How to repair ceiling hole - Fill or patch piece?

[nugley]

I have two ceiling holes which I'm looking to repair. The ceiling plasterboard is 13mm thick and the hole's dimensions are shown in the pics below. I'm trying to decide which option below will give me the better long lasting result:

(1) add a backing and simply fill the holes with joint compound and paper tape

OR

(2) cut it out as a square, add a backing, insert a 13mm thick plasterboard piece, then fill gaps with joint compound and paper tape.

Keen to hear the community's thoughts. Thank you.

[EricL]

Hello @nugley 

Both techniques are valid and it comes down to your preference on which patch technique you feel will give you the best results. If I had to choose, I would go with number 2 as there is no need to apply a great deal of repair filler to the damaged surface.  

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @AlanM52 for their recommendations.

Eric

[Nailbag]

I would keep it simpler and fill the hole just with the joint compound, wait 24hrs then apply two top coats sanding in between and slightly wider coverage with each coat. 

Nailbag

[AlanM52]

Hi @nugley ,

(2) I agree with @Nailbag, the first option requires too much prep and clean-up.

Regards

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @nugley 

I was going for the more labour intensive option of cut square, plate behind and repair I like neat straight lines even tho they weill eventually be covered. But really the second option is the simplest. Worst case if you dont like it, then you cut it out and do it the more intesive way

Dave