Drywall Repair And Skim Coat - A Closer Look at Some Basic Techniques

by Watson Smith Freelancer and a Business Advisory

There are many different types of coatings for drywall plaster on the market today. One of the more popular choices is a spray-on type of coating. These types of coatings can be applied over a drywall surface using a tool that is similar to a paintbrush, or even a roller. If you are planning to do any patching work, it is important to choose a coating that has the properties to be able to easily be sanded away, and then re-applied if needed.

The advantages and disadvantages of wetting and skim coat with a roller are the same as for drywall coatings; the main difference is the method for application. Wetting and skim coat with a roller are both used for small repairs, such as installing a skirting board between two walls. They can also be used for large repairs, such as replacing entire portions of drywall.

Wetting and skimming is most commonly used for small repair jobs because they are easy to do. A thin layer of glue and a couple drops of water are all that is needed to get the surface smooth. Skimming requires only two coats of glue and water, which is much easier than the three coats necessary for a roller repair. It is possible to make the repairs in sections, rather than making them all at the same time. Using this technique makes the repair take less time overall, and the end result is often far better than a cracked and flaking surface.

Another disadvantage of the wetting and skimming techniques for repairing plaster is that it can be messy. Depending on the area of the repair, there will be tiny bubbles that form, and these bubbles can attract dirt and dust. This can increase the amount of time it takes to finish a repair job. Also, when a patch is needed, instead of just quickly patching up a section of plaster, the entire drywall must be replaced.

The heat-rolling method, meanwhile, involves dipping the patching compound into the drywall solution. Then, the compound is applied to the problem area, being sure to coat both the top and bottom of the patch. This technique is used more often for small repairs, such as those that only need to be topped off. One of the advantages of the heat-rolling technique is that it leaves no residue on the surface. Using the technique does not affect the durability of the drywall, so it is perfect for use in rooms that will frequently be opened and closed.

The third technique is called flash drying. This is similar to the process used in soap-based flash drying products. A layer of adhesive is brushed onto the repair area, being sure to coat both sides with the second layer of adhesive. A uniform thickness is then applied, followed by a rubber matting that seals the area. The thickness of the layer is dependent upon the type of repair needed.

Other then these three techniques, there are a couple of other things to keep in mind when patching up the drywall. The first, and most important, is to avoid using water when patching up your walls. Water is a potential weak point, especially for those who live in areas where flooding is common. Water can seep through the repair layer and actually weaken the patch. Also, if you apply too much water to a single patch, you may end up leaving portions of the wall weaker than when you started, causing more repair work down the line.

Now that you know the different types of techniques for drywall repair, it's time to decide which one is best for your home. There are pros and cons to each technique, so consider your situation before making your decision. For example, patching up drywall with cement is the least expensive option, but it's also the best option for homeowners living in areas with extreme temperatures. The most common problem associated with this method is uneven wall coverage, so it's not always a great choice for smaller jobs. If you have a lot of walls to repair or are expecting severe weather, epoxy is probably your best bet.