Walls are super important in a house. They’re the first thing people notice. But guess what? They get damaged. Dents, cracks, holes—yep, they happen. Don’t worry though. Fixing these is easier than you think. You can do most repairs yourself.
This guide will walk you through every step. From small dents to big holes, we’ll help you out. Ready to fix those ugly wall imperfections? Let’s go!
If you’ve ever searched for tips on Drywall Repair, you’re in the right place. We’ll cover everything you need to know here—simple and stress-free.
Why Do Walls Get Damaged?
Before jumping into fixes, let’s figure out why walls get messed up in the first place.
Everyday Bumps & Scrapes
Furniture bumping into walls? Happens all the time. These little hits leave behind small marks.
Water Leaks Are Sneaky
Water leaks cause a lot of damage. They weaken walls and make cracks appear.
Poor Workmanship
Sometimes, bad construction is the reason your walls aren’t holding up.
Accidents Happen
Kids playing, moving furniture, or DIY mishaps can leave dents and holes.
Damage happens for all sorts of reasons. But hey, the good news is that most of it can be fixed!
Gather Your Tools & Supplies
Before you dive into repairs, grab everything you need. Having the right supplies makes the process smoother.
Must-Have Supplies
Here’s a list to get you started:
Sandpaper for smoothing surfaces
Spackle or joint compound
Putty knife
A drywall patch kit
Paint that matches your walls
Primer
Dust mask & gloves
Screwdriver
Optional Tools
These will make the job easier:
Utility knife
Wall cleaner or degreaser
Once you have all these tools ready, you’re on your way to fixing those walls.
Step 1: Look at the Damage
First things first—assess the area you’re going to fix. Look closely at the size and type of damage.
Ask yourself these questions:
Is this just a small crack, or a big hole?
Did water cause the issue?
Does it look like something structural?
Getting a full picture of the damage will save time later.
Step 2: Prep the Area
Next, prep the area properly. Trust me, this step makes everything easier.
Clean the Surface
Dirt, dust, and debris will stop you from getting a smooth finish. Grab a damp cloth or a cleaner. Wipe it down well.
Cut Out Loose Parts
Look for any loose drywall. Use a utility knife to cut out anything that’s crumbling or weak.
Wear Your Gear
Don’t skip this part! Put on gloves and a dust mask. Protect yourself from dust and debris.
Now you’re ready to fix things up!
Step 3: Repair Small Dents & Holes
Small problems are simple to fix. They don’t require much time or effort.
Use Spackle
Spackle works wonders for small dents and nail holes.
Here’s how to do it:
Scoop spackle onto your putty knife.
Spread it over the dent or hole.
Let it dry completely (check your product for timing).
Once dry, sand it until smooth.
Paint the Spot
After sanding, grab some matching paint. Touch up the spot so it blends with your wall.
Step 4: Fix Large Holes with a Patch
Big holes aren’t as scary as they sound. A patch kit can solve this issue quickly.
Find Your Drywall Patch
Most hardware stores sell drywall patch kits. They’re easy to use and affordable.
Attach the Patch
Here’s how you attach it:
Cut the drywall patch to fit the hole.
Place it over the hole.
Screw it into place with your screwdriver.
Apply Joint Compound
Once the patch is secure, grab your putty knife and spread joint compound over the patch.
Smooth it out.
Let it dry completely.
Sand & Paint
After the compound dries:
Sand it down until it’s smooth.
Prime and paint the area to match your walls.
Step 5: Fix Cracks
Cracks are a pain but not impossible to fix. Here’s the best way to tackle them.
Clean the Crack
Start by wiping it clean with a damp cloth. Get rid of all the dust and debris.
Apply Joint Compound
Grab your putty knife and spread joint compound over the crack. Press it into the crack so it fills completely.
Let It Dry
Give it time to dry. Drying times vary, so read the instructions on your compound.
Sand & Paint
Once it’s dry:
Sand the area smooth.
Prime and paint the spot to make it look like new.
Step 6: Fix Uneven Walls with Texture
Sometimes wall repairs can leave the surface uneven. Adding a bit of texture can fix this problem.
You can use different types of wall textures—knockdown, popcorn, or orange peel are popular options. They add style and hide imperfections well.
How to Fix Uneven Walls
Grab a texture spray or joint compound.
Spread it evenly over the uneven spots with a trowel.
Let it dry completely.
Texturing your walls is easy and gives your space a fresh look.
Step 7: Finish with Final Touches
You’re almost there. Now that you’ve done all the hard work, here’s what’s next.
Clean Up
Pick up your tools and clean out all the dust and debris from your work area.
Touch-Up Painting
Check the repaired spots. If they need another coat of paint, add it now.
Wait Before Using the Space
Let everything dry completely before moving furniture back or touching the repaired area.
When Should You Call a Pro?
DIY repairs are great for most wall fixes. But there are times when calling a professional is better.
You might want to hire someone if:
The damage is very extensive or structural.
There’s been long-term water damage.
You’re unsure about how to proceed.
Professionals have the skills and tools to ensure the problem is fixed properly.