How to Repair a Mud Swirl Ceiling

swirl ceiling
  • 4-8 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 75-200
What You'll Need
Utility knife
Drywall
Drywall screws
Seam tape
Base coat mud
Ready-mix texture
Hawk and trowel
6-inch spackling knife
What You'll Need
Utility knife
Drywall
Drywall screws
Seam tape
Base coat mud
Ready-mix texture
Hawk and trowel
6-inch spackling knife

Repairing a swirl ceiling can be difficult because the texture can be hard to match between the existing pattern and the new patch. In order to repair the ceiling like a pro, you will need to practice the swirl texture on a few scrap pieces of drywall. You shouldn’t begin the project unless you are confident that you can match the texture.

The steps below will detail how to repair a mud swirl ceiling. Making such a repair on a plaster ceiling is usually best left to a professional, but if you are handy and follow these the instructions below, you can do it yourself.

Step 1 - Practice the Pattern of the Swirl Ceiling

Match the texture before you begin working on your swirl ceiling. Set aside some time to work with the mix and the tools so you know exactly what to do when it comes time to apply the texture.

Step 2 - Remove the Damaged Section of the Swirl Ceiling

Remove the damaged portion of the ceiling. You don't need to pull out any power tools yet. Instead you can score the drywall with your utility knife until you can remove the damaged section. You have to make sure that you expose the studs when you remove the damaged section. That will allow you to attach the new drywall securely.

Step 3 - Attach a New Section of Drywall

Measure the area that is now free of drywall. Cut a new piece of drywall to those exact specifications. You have to make sure that the drywall is the same thickness as the drywall that is already hung on the swirl ceiling.
Attach the drywall to the studs and countersink the screws.

Step 4 - Tape the Drywall Seams

Using spackling and seam tape, tape the seams that connect the new piece of drywall to the existing ceiling. Add a thin coat of spackling and then the seam tape. Use the spackling knife to remove the excess spackling.

Step 5 - Add Several Coats of Mud

Apply two coats of mud to the affected area. The first coat should cover the tape and make a good foundation. Work in small sections and be sure that you don’t apply too much mud. Let the first coat dry completely before you add the second. Your second coat will finish the smooth work on the ceiling. Be sure to keep everything smooth and level.

Step 6 - Blend the Texture

The specific swirl pattern will determine whether you will work in a small or large circular pattern. You will have to fool around with the ready-mix texture to determine the ideal consistency. Having practiced the texture earlier will be a big help now. If the pattern on the swirl ceiling is subtle, try a rather loose mix. If the texture is well-defined and pointy, you will need a thicker mix. You will probably also need to use a heavier hand during application.

Step 7 - Texture the the New Drywall on Your Swirl Ceiling

Now apply the mixed texture to the new drywall. Follow the pattern you practiced in Step 1.

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