Drywall DIY Projects

October 31st, 2009

Drywall was invented in the year 1916 and was named as Sackett Board. It was first sold as fireproof tiles, which later gained popularity and started to be sold as multi-layer gypsum and paper sheets. Its popularity and acceptability gained momentum and within a span of ten years it evolved as a single layer of gypsum, compressed between two sheets of paper.

As obvious by the name itself, drywalls constituents are devoid of water. It is also known in the markets by the name of gypsum wallboard, plasterboard or street rock. Drywalls have come to be known as the most versatile materials available for building and is used in creating walls and ceilings with adorned arches and other design details. Not only is drywall easy to install but offers longevity and ease of maintenance as well. Being highly resistant to fire, drywalls curb the rate at which the fire spreads and allow ample evacuation time.

When proceeding with the do-it-yourself drywall embellishments, it is advised to look out for any dents in one’s installed dry walls. In case there are, try to fix them yourself to cut down of the cost of maintenance and give yourself a boost of confidence. Repairing the dents in a drywall is a much simpler job that can be eased by following logical pattern of tasks. All one needs is a few simple tools, some inexpensive materials and a dash of motivation and will, to accomplish the look of the same brand new drywall to adorn your homes.

For the most of the processes required to fill out the dents of the drywall all one needs, is an effective putty knife, which can be easily purchased from any tools store or hardware retail. Other item required for the same purpose include; lightweight drywall compound also known as Spackle, a dust mask and fine-grit sandpaper. As a first step towards revamping the look of your drywalls which require the filling out of the dents, rub the edges of the dent with a sand paper to roughen them up so that the joining compound can be easily adhered to the wall and does fall off. Make sure to wipe away the particles of dust that results from scraping the edges of the dent. Make sure that you have worn your dust mask to prevent irritation in eyes and nose or any other form of allergy, caused by dust. A clear surface will help the bonding of joint compound with the wall.

Once the edges of the dent have been scraped to reveal their rough side, scoop out the joint compound larger in amount than the dent area, with the help of a putty knife. Positioning the putty knife parallel to the wall and slightly above the dent, push the joint compound into the dent, till it is completely filled with the compound. Make smooth the joint compound filled area, by moving the putty knife in circular motion and allow the compound to dry overnight when set. The drying of the compound is very crucial for further processing. In case the joint compound shrinks upon drying, refill the area and allow it to dry up. Again wearing the dust mask and using the sandpaper, sand the area to your satisfaction, which can now be painted as per your desire.

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Filled Under: Home Improvement Projects, Home Renovation Ideas, Home Renovation Projects, Water Systems