Dowels are very useful for hanging heavy objects on drywall walls, but they are composed of pins that damage the inner structure of the wall if pulled out, and a visible edge that cannot be pushed inward. If you have a drywall wall and want to safely remove an anchor, you need to start by removing the visible end and push the rest of the anchor inward. Follow the Steps below to get your hands dirty!
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Ripping the Visible End
Step 1. Remove the screw that is attached to the bushing
The screw must be removed before reaching the visible end of the bushing. In this case, unscrew it counterclockwise and remove it completely.
If the screw has an X in its head, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove it. This is the most common screw type used in drywall walls
Step 2. Hold the visible end of the bushing with needle nose pliers
Fit the tip of the pliers under the bushing to hold it firmly and pull it out to tear off the visible part of the bushing.
- This visible end of the bushing is intended to hold it in place without accidentally crossing the drywall wall.
- Be very careful when handling the pliers so that you don't end up damaging the wall. If possible, avoid contact of the metal with the plaster surface.
- If the bushing is too tight, place a screwdriver under its head to loosen it.
Step 3. Insert a screwdriver into the bushing hole
After removing the visible end, use a screwdriver to push the plug into the wall. Obviously, use a wrench smaller than the bushing, as the idea is not to expand the existing hole.
Step 4. Push the plug into the wall with the screwdriver
It should fall into the wall structure and can be left there without harm. Now, you only have one hole to patch.
Another option is to place a Phillips screwdriver in the hole and tap it lightly with a hammer. After pushing the plug into the wall, close the hole with drywall spackle
Method 2 of 3: Cutting the Visible Edge
Step 1. Fit a stylus blade under the visible part of the bushing
The blade should be flush with the wall, with the cutting side down. Do not press it against the wall, or you could end up damaging the surface.
Obviously, this method only works with plastic bushings
Step 2. Tear off the visible part of the bushing
Rock the blade back and forth, cutting the bushing protrusion slowly. As soon as it falls, discard it.
Step 3. Push the plug into the wall with a screwdriver
After removing the visible end of the bushing, simply push it into the wall without causing damage. Use a screwdriver to press the bushing and drop it into the frame.
Once the hole is free, just patch it following the Steps below so that it is unnoticeable
Method 3 of 3: Patching the Wall
Step 1. Apply drywall spatula with a plastic spatula
Place the dough on the spatula and pass it over the hole, stopping when it is completely filled.
- Apply with an "X" motion to create a smooth surface.
- If the hole is longer than 1.5 cm, cover it first with drywall adhesive tape. This product can be purchased at building supply stores. The idea is to apply spackle on the tape.
Step 2. Remove excess dough with spatula
After filling the hole, smooth the putty in until the wall is completely smooth.
Step 3. Allow to dry completely, following the dough manufacturer's instructions
Usually, the ideal is to let the product dry overnight.
Step 4. Sand the surface
Using a medium-grit sandpaper, sand around the hole to remove excess raisin, stopping when the surface is very smooth. Remember to remove dust residue when finished.
Step 5. paint the patch using very light brush strokes to blend the wall paint without drawing too much attention to it.
A good option, depending on the case, is to paste a wallpaper that has the same tone as the rest of the wall. Allow to dry well overnight.