Repairing Holes in Walls

Repairing a hole in your wall is easier than you think and there is usually no need to call a handyman. Even large holes can be a do-it-yourself project. Here are some tips to repairing a hole in your wall. First off, you need to do some preparation and planning. Make sure you have the right tools for the job including putty knives, sandpaper with both course and fine grit and compound. Larger jobs will require more materials and tools such as drywall, drywall nails or screws and a trowel. Make sure that the area around the patch is clean so the compound will adhere to the wall. Next, you need to determine the best method for repairing the hole and this depends on the size of the hole. For small holes that are no larger than a dime, e.g. nail and screw holes, all you need to do is patch it with putty (wall compound). Simply apply a little putty, use a scraper or putty knife to make it flush with the surrounding wall, wait for it to dry, and sand it smooth. For holes that are slightly larger, say the size of a switch plate, you’ll need to fill the hole with newspaper before applying the putty. When applying the putty make sure that you use a putty knife that is wider than the hole to ensure it becomes flush.

For medium size holes no larger than about 10 inches you need to apply a hot patch. Cut a piece of drywall the approximate size and shape of the hole and apply drywall tape to the edges to create a flap for affixing to the wall. Apply drywall compound to the entire area and make three to four applications until the area is level and smooth.