Eigenvector wrote:
Couple of questions about drywall patching.

In one section of wall I had to take a Sawsall to a galvanized pipe -
unfortunately it was snugged pretty tightly to the wall and
consequently the sawsall penetrated the wall. Normally that wouldn't
be a big deal, slap on some patch over the line cut by the sawsall
and be done with it. However the Sawsall took out a good portion of
the drywall backing so the hole is what is exposed, but surrounding
the hole is mostly just drywall paper and paint. Should I cut out
around the hole and replace that section or patch the hole and let
the paint, paper, and remaining drywall take care of the rest? If I
had to hang picture there or something I would replace no question,
but that's not really on the docket for me.
Second question, is joint compound/mud perfectly acceptable to use as
a dent/gouge repair for finished drywall - or is patching compound
better.

I would cut out to good solid drywall and maybe to the stud and then do
your repair.

--
Joseph Meehan

Dia 's Muire duit