How should I repair drywall damage outside a shower?

Question

I am working on repairing a water damaged portion of the wall in my bathroom. This spot has taken years and years of water splashes from people getting in and out of the shower and has become very damaged.

I ordered a basic drywall repair kit but am worried because the damaged drywall butts right up to the shower wall but wanted to get any tips or suggestions here because of its unique location. It's also important to know that I'm looking for a quick fix, something to repair the wall cosmetically on a short term basis before getting a professional to do repairs. I know it's bad, but we have guests coming soon and want to get rid of the eyesore!

Do I need to take any special precautions here? Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated before I break out the utility knife and joint compound, haha!

Answer 1

I'd want to use setting type joint compound here. It'll be much more resistant to future water damage, and it's tougher, so it'll fill the voids you're about to create better.

1. Slice the paint just outside the loose area to prevent undue peeling.

2. Optionally, carefully remove the base trim with a painter's bar or similar tool. This would allow a more thorough repair, though it isn't strictly necessary.

3. Scrape away all loose material, including crumbling drywall. Clean everything up to solid material and flat, smooth surfaces on things like the shower.

4. Mix a small amount of joint compound, following the manufacturer's directions. You want the consistency correct. It should be something like stiff peanut butter, so that it holds shape as you work with it.

5. Using a 4" or 6" putty knife, press compound firmly into the voids. Scrape it off level with the wall surface. Let that cure until hard.

6. Skim again as needed to get a fully flat, smooth finish. Don't leave the mud proud of the wall surface. You shouldn't have to grind or sand anything back down if you've done it right.

7. Sand lightly to smoothen the surface, then prime and paint. Apply a small bead of paintable caulk against the tub if you like.

8. Reinstall the trim if it was removed. Caulk it (small beads!) and paint.