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Got Holes in Your Wall?  DIY Drywall Repair

Whether it’s a small ding from a doorknob or a dent from a misguided chair, as a homeowner chances are you will eventually face the need for some drywall repairs. Fixing small drywall damage is actually a great project for even the amateur do-it-yourselfer.  The process is relatively simple, with minimal supplies needed and can easily be completed from start to finish in less than a day.

For small damage to drywall the following steps can quickly have your wall looking as good as new.

1. Clean the hole with a blade knife. Angle the cut so that the exterior of the hole is larger than the interior.
2. Fill the hole with drywall mud, (joint \compound). This can be purchased at any hardware store.  Be sure to level the compound with the surface of the wall.
3. Let the compound dry completely.  This should not take more than a few hours.  The drying process can be accelerated by directing a household fan towards the area. 
4. Once dry, lightly sand the surface area until it is smooth to the touch.
5. Apply a very thin layer of compound over the corrected area and let dry. 

For medium-sized drywall damage, you will need to use a drywall metal patch to repair the wall.  This can also be purchased at a hardware store and can be cut to cover an inch or two beyond the hole that you are covering. 

After sanding and dusting the area, peel the paper backing off of the drywall patch and firmly press it in place with the mesh facing outward.  Then spread drywall compound over the mesh, smoothing it out as you do.  Once dry, you can gently sand the area until the wall is smooth.

Repairing larger holes can be a little more challenging. You will need patches made out of drywall to make the repair.  For this and larger projects, it may be easier to have a professional like the HandyPro team assist.