Under normal circumstances, repairing large holes with furring is preferable to the stud to stud method because the stud to stud method involves making the hole larger to accommodate a new drywall sheet large enough to be anchored to wall studs. Some do-it-yourselfers are simply uncomfortable making damage even worse before undertaking repairs. With the furring strip method, you can repair holes that don’t span from stud to stud.
How to Repair a Large Hole in Drywall: Furring Strip Method
This method involves attaching pieces of wood or plywood directly to the drywall and not necessarily to the studs. The wood pieces are called furring strips and are 2-1/2 or 3 inches wide.
Remove damaged drywall. Use a carpenter’s level and draw horizontal and vertical lines slightly larger than the damaged area, 1″-2″ is enough. Cut damaged piece out with a drywall saw. Measure the new hole and transfer these measurements to a new piece of drywall. Pre-fit the new piece and shave the edge(s) with a drywall rasp for a good fit.- Secure furring strips. Cut furring strips about 6″ longer than the hole. Slide the strip into the hole (perpendicular to the floor) and secure with drywall screws every 2″-3″. Make sure to leave half of the furring strip width exposed for attaching the new piece of drywall. Depending on the size of the hole additional wood strips can be used for additional support. Tip: Be cautious of finger placement when screwing the furring strip in place!
Install new drywall. Fit drywall in place to cover the large drywall hole, and use drywall screws to secure it to the furring strips. Place screws 3″-4″ apart for a secure fit. Tip: A good fit is vital to a professional finish. Take your time and do it right.- Finishing drywall. Finish the drywall in the same manner as with the Stud to Stud Method.
