How to Repair Hole in Drywall

Repairing a hole in drywall is not that difficult to do. With the proper tools and material patching a drywall hole can be completed in one day from start to finish. See below for these simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• fiberglass mesh tape
• putty knife
• medium grit sandpapper
• joint compound
• utility knife

1. 

   Cut a piece of mesh tape, leaving about a half inch excess over the hole. Use utility knife to trim excess over hole.

2. 

   Using a putty knife apply joint compound over the mesh tape. Smooth out joint compound so there is no excess.

3. 

   After joint compound dries, lightly sand until the surface is smooth and edges are even with the wall.

4. 

   Prime surface with a primer, let dry, then paint with color to match your wall color.

Tips & Warnings

• Joint compound is completely dry when it's all the same light color. Any dark spots indicates spots are not dry.

[TGoode]

on 5/20/2008 I agree with the need for two (or three) coats of compound, but if you are in a hurry, a hair dryer can be used to speed the drying between coats.

[MacDonald]

on 5/19/2008 Can't do it in a day, it will take two coats of joint compound over fiberglass tape.

[elementpainters]

on 5/18/2008 I would suggest using a primer suitable for the repair. Flat white paint will invariably bubble with a top coat applied due to limited adhesion to the compound.

[showpup]

on 5/17/2008 Great straightforward steps and nice photos. Congrats on being featured on the front page! 5 stars!

[VickyWard]

on 5/17/2008 good to know.