Step 9 · Repair Drywall Access Panel

After the underlying plumbing leak is fully resolved, you must repair the access hole. You can either reinstall the piece you cut out by adding wood backing strips inside the wall for support, or use a commercial drywall patch kit. Apply drywall joint compound over the seams using a drywall knife, embedding drywall tape in the first coat. Apply one or two more thin coats of compound, allowing each to dry and sanding smooth between coats with a sanding sponge. Once the surface is perfectly smooth and level with the wall, prime and paint it to match the surrounding wall.

Tools and Materials

DEWALT DW 5 in. SS Joint Knife Composite Handle DXTT-2-5053M 2-7/8 in. x 4-7/8 in. 100, 180 Fine/Medium All-Purpose Sanding Sponge DSFM-F-ESF-10PaintbrushTrimMaster Oak Hardwood 1-3/8 in. x 36 in. Seam Binder Transition Strip H2778LO3DAP DryDex 8 oz. Wall Repair Patch Kit (2-Pack) 7079812345Drywall Joint CompoundUSG Sheetrock Brand 2-1/16 in. x 250 ft. Paper Drywall Joint Tape 382175SPEEDHIDE MaxPrime 1 gal. Base 1 Flat Interior Primer 6-4-01Paint