Drywall Repair Tricks Every Homeowner Should Know

Drywall damage is something almost everyone encounters. Whether it is from doorknobs, moving furniture, or the accidents that come with family life, holes and dents can make your walls look tired. Fortunately, most minor drywall repairs are simple enough for the average homeowner to tackle. With the right approach and a little prep work, you can make your walls look like new again. Handydads is here to help you patch up those eyesores using tried-and-tested methods.

Project Snapshot

This project guides you through patching small to medium holes in drywall. You will learn how to prep the area, apply patch material, sand for smoothness, and finish with matching paint. It is ideal for beginners looking to improve their home's appearance quickly and affordably.

Tools and Materials

You’ll need a drywall patch kit or mesh, a putty knife, sanding block or sponge, utility knife, joint compound, primer, paint, and a paintbrush or roller. Having a dust mask and drop cloth will help keep your area tidy and safe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by clearing loose debris from the damaged area and lightly scoring around the hole with a utility knife. Apply the self-adhesive mesh or patch over the hole, pressing it firmly to ensure it adheres well. Spread joint compound over the patch with your putty knife, feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding wall. Allow the compound to dry fully before sanding it smooth with your sanding block. Wipe the area clean, apply primer, and finish with touch-up paint to restore your wall’s finish.

From the Toolbox

One of our Handydads team members recalls a weekend project where a child’s indoor hockey game resulted in several wall dents. Rather than stress, they made it a family DIY lesson. With a little help from eager young hands and guidance from an experienced Handydads pro, the repair became a fun learning activity. The finished result was a flawless wall and a sense of accomplishment for everyone involved.

Top 5 Mistakes

People often rush and skip proper sanding, leaving a visible bump after painting. Neglecting to feather the edges of the compound can make the patch obvious. Using too much or too little compound makes smoothing difficult. Forgetting to prime before painting often leads to poor paint adhesion or color mismatch. Many also use the wrong paint sheen, drawing attention to the repair.

Tool and Material Recommendations

A metal putty knife will provide cleaner edges than a plastic one. Mesh patches are easier for beginners compared to cutting custom drywall pieces. Choose a fine grit sanding sponge to avoid scratching finished walls. All-purpose joint compound works well for most small holes. Match your primer and paint sheen to your existing wall for a professional finish.

Quick Tips and Hacks

Keep a light touch when feathering compound to blend seamlessly. Use a fan to speed dry times. Squeeze extra compound from your putty knife before smoothing final layers. Test paint on a hidden spot first to ensure an exact match. Store leftover patching supplies for quick future fixes.

Need a Hand?

Not sure if you have the time or tools to tackle drywall repairs yourself? Call Handydads for expert repairs and a flawless finish every time. Get your free estimate today.