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Now you can simply apply the compound, press it firmly into the joint and over the recessed screw heads, then skim off the excess. Let this dry, then do a light sanding and come back with a second coat. Once you get a coat of paint on the patch, no one will ever know that you were inside that wall.
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Chances are that you won't have to relocate an electrical switch if you decide to put in an archway. But if you do run into a small hiccup like this one, remember that it's just a detour, and probably isn't anything you can't handle with a little research and a little time.
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The first step in preparing the opening for the archway kit is installing one-by-four cleats to the framing on the upper corners. It should just cover the width of the wooden surface of the existing framing for the doorway. |
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| Once the cleats are in place, attach wallboard to them using drywall screws. Be careful to countersink the screw heads slightly, but not enough to break the paper face on the drywall. |
Once one corner is finished, attach wallboard to the other side, as well. Then put the columns into place temporarily, and set a cardboard template (either self-made or one that comes with the kit) on top. With a marker, trace the template outline onto the wallboard. |
Remove the template and the columns. Using a drywall saw, cut along the line, creating a curve into the pieces of drywall you just put up, that will form the top of the archway. |
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| Apply joint compound to the seams between the wall and the archway wallboard, then skim off the excess. Repeat this process on the other side of the doorway. |
With the modifications to the opening complete, install the first column by slipping it over the edge of the rough opening and pushing it into place. |
Next, slide the archway header into position. |
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| Use a piece of one-by-two to brace it; cut the brace to be a little longer than the height of the new archway, so that it forms a slight bend when it's wedged into position. |
Now fit the second column over the left side of the opening. Check both columns for plumb, then lower the header so that it's resting on top of the columns. |
Finally, use a finish nail gun to secure the columns and header to the framing. Just a few nails are all that are needed. |
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The nail holes are easily filled with spackle . . . |
. . . then it's time to apply a coat of primer that will be followed by a semi gloss enamel. Prime and paint the new wallboard above the arch, to match the rest of the wall. |
There you have it! An elegant interior archway as easy as 1-2-3. |
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