overnight, depending on room temperature and humidity.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
