I started removing the old backsplash. Unfortunately, the drywall underneath was torn to shreds in the process and I ended up ripping it out and replacing.
This particular section of the backsplash is bounded by cabinets on top and the kitchen counter on the bottom. I left about 1" of the existing drywall on the top and bottom and was planning to just tape the seams and move on with the project.
I'm doubting myself now because as you can see, the existing drywall is in pretty rough shape, and along the bottom there are some pretty egregious gouges, so I would need to do a lot of prefilling and other prep work before taping.
Questions
- Is it a good idea to rip out the remaining old drywall (just the visible ~1" along the top and bottom) and replace with new sheets that span the entire height from counter to cabinet?
- If so, do I need to tape the seams? Is it even possible?
- The left side of the drywall is floating ~6.5" from the corner because there is no stud there -- it feels pretty solid but I am a bit concerned. I may be able to get a piece of 2x4 in there and make something work, but there's not a lot of space to maneuver behind the wall there.
All things considered, nothing here needs to look pretty, but I want to make sure it is a structurally sound (and straight) surface to tile on.