I have a large hole where a TV wall mount once was (I believe the hole was used to run power and coax cable to the TV). I have since moved the TV and would like to patch the hole. What is the best way to do this?
Drywall – the best method to patch a large hole (2-3 inches) in drywall
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Related Solutions
The process for patching should similar to drywall, but with slightly different materials. I'd suggest using wood filler at the joint.
In more detail: first, get a new piece of plywood of the same thickness as the existing wall board. Then you need to attach your patch piece to structure. For this, you have two options.
- Cut away more of the existing plywood until you've exposed some structure you can fasten into.
- Cut some lumber to span the opening, and attach it using screws through existing plywood around the opening. Then cut your patch and mount it to the spanning pieces.
If the hole is only 6" wide, a small piece of 2x4 or even 1x2 and a plywood patch will probably cover you.
To seal the seams between your patch and existing plywood, use wood filler. Fill with a putty knife, sand flat, prime and paint. Assuming you can find a 4ft x 2ft plywood panel of the appropriate thickness, total materials cost should be around $20-$30.
I wouldn't try removing the frame. It appears to extend in both directions and may damage a larger section of wall.
You are right to be concerned about taping compound or spackle sticking to a metal edge. I would recommend making a patch that is larger than the opening by about an inch on each side. Then trim away the back paper and the core of the patch so that the part being put into the wall is the exact size of the hole. That will leave you with a "flange" of paper facing on hte room side that will be easier to tape and compound to blend it in.
Your general approach to support is right, but you may not need a brace between the studs. To support the patch, cut three pieces of 1x2 wood that are about 6 inches longer than the height of the opening. Position each piece of wood vertically in the cavity, one near the left side of the hole, one in the middle, and one near the right. To attach each strip pull it forward against the back of the plaster or plasterboard. Hold it in place by screwing through the face of the wall into the top and bottom sections of the wood strip. You can screw the plasterboard patch to these strips for support.
Finish the attachment with tape and taping compound. I would probably use mesh tape on a patch of this size and support.
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Best Answer
Correct way to do it as instructed on 'Canada's worst Handyman':
Same process works for larger holes and also on the ceiling which can be tricky.