Step 9 · Repair Access Panel
Now you will repair the access hole. You may need to add small wood cleats behind the edges of the drywall opening to provide a surface for screws. Place the piece of drywall you originally cut out back into the hole and secure it to the cleats with drywall screws. Apply drywall tape over the seams. Using a drywall knife, apply several thin coats of joint compound over the tape, feathering the edges with each coat to blend it with the surrounding wall. Allow each coat to dry completely and sand lightly between coats until the patch is smooth and level.