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How To

How to Fix a Hole in the Wall

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(38 Ratings)

You can easily repair holes in sheetrock walls with a just few tools and a little patience, even if you've never fixed a hole in a wall before. The size of the hole in the wall determines the complexity of the repair, with small holes being especially easy to fix.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Soft bristle brush
  • Medium to fine grit sandpaper
  • Utility knife
  • Straightedge
  • Drywall
  • Drywall screws
  • Drywall or sheetrock tape
  • Drywall compound
  • Putty knife
  • Paint
  1. Step 1

    Remove any debris or remaining paper from the holes. Tear away any loose wall material and brush away the dust. Smooth the area around the hole with a soft bristle brush followed by a medium to fine grit sandpaper.

  2. Step 2

    Use a utility knife to cut the hole into a symmetrical square. Press firmly into the wall material and use a straightedge to follow a careful line. Remove the excess wall material.

  3. Step 3

    Prepare and cut another piece of drywall using a utility knife to fit the square made in the previous step. Be certain the new piece is slightly smaller than the repair area.

  4. Step 4

    Place the new square patch into the hole and tack into place with a drywall screw. You can secure the patch into the wall firmly with this method.

  5. Step 5

    Cut strips of drywall or sheetrock tape and tape over the edges of the repaired area.

  6. Step 6

    Apply a thin layer of drywall compound over the patched area evenly. Spread across the patch and tape with a putty knife. Extend the compound past the edges about 6 inches.

  7. Step 7

    Sand the patched area once the drywall compound has dried. Use a medium to fine grit sandpaper. Paint the area after you remove all dust and debris.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use backing strips behind the drywall hole if you don't find a stud.
  • Place a fan a few feet in front of the drywall compound area to dry faster.
  • Wear a respirator at all times.

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