The Ultimate Drywall Repair Guide: Fixing Holes, Cracks, and Common Wall Problems

xpressdrywallandta
Apr 30
4 min read

Drywall damage happens in every home. Whether it’s a nail pop, a door knob ding, or a large crack from settling — these issues are more common than you think. The good news? Most drywall repairs are easier than they look, and with the right steps, you can get your walls looking smooth and paint-ready again.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix the most common drywall problems — from small holes to serious damage. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a DIY patch or a contractor looking for a go-to resource, this guide has everything you need.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before getting started, here’s a quick list of tools and materials you'll want to have on hand:

Utility knife
Drywall saw (for larger holes)
Putty knife (4–6 inch)
Sanding sponge or sandpaper (medium/fine grit)
Joint compound or spackle
Self-adhesive mesh tape or patch
Drywall screws (if securing a new piece)
Primer and matching paint
Dust mask and drop cloth

Pro Tip: It’s better to do multiple thin coats of compound than one heavy one — this saves time sanding and improves finish quality.

How to Drywall Repair Small Holes (Nail Holes, Screw Holes)

These are the simplest repairs — think of holes from picture frames, curtain rods, or anchor screws.

Step-by-step:

Lightly sand the area.
Apply spackle or joint compound with a putty knife.
Let it dry (most products turn white when ready).
Sand smooth.
Prime and paint.

Fixing Medium Holes (1–2 Inches)

These might come from doorknob hits or small accidents.

Option A: Mesh Patch

Square off the hole.
Apply a mesh patch over it.
Spread joint compound over the patch and feather the edges.
Let dry, sand, and re-coat if needed.
Prime and paint.

Option B: Backer Strip + Patch

For added strength, insert wood behind the hole and screw in a new drywall piece. Then tape, mud, and finish as above.

Repairing Large Holes (3+ Inches)

Larger holes require a drywall insert.

Steps:

Cut out the damaged area into a clean square.
Insert a wood support or drywall repair clip behind the hole.
Cut and screw in a new piece of drywall.
Apply tape to all seams.
Use joint compound in 2–3 feathered layers.
Sand between coats.
Prime and paint.

Safety Note: Always check for wires and plumbing before cutting into walls.

How to Fix Drywall Cracks

Cracks around doors, windows, or ceilings are common in older homes.

Best method:

Widen the crack into a V-shape.
Clean the area.
Apply mesh tape.
Coat with joint compound.
Sand, prime, and paint.

Pro Tip: Repeating cracks may signal a bigger issue (foundation or moisture). If unsure, consult a professional.

Nail Pops and Screw Pops

These appear as bumps where drywall fasteners loosen over time.

To fix:

Drive two screws into the stud — above and below the pop.
Tap the popped nail in or remove it.
Cover with joint compound.
Sand, prime, and paint.

Blending Texture After Repair

Textured walls or ceilings require special attention.

Orange peel or knockdown: Use spray texture or sponge technique.
Popcorn ceiling: Feather a new coat of texture using a spray product or patch kit.
Test first! Always practice on scrap drywall before applying texture to a visible area.

When to Call a Drywall Pro

While small repairs are doable for DIYers, it’s best to hire a pro when:

The damage is water-related or structural
The job involves ceilings or high walls
There are multiple large holes or rooms
You want a perfectly smooth, ready-to-paint finish

At Xpress Drywall & Taping, we provide high-quality patching and full drywall services that look clean and last long.

Download Our Free Guide: “How to Hire the Right Drywall Contractor”

Avoid the headaches of DIY mistakes or unreliable contractors. Our guide covers:

Key questions to ask before hiring.
Red flags to watch out for.
How to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Click For Free Guide!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes drywall cracks?Cracks usually come from settling foundations, temperature changes, or improper installation. Some hairline cracks are cosmetic, but recurring ones may indicate deeper issues.

Can I just fill a crack with spackle?Spackle may work for minor cosmetic cracks, but for long-term fixes, it’s best to tape and mud the crack to prevent it from reopening.

How long should drywall compound dry before sanding?Standard drying time is 24 hours, but fast-drying compounds may be ready in 45–90 minutes. Always check the label.

What’s the difference between spackle and joint compound?Spackle is typically used for small holes and dries faster. Joint compound is ideal for taping seams, larger holes, and applying multiple coats.

Do I need to prime over a drywall patch before painting?Yes. Primer seals the repair, prevents flashing (visible seams), and helps paint adhere evenly.

Get a Free Quote for Your Basement Drywall Project

Contact us today for expert drywall installation and finishing services. With 20+ years of experience, we ensure a seamless, stress-free process from start to finish.

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