Step 10 · Drywall Repair and Finishing

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

Once you are completely confident that the system is leak-free and has passed any required inspections, you can begin the final phase of the project. If you removed any insulation, replace it now. Re-install the pieces of drywall you carefully cut out earlier, securing them to the studs with drywall screws. Apply drywall tape over all the seams. Using a taping knife, apply several thin coats of joint compound over the tape, feathering the edges to blend with the existing wall. Allow each coat to dry completely and sand it smooth before applying the next. Once the final coat is sanded and smooth, apply a coat of primer, followed by a top coat of paint that matches the rest of the wall.