DIY Drywall Repair Tips for Holes, Cracks & Water Damage

DIY drywall repair can be executed with the right tools, materials, and a bit of know-how. However, if you’re unsure how to go about the process, it’s best to leave the job to a skilled and experienced handyman in Collinsville, TX. The experts at Mr. Handyman can be trusted to install, repair, and refinish your drywall surfaces and restore their former glory. In this guide, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to fixing common drywall issues.

Start With the Right Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather your supplies. You'll need joint compound (also known as mud), a putty knife, sandpaper, drywall patches or mesh tape, and possibly a drywall saw or utility knife if you're dealing with larger holes. A dust mask and drop cloths are helpful too. Having everything ready ahead of time makes the process smoother and quicker. There's nothing more frustrating than stopping mid-repair to run to the hardware store.

Small Holes? Keep It Simple

Tiny holes left by nails or screws are the easiest to fix. Just clean out any loose material from the hole, apply a small amount of joint compound with a putty knife, and smooth it out. Once it's dry, sand lightly and apply a second coat if needed. After a quick touch-up with paint, it’ll look like nothing ever happened. This kind of repair takes minutes, and it’s a great confidence booster if you’re new to drywall work.

For Medium Damage, Use a Patch

When the hole is larger—say, from a doorknob or elbow—you’ll want to use a patch. Self-adhesive mesh patches make this job easier. Stick the patch over the hole, then apply joint compound over the top, feathering the edges outward to blend with the wall. Let it dry, sand it smooth, and repeat if necessary. Be sure to feather the edges to make your repair invisible under paint.

Dealing With Bigger Repairs

Large holes or serious damage may require cutting a new piece of drywall. Measure and cut out the damaged area in a clean square or rectangle. Then, cut a matching piece of drywall, secure it in place with backing strips or wall studs, and tape the seams. Cover everything with joint compound in layers, sanding between coats. It’s more work, yes, but totally doable. Don’t rush the drying or sanding steps—smoothness is everything. If you have any doubts, seek help from an trusted handyman.

Finish Strong With Paint

Once your patched area is smooth and dry, it’s time to paint. Use a primer first to seal the joint compound, then paint over with your wall color. If you’ve matched the texture and paint well, no one will ever notice there was damage at all.

Need Professional Drywall Repair? Call the Experts at Mr. Handyman

We hope this guide has provided you with the basics that you need to get started with DIY drywall repairs. Remember, whether you’re dealing with cosmetic issues or larger structural issues, it’s important to get the job done right. For complicated repairs that require professional expertise, Mr. Handyman is here to help. Our skilled and experienced professionals at Mr. Handyman are just a phone call away. Contact us today to request a quote and book an appointment for drywall repair or replacement.