How to Repair Damaged Drywall

Author : Professional Home Repair | Published On : 02 May 2024

Now, take a look at the wall in your living room you once used to display your paintings and other notable memories – now all it looks like is some war zone. Holes as big as missing teeth line the surface, and cracks are fingers of water flowing through the gutters of the walls, proving the heaviness of objects above and below being placed by inexperienced people. Fear not, weary homeowner! At the cost of a bit of know-how and ample tools, you can have blemish-free drywall home repair solutions.

This guide is written in such a way that whether you have been through terrible DIY or have just started it, you will be able to follow the steps and rectify the flaw. From start to finish, we'll explain each step thoroughly as we focus on the works with tiny holes and even cracks.

A Guide: Compelling Home Drywall Home Repair Solutions

Let's start by making sure that you have the tools needed to carry out this task. You can always think of them as your friends and well-wishers who accompany you on this journey by providing fun elements such as funny GIFs and attractive surfacing elements. Here's an essential checklist:

Utility Knife: This multi-purpose tool may have been used to measure hole width, eliminate cracks, and cut the supplants.

Putty Knife: They are removable and come in different sizes. Primarily used for applying joint compounds (spackle), they are used to spread joints and to smooth surfaces after patches have been applied.

Sandpaper: To move towards the smooth finish, you will need two kinds of sandpaper for roughing and final finishing (coarse for initial smoothing and fine for final touches).

Joint Compound Cavalry: Use a multi-layer work and apply the compound on a mesh patch at thin layers; make sure each layer dries up before applying the next layer.

Sanding Symphony: When you are done with your final layer of the joint compound, use the sandpaper for your last step and make sure the surface is smooth and straight.

Paint and Paint Roller (Optional): When the repair is finished, your wall will regain its original look due to the new coat of paint covering it.

Mission: Patch Up Those Tiny Troopers! Fixing Small Holes

Let's begin with the infantry of drywall damage – small holes caused by nails, screws, or minor dings. These are relatively straightforward to fix.

Prep the Battlefield: Using your utility knife, slightly widen the hole to create a better surface for the joint compound to adhere to.

Fill 'Er Up!: Scoop a small amount of joint compound with your putty knife. Apply gentle pressure to fill the hole, ensuring the compound is slightly above the wall surface.

Smooth Operator: Once the joint compound dries (refer to the manufacturer's instructions for drying times), use your fine-grit sandpaper to gently smooth out the patched area until it blends seamlessly with the surrounding wall.

Paint Your Masterpiece (Optional): After cleaning the area, apply a fresh coat of paint that matches your existing wall colour.

Conquering the Cracks: Strategies for Split Personalities

Now, let's tackle those pesky cracks that mar your once-unified wall with the help of a drywall handyman. The approach will vary depending on the severity of the crack.

Hairline Cracks: These tiny fissures require minimal effort. Apply a thin layer of joint compound with your putty knife, smooth it out, and sand it after drying.

Wider Cracks: For more prominent cracks, consider using a mesh patch for added reinforcement.

Widen the Divide: With your utility knife, slightly widen the crack to create a "V" shape. This ensures better adhesion for the joint compound.

Mesh Mission: Cut a piece of mesh patch slightly larger than the crack. Press the mesh patch firmly into the widened crack, ensuring it adheres to the surrounding drywall.

Joint Compound Cavalry: Apply multiple thin coats of joint compound over the mesh patch, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.

Sanding Symphony: Once the final layer of the joint compound dries, use sandpaper to achieve a smooth and even surface.

When to Consider Professional Help:

Although it is possible to do most drywall repairs by yourself, certain circumstances will require you to get a professional. Here are some signs it's time to enlist help by searching  ‘home repair contractors near me’:

Large Holes: Any drywall holes over a several-inch diameter warrant a close examination, and even more significant dents will likely need a professional handyperson to correct them.

Water Damage: If the drywall damage arises from water leaks or condensation, remedial work with experts is the only way to deal with the inherent cause and avoid further problems.

Electrical Concerns: Take into account repairs that will entail implications in wiring circuits. Therefore, a professional electrician should always be consulted.

Professional Home Repair: The Master Artisans 

For those seeking the guidance of true masters, there are home repair solutions that offer the expertise of seasoned artisans. Professional Home Repair, a brand dedicated to preserving the beauty of your sanctuary, employs skilled artisans who will treat your walls with the utmost care and precision.