The paper facing on drywall can tear off under a number circumstances, but it's never a major problem. Whether you pulled glue or old wallpaper off the wall, and some of the paper facing came with it, or you were over zealous in scraping off old texture, you'll be able to make repairs with joint compound and a drywall knife. Sometimes a surface layer of the paper facing comes off, leaving the under layer exposed, and sometimes the entire facing comes off, exposing the gypsum core. The repair isn't significantly different in either case.
Pull off as much loose paper as you can, but do it carefully to avoid increasing the area of the repair. One method to limit the amount of paper you pull off is to score around the repair with a sharp utility knife and pull off paper up to the score line.
Spread drywall primer on the area that needs repair. The primer will seal the exposed facing or gypsum core and aid adhesion of joint compound. Use a water-based product to avoid releasing toxic fumes into the room. Let the primer dry before proceeding.
Spread a thin layer of all-purpose joint compound over the torn facing with a 6-inch drywall knife. Scrape it flat, feathering the edges of the repair into the surrounding wall, and let it dry for 8 to 12 hours.
Spread a second layer and scrape it flat. You probably won't need more than two layers.
Sand the final layer with 120-grit sandpaper after it dries.
Spread a coat of drywall primer on the repair. Let the primer dry, then paint the repair with the wall color.
Things You Will Need
- Utility knife
- Drywall primer
- Drywall joint compound
- 6-inch drywall knife
- 120-grit sandpaper
- If a hole extends 1/2 inch or more into the gypsum core, spread a thin coat of patching compound over the hole to seal it before repairing the surface damage with joint compound. Patching compound sets to a hard consistency and is difficult to sand, so be sure to scrape it flat.
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