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Sanding solid surfaces with Mirka LEROS-S sander

Mirka® LEROS-S Compact Electric Random Orbital Sander

Reach closer.

S for Short: The Mirka® LEROS-S is a compact 35” length brushless random orbital sander that works on large surfaces in small spaces.

Engineered for large surfaces in confined spaces

Shorter Length, Big Performance

Sanding solid surfaces with the short Mirka LEROS-S

The Mirka LEROS-S sander was designed for effortless sanding of walls and drywall in small spaces such as bathrooms, narrow corridors, and walk-in closets. It is also an ideal sander for large wood and composite surfaces in manufacturing.

The LEROS-S is light, balanced, and easy to handle. Its 9” sanding pad with 5 mm random orbit glides easily across surfaces, making it possible to work quickly and still achieve a high-quality surface finish.

Flexible sanding head for working comfort

High Flexibility

Sanding drywall in confined spaces with the Mirka® LEROS-S

The highly flexible 9” sanding head has amazing maneuverability to make sanding easier and more ergonomic. A better working position reduces muscle strain and makes sanding more comfortable, so fewer breaks are needed.

Two dedicated grip points provide secure control of the sanding tool. When you need a longer reach, the LEROS-S can also be fitted with an extension.

Faster, cleaner, healthier

Dust-Free Sanding Complete System

Sanding in confined spaces makes it even more vital to eliminate dust. Dust-Free Systems featuring LEROS-S provide a cleaner, healthier work environment and better results.

In addition to the time savings from less prep work and cleanup, the dust-free sanding process goes more smoothly. Without clogging, abrasives stay sharp longer and there is less pilling that can cause defects in the sanding surface. Plus, a clearer view allows for more exacting work.

Easy to handle in tight spaces

Mirka® LEROS-S, Short Length Drywall Sander

In construction and decoration work, the LEROS-S shines in sanding bathroom walls, narrow corridors, walk-in closets and more, with two dedicated grip points for full control.

Abrasives made for dust-free sanding

Dust-Free Pioneers

Mirka, the Dust-Free Pioneers, started the transformation to better sanding over 20-years-ago with Abranet abrasives, still the leading net abrasive on the market.

Learn more about our dust-free sanding

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 How to Patch and Repair Drywall

Uneven walls, visible cracks, and damaged drywall can delay finishing work and increase rework on-site. For contractors and renovators, poor surface repair often leads to problems with paint adhesion, joint failure, and time-consuming corrections. These issues affect both quality and project timelines.

Knowing how to patch and repair drywall the right way helps prevent these setbacks. A clean, smooth surface supports every stage that follows—priming, painting, and final inspection.

In this article, you will learn the exact steps to patch and repair drywall for a strong, smooth, and lasting finish.

Why Proper Drywall Patching and Repair Matters

A smooth, well-repaired drywall surface is essential for a professional finish. Poor repairs can cause visible lines, uneven paint, and future cracking. This impacts both the appearance and the durability of the wall.

Proper sanding after each compound layer ensures the patch blends fully with the original surface. This creates a level base for primer and paint. When done correctly, the repaired area becomes invisible and long-lasting.

Taking the time to sand with the right tools improves results and reduces rework. According to field tests carried out by Mirka, increasing sanding time by 20 percent can reduce finishing time by 30 percent. This shows how investing in proper surface preparation leads to faster finishing and better results.

Drywall repair is not just about covering holes. It is about restoring surface quality. That requires the right process, materials, and equipment to get it done right the first time.

Step 1: Inspect and Prepare the Damaged Area

Start by identifying the type of drywall damage. Common issues include small holes from screws or nails, surface cracks, dents, or large missing sections.

Cut away any loose or damaged drywall using a utility knife. This helps create a clean and stable edge around the repair area.

Use a sanding block to remove rough spots. This gives the surface an even texture before patching.

Wipe the area with a dry cloth to remove dust. A clean surface ensures that the patching compound will bond properly.

Step 2: Choose the Right Patch Type

The patching method depends on the size of the damage:

  • Small holes: Use a lightweight patching compound or mesh tape. These are suitable for nail or screw holes.
  • Medium holes: Use a self-adhesive mesh patch. These patches hold compound well and keep the repair stable.
  • Large holes: Cut a new piece of drywall to fit. Secure it in place using a backer board behind the opening.

Select the method that matches the repair size. This ensures the patch holds firm and blends well with the surrounding wall.

Step 3: Apply Joint Compound or Patch Material

Use a putty knife to spread joint compound over the repair area.

For small repairs, one layer may be enough. For larger patches, apply compound over the seams and press mesh tape into place.

Spread the compound about 2 to 3 inches beyond the patch edges to help blend the repair smoothly with the wall.

Let the compound dry completely before sanding. Follow the manufacturer's drying times based on product type and room conditions.

