How to Repair a Hole in Plasterboard Ceiling

If you need to repair a hole in plasterboard ceiling, use a professional plastering contractor. Though that might sound like an expensive option, in the long run it's liable to save you money. The cause of the hole could be anything, from water damage to a misplaced foot while stowing away the Christmas decorations.

It's always tempting to look at a hole and think, surely I could do that myself? And if your DIY skills are well advanced, you may well be right. However, the most likely outcome at best is a badly finished job. At worst, you could increase the damage and end up having to call in the professionals after all.

Read on to discover the right way to repair a hole in plasterboard ceiling.

Tools and materials

For professional plastering contractors like R & B Plastering, repairing a damaged ceiling is a simple and straightforward job. But if you're new to DIY it might not seem like such a quick and easy task. Firstly there are the tools and materials you're going to need.

These will include a stud & wire detector, a padsaw, a drill, some plasterboard, construction adhesive and a suitable filler. If you don't already have these items that could add up to a considerable expense. That's another reason why it's generally quicker and more cost-effective to use professional plastering contractors.

Fixing a small hole

Ironically, to repair a hole in plasterboard ceiling that's quite small, you need to start by making it bigger. First use a padsaw to turn the shape of the hole into a square. Then using the hole as a guide, cut a plasterboard patch the same width but two inches longer. Drill a small hole in the centre of your patch and push a screw through it from the back.

Apply liberal amounts of adhesive to the edges of your patch, particularly the top and bottom edges. Using the screw as a 'handle', tilt the patch and slot it through the hole in your ceiling. Again using the screw, apply gentle pulling pressure to affix the patch to the back edge of the hole. Leave to dry for 24 hours, then fill with plaster or an appropriate filler.

Fixing a large hole

To repair a hole in plasterboard ceiling that's quite large, you're going to need more tools and materials. You may also need more skills than the occasional DIY-er. If someone has put a foot through the ceiling from above, there may be extensive cracks in the plasterboard. These areas will need to be replaced, and may need extra wooden battens to support the new plasterboard.

Here at R & B Plastering we have over 20 years of experience, and take such jobs in our stride. Our standards are high, and we're happy to advise on the cost of a job before you make a decision. To find out more about the services we offer, call us today.