If you live in Southwest Florida, you know humidity can turn even a simple drywall patch into a frustrating project. Garages, in particular, face extreme temperature swings, moisture buildup, and airflow issues that make standard patch jobs peel, bubble, or crack over time.

Here’s how to repair drywall the right way for Florida’s climate — whether it’s a dent from a door handle or a large hole in the wall.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Repair Drywall in a Humid Garage (Watch here)

  1. Assess the Damage
    Check the size and cause of the hole. If moisture is the cause, dry the area thoroughly first using fans or a dehumidifier.
  2. Cut Out the Damaged Area
    Use a utility knife to remove soft or crumbly drywall. Cut clean edges around the hole so your patch fits securely.
  3. Use Mold-Resistant Drywall
    In Florida, regular drywall doesn’t last long in garages. Replace the section with mold- and moisture-resistant board (greenboard or purple board).
  4. Apply a Backer Support (for large holes)
    For holes larger than 4 inches, install a small piece of furring strip or scrap wood behind the hole to anchor the patch.
  5. Attach the Drywall Patch
    Secure the new piece of drywall with drywall screws into the support wood. Ensure it sits flush against the wall.
  6. Tape and Mud
    Apply joint tape over the seams, then cover with lightweight joint compound in thin, even layers. Let each coat dry completely before sanding.
  7. Seal and Prime
    This is where many Florida repairs fail — you need to seal the patch with a moisture-resistant primer before applying the paint. This keeps humidity from softening the joint compound over time.
  8. Finish with Garage-Grade Paint
    Use a semi-gloss or satin paint formulated for humid areas to help resist mold and mildew.

🌴 Florida Garage Drywall Repair Tips

  • Run a dehumidifier if your garage isn’t air-conditioned.
  • Use mold-resistant joint compound.
  • Seal all base edges where the wall meets the floor to prevent moisture wicking.
  • If you see bubbling paint or damp spots, fix the humidity issue before patching.

💬 FAQ: Florida Drywall Repair

1. Why does my drywall keep cracking in the garage?

Florida’s humidity expands and contracts drywall constantly. Cracks often happen when standard drywall or compound is used instead of moisture-resistant materials.

2. Can I use regular drywall in my garage?

You can, but it won’t last long. Garages in Florida need mold-resistant drywall (often green or purple board) to stand up to humidity and heat.

3. How long should I let joint compound dry before sanding?

At least 24 hours in humid conditions. If it still feels cool or soft, give it extra time — rushing it causes cracking and bubbles.

4. Do I need to repaint the whole wall after patching?

If you’re matching texture and color closely, you can spot-paint. But in humid garages, repainting the full wall with moisture-resistant paint helps protect your repair long-term.

5. Can a handyman handle this repair?

Absolutely. A handyman with experience in dealing with Florida humidity can ensure that the materials, texture, and finish blend seamlessly and last through summer storms.

Need drywall repaired in your Fort Myers, Estero, or Naples garage?
Contact Yes I Can Fix That — your local, veteran-owned handyman team that knows how to keep Florida walls looking solid year-round.

📍 Serving Southwest Florida | Call or text today!

Serving Southwest Florida:
We proudly serve homeowners in Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples.
Call or text (239) 318-9025 for trusted drywall repair in humid Florida garages and homes.
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