Step 4: Let It Dry and Sand the Surface Smooth

Once the compound dries fully, sanding makes the patched area smooth and level with the surrounding wall. Choosing the right tool speeds up this process and improves the surface quality.

Below are the recommended Mirka tools for drywall sanding, each with specific benefits.

Use Mirka® LEROS for Large Wall and Ceiling Areas

The Mirka® LEROS is a professional-grade electric sander built for sanding full walls and ceilings.

Key Features:

  • 180-degree flexible sanding head
  • 5 mm random orbital movement
  • 7 lbs - lightweight and ergonomic design
  • Designed for large vertical and overhead surfaces
  • Compatible with Mirka’s Dust-Free System

Mirka® LEROS covers wide areas quickly while maintaining an even finish. The flexible head adjusts to surface contours, reducing the need for manual correction. It also reduces operator fatigue during ceiling work.

When working on larger drywall repairs or entire wall resurfacing, Mirka® LEROS ensures speed, comfort, and consistency. Its dust-free performance keeps the workspace cleaner, which also reduces rework.

Use Mirka® LEROS-S for Tricky Tight or Confined Spaces

The Mirka® LEROS-S is a compact version of the LEROS sander. It is designed for small or narrow spaces.

Key Features:

  • Shorter body for tighter access
  • 9-inch sanding head with orbital movement
  • Two grip points for full control
  • Ergonomic and lightweight build to reduce strain
  • Fully compatible with Mirka’s Dust-Free System

Mirka® LEROS-S allows precise sanding in closets, corners, and small drywall sections. Its control and compact size help maintain accuracy without over-sanding.

Choose Mirka® LEROS-S when drywall patches are in tight areas or around fixtures. It improves reach without sacrificing surface quality.

Use Mirka® DEROS for General Repair and Touch-ups

The Mirka® DEROS is a lightweight random orbital sander suitable for mid-size patches and general drywall smoothing.

Key Features:

  • Brushless motor for smooth performance
  • Low vibration for safer long-term use
  • Compact and lightweight body
  • Available in multiple sizes (3", 5", 6")
  • Bluetooth® enabled for vibration tracking

Mirka® DEROS works well for localized patching and feathering. It balances power and control, especially when transitioning between patched and original drywall surfaces.

Use Mirka® DEROS for consistent results on medium drywall repairs. It handles joint lines, edges, and small imperfections with precision.

Use Abranet® for Dust-Free and Smooth Results

Abranet® is a net-structured abrasive made specifically for drywall and interior surfaces.

Key Features:

  • Open mesh design for full-surface dust extraction
  • Long lifespan with minimal clogging
  • Available in multiple grits for different needs
  • Smooth scratch pattern for an even finish

Abranet® allows continuous dust suction during sanding, preventing buildup on the disc. This keeps the surface clean and the sanding more efficient.

Pair Abranet® with LEROS, LEROS-S, or DEROS for optimal results. It increases sanding speed and minimizes cleanup.

Use Mirka Dust Extractors for Clean and Safe Workspaces

Mirka’s Dust Extractors are engineered to maintain a dust-free work environment during drywall sanding.

Key Features:

  • High-performance suction power
  • Automatic filter cleaning
  • Quiet operation
  • Durable build for construction environments

These units connect directly to Mirka sanders and Abranet®. They remove dust at the source, helping prevent mess and airborne particles.

A dust-free system improves safety, reduces post-sanding cleanup, and extends abrasive life. It also helps comply with job-site dust regulations.

Step 5: Repeat Compound and Sanding If Needed

If the surface is still uneven after the first coat, apply another layer of joint compound. Let it dry completely.

After drying, sand the area again using the same Mirka tools and abrasives from the previous step. Repeat the process until the surface is flat and smooth.

Check the wall under direct light. The patch should blend in with the surrounding drywall and show no visible edges.

Step 6: Clean the Surface and Apply Primer

Once sanding is complete, remove all remaining dust. When using Mirka’s Dust-Free System, there is little to no visible dust on the surface or in the air.

If needed, wipe the surface gently with a damp cloth to remove any fine particles.

Apply a drywall primer. This seals the repaired area and ensures even paint absorption across the wall.

Mirka’s dust-free tools help reduce cleaning time and improve primer performance by creating a clean surface right after sanding.

Step 7: Paint the Repaired Wall

After the primer dries, apply paint that matches the surrounding wall. Use a brush or roller to blend the new paint into the existing surface.

Make sure the patch is not visible through the paint. If needed, apply a second coat for full coverage.

This step completes the drywall repair and restores the wall to a finished look.

Conclusion

A proper drywall repair makes the surface flat, clean, and ready for finishing. Each step—patching, sanding, priming, and painting—has a purpose. When followed in order, the result is smooth and durable.

Skipping any part can lead to cracks, uneven paint, or extra rework. A clean repair also saves time during painting. For any construction or renovation job, a well-done patch is not just a fix—it is part of the final finish.