How to Cut Drywall on the Wall

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

If you need to access something inside a wall or make a hole to install an outlet, you will need to cut into the drywall on the wall. Don't ever use a circular saw or other large power saw to cut into drywall on the wall because you will generate a huge amount of dust and possibly damage something behind it. First, plan your cuts and take some safety measures to protect yourself and anything inside the wall. Then, use a jab saw, also known as a drywall saw, to cut out a section by hand or use an electric rotary tool if you want to make quick work of the job.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Planning the Cuts and Taking Safety Measures

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-1.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This will help you determine if there are any places you need to avoid cutting into. Only cut into spots where there might be plumbing and electrical wiring if it is absolutely necessary and be extra careful to cut no deeper than the depth of the drywall, which is usually 1 ⁄ 2  in (1.3 cm).
    • If you don't have architectural plans for the wall you need to cut into, you can try estimating where plumbing and wiring runs by looking at things like sinks, toilets, electrical outlets, and light fixtures.

    Tip : Wires typically run vertically down the walls from the ceiling towards electrical outlets, light switches, and light fixtures on the wall. There is usually plumbing directly behind sinks and faucets, as well as below toilets, tubs, showers and other places where water drains.

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-2.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Identify the spot where you want to make a hole for an inspection or to access something behind the drywall. Draw the outline for the cut freehand if you just need a rough opening or use a straight edge to create perfectly straight lines. [1]
    • If you want to create a circular opening in drywall, you can trace around a round object to create a neat cut line.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-3.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This will protect you from inhaling drywall dust or getting it in your eyes. Prolonged exposure to drywall dust in your lungs may cause respiratory problems.
    4. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Cutting by Hand with a Jab Saw

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-4.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [2] Place the sharp tip of the jab saw against the drywall, then wiggle it back and forth while applying strong pressure to push it straight through using your dominant hand. Use your non-dominant hand to push on the back of the handle if you need more force to get it through. [3]
    • A jab saw is also known as a drywall saw. It has a sharp tip that makes it relatively easy to punch through a sheet of drywall as well as teeth for sawing.
    • Jab saws can be used to make both straight and circular cuts in drywall.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-5.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Apply more pressure on the forward sawing motion to create a neat cut without jagged outside edges. Pull the blade most of the way out and rotate it 90 degrees before plunging it back in whenever you reach the end of a cut line on a square or rectangular section. [4]
    • Try your best to saw with even, controlled motions and only saw about 1 ⁄ 2  in (1.3 cm) deep, which is the most common depth of drywall.

    Tip : If you want to reinstall the same piece of drywall after you remove it, you can hold the jab saw at a 45-degree angle away from the center of the section as you cut it out. This will create a bevelled cutout so you can easily patch the piece back in.

  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-6.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Hold the nozzle of a shop vac in your non-dominant hand. Follow along behind the jab saw to suck up the dust as you cut. [5]
    • This is completely optional. It just helps to reduce the mess you make, but you can always vacuum it up afterwards if you want to.
    • Another trick to minimize dust is by fitting a jab saw with a finer-toothed blade meant for cutting metal rather than drywall.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-7.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Carefully go back around the edges of the section you cut out using a utility knife. Cut away any rough, irregular pieces or straighten the lines. [6]
    • This will make it easier to patch or repair the drywall.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using an Electric Rotary Tool

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-8.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Attach a drywall cutting bit to a rotary tool and adjust the cutting guide. Insert the drywall cutting bit into the rotary tool and tighten it in place. Adjust the cutting guide to 1 ⁄ 2  in (1.3 cm), which is the depth of most drywall. [7]
    • You can use a rotary tool of your choice, such as a Dremel tool or a RotoZip.
    • If you don't have a drywall cutting bit, you can also use a multi-purpose cutting bit.

    Tip : Dremel tools and RotoZips are both popular rotary tools for making cutouts in drywall. However, Dremel tools are easier to handle and maneuver if you are just cutting out smaller sections of drywall. RotoZips are larger and more heavy duty.

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-9.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Set the rotary tool to its highest speed and turn it on. Plunge it into the beginning of a cut line wherever you want to start your cut. [8]
    • You won't be able to plunge the bit into the wall if the rotary tool is not on.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-10.jpg\/aid11530324-v4-728px-Cut-Drywall-on-the-Wall-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Carefully push the rotary tool along the cut lines you drew with both hands, holding the cutting guide firmly against the wall to help you make clean cuts. Stop and pull it out once you have cut along all the lines. [9]
    • You can now pop out the section you cut out to access something behind it or install a piece of hardware like an electrical outlet.
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I find out if there are any pipes or wires behind the wall before I start cutting?
    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses.
    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Expert Answer
    You can buy a stud finder at a local home improvement store and use that. Some of the top-notch ones are able to find metal pipes and wires behind walls.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      Advertisement

      Things You’ll Need

      Cutting by Hand with a Jab Saw

      • Pencil
      • Straight edge (optional)
      • Jab saw
      • Metal cutting jab saw blade (optional)
      • Shop vac (optional)
      • Utility knife
      • Face mask and protective goggles

      Using an Electric Rotary Tool

      • Rotary tool
      • Drywall cutting bit or multi-purpose bit
      • Pencil
      • Straight edge
      • Face mask and protective goggles

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Use Dry Wall Anchors
      How to
      Install Ceiling Drywall
      How to
      Install Drywall
      How to
      Remove Mold from Drywall (And When to Call a Professional)
      How to
      Mount a TV on Drywall With and Without Studs
      How to
      Repair Drywall Tape That Is Separating from Your Walls
      How to
      Repair Holes and Cracks in Drywall with Spackle
      How to
      Repair Textured Drywall
      How to
      Hide Drywall Tape That's Showing Through Paint
      How to
      Fix a Hole in Drywall: Filling Nail Holes, Patching Large Holes & More
      The Best Way to Get Rid of Drywall Dust & Prevent It from Spreading
      How to
      Tape and Float Drywall
      How to
      Tape and Mud Drywall
      How to
      Remove Drywall
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.ronhazelton.com/tips/how_to_cut_an_inspection_hole_in_a_wall
      2. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 February 2021.
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-cut-drywall/
      4. ↑ https://www.ronhazelton.com/tips/how_to_cut_an_inspection_hole_in_a_wall
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-cut-drywall/
      6. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-cut-drywall/
      7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSJR5dDOo5U&feature=youtu.be&t=16
      8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSJR5dDOo5U&feature=youtu.be&t=34
      9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSJR5dDOo5U&feature=youtu.be&t=46
      1. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 February 2021.

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 51,380 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • James B.

        Jan 31

        "I'm installing a new bathroom vent fan that is larger than the old one. Just needed to know the best way to ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement