hello, we're trying to put up a closet system and had to tear down the previous shelves. they were mounted atop horizontal 2x4's that were nailed into the wall at the studs and the whole closet painted. well, in pulling off the 2x4's, it ripped the top paper sheet (or is it paint) of the drywall. what's the best way to repair these surface tears? they go all the way around the walkin. of course, we'll plan to repaint.
thanks
You don't replace the paper you just plaster over it with a very broad sheetrock joint knife or a 12 inch straight-edged bladed trowel thingy they sell for doing large joints. Looks like a sheetmetal ruler. I've used spackle for small jobs. Regular sheetrock joint compound will also work, but you may have to buy a lot of it. First bevel-trim torn paper edges with a really sharp utility knife or razor blade, so the edges lay flat and won't pop up as you wipe on the spackle. Also, dampen the surface just before plastering, as dry sheetrock will suck the moisture from the spackle, causing uneven drying or poor adhesion. It may take several applications, with some sanding in between coats.
original poster didn't mention any kind of texture, if repaired area needs texture, home depot/lowe's sell can of spray texture, about $12, come with 3 straws for 3 different sizes of texture; or match texture to existing texture using drywall mud and whatever tool (brusk, rake, sponge, etc.) needed
Skim coat it with drywall mud after removing all loose paper. Use a applicator (drywall knife trowel) that is wider than the repair area. Apply two or more coats, keep them thin to avoid sanding. Drywall mud can be purchased in 1 and 5 gallon buckets. The 5 gallon costs about the price of
2 ones most places. For one time use a cheap plastic mud pan is all you need.Colbyt
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