Small Ceiling Drywall Repair DIY

A while back we had a leak from a frozen line. I repaired it and now needed to repair the drywall. Let’s get to it.

Leaky Plumbing connection created a leak

Step 1: Cut out drywall

When I first determined the location of the leak I cut out a hole making sure I did not break the drywall. Make the necessary repair.

Cut drywall in a square for easy replacement. Use a drywall saw.

Step 2: Backing for Drywall

Cut some strips for backing. I idea is to have something to attach the drywall to. Screw it into the existing drywall.

Cut or find some strips of wood for drywall backing
Once the strips are cut, they are ready to be screw into the wall opening
These wood strips give me plenty of area to screw my drywall scrap back in.

Step 3: Reattach the drywall

Attach the piece that you cut out. Buy some drywall tape and some mud.

Screw your cut out drywall back in.
Buy some drywall Joint Tape
Buy some joint compound and a putty knife.

Step 4: Tape the seams

Make sure when applying the drywall mud to get the mud into the cracks. Put a thin coat of mud on the tape, let dry. Apply two or three thin coats as needed, then lightly sand.

Apply the drywall Joint Tape
Apply joint compound over the drywall tape
Apply multiple coats of joint compound

Step 5: Create the Ceiling finish

You will need to recreate the finish on the wall. In my case I needed to create a swirl type finish. I did this by using a paper plate and plastic bag.

I put mud on the plate and taped it on the ceiling. I let it dry for a few minutes, then I knocked it down with a drywall knife. This requires a light touch. Once it dries lightly sand to match the existing finish.