How To Patch Drywall

Patching drywall is a common home repair that turns unsightly holes and damage back into smooth walls. Whether you’re dealing with small nail pops, medium-sized holes from doorknobs, or larger areas of damage, the proper technique can make your walls look as good as new. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates various methods for patching drywall, from simple fixes to more involved repairs.

Common Types of Drywall Damage

Drywall damage can occur in various forms and sizes, and each needs its own particular repair. Before diving into the patching process, identify the type and extent of damage you’re dealing with. Here are the most common types of damage:

• Cracks and seam separations
• Large holes or sections of damaged drywall
• Medium-sized holes from doorknobs or accidents
• Nail pops and screw holes
• Small holes from wall anchors or hooks

Assessing the Damage

Before starting any repair, carefully examine the damaged area. Consider the hole or crack size, the surrounding drywall’s condition, and whether there might be underlying issues such as moisture damage or structural problems. This assessment will help you determine the best repair method and materials needed.

For instance, minor issues like nail pops might indicate slight settling in the house, while larger cracks may suggest foundational problems. Addressing the root cause will help repairs last longer and prevent recurring damage.

Tools and Materials for Drywall Repair

Here’s a list of items you’ll need for the project.

• 1×2 wood strips (for backing large holes)
• Caulk gun
• Construction adhesive
• Drill/driver
• Drywall hawk
• Drywall knives (4-inch and 12-inch)
• Drywall saw

• Drywall screws
• Drywall tape or mesh
• Joint compound
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Scrap drywall (for larger repairs)
• Utility knife

Repairing Small Holes and Nail Pops

Small holes and nail pops are the most common types of drywall damage and are relatively easy to fix. Silva demonstrates a straightforward method for addressing these minor imperfections without much hassle.

Steps for Fixing Small Holes and Nail Pops

1. Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the damaged area using a 4-inch drywall knife.
2. Allow the compound to dry completely.
3. Sand the area lightly with fine-grit sandpaper.
4. Apply a second thin coat of joint compound, feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding wall.
5. Let the second coat dry, then sand again for a smooth finish.
6. If necessary, apply a third coat for a perfectly smooth surface.

Remember to keep your coats thin and even. Applying multiple thin layers prevents excessive shrinkage and reduces the amount of sanding needed.

Besides small holes, this method works well for tiny cracks and minor imperfections around screws and fasteners that may have popped out due to home settling, or minor impacts.

Patching Medium-Sized Drywall Holes

For holes that are too large for simple compound filling but not big enough to require a drywall patch, an adhesive-backed aluminum patch is an excellent solution.

Using an Adhesive-Backed Patch

1. Clean the area around the hole, removing any loose debris.
2. Cut the adhesive-backed patch to size, checking that it extends beyond the damaged area by a good bit for sturdiness.
3. Peel off the protective backing and press the patch firmly over the hole.
4. Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the entire patch using a 12-inch drywall knife.
5. Allow the compound to dry completely, then sand lightly.
6. Apply additional thin coats of compound as needed, sanding between each coat.

Silva emphasizes using a patch larger than the hole for adequate support and to prevent future cracking. This is particularly beneficial for medium-sized holes caused by removed fixtures.

This method is also helpful when fixing holes left by heavy-duty wall anchors or screws that have been removed, making a strong, lasting repair without extensive effort.

Repairing Large Holes in Drywall

Large holes require a more involved repair process. In the video, Silva shows a clever method for patching larger holes and creating an effective fix.

Steps for Patching Large Holes

1. Cut a rectangular piece of scrap drywall slightly larger than the hole.
2. Place the scrap over the hole and trace its outline onto the wall.
3. Use a drywall saw to cut along the traced lines, enlarging the hole to a clean, rectangular shape.
4. Cut two 1×2 wood strips slightly longer than the hole’s height.
5. Apply construction adhesive to the strips and insert them into the hole, positioning them vertically along the sides.
6. Secure the strips with drywall screws, making sure they’re recessed slightly from the wall surface.
7. Cut your drywall patch to fit the enlarged hole’s exact shape.
8. Screw the patch into place, attaching it to the wooden backing strips.
9. Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the patch and surrounding area.
10. Press a piece of fiberglass mesh tape into the wet compound, covering all seams.
11. Apply additional layers of compound, feathering the edges to blend with the wall.
12. Allow each layer to dry completely and sand between coats for a smooth finish.

This method provides a sturdy repair that’s less likely to crack or become noticeable. It’s particularly effective for holes caused by accidents or the removal of large fixtures.

When addressing damage caused by plumbing repairs or electrical work, be sure the underlying issue is resolved before patching to avoid further damage.

Finishing Techniques for a Seamless Look

Achieving a truly professional-looking repair requires attention to detail in the finishing process. Here are some tips so your patched area blends perfectly with the surrounding wall:

Sanding and Feathering

• Feather the edges of each coat of compound, extending it further out from the repair area with each application.
• Use progressively finer grits of sandpaper as you work through the dry layers of compound.
• Use a sanding sponge for curved or textured surfaces to keep the wall’s original contour.

Good sanding and feathering make the compound blend seamlessly into the wall, eliminating any obvious edges or transitions.

Texture Matching

• For textured walls, you may need to recreate the texture on the patched area.
• Practice on a scrap piece of drywall before applying texture to your repair.
• Use a small roller, sponge, or spray texture to match the surrounding wall texture.

Texture matching is another method to help the repair blend in with the rest of the wall, making it indistinguishable from the original surface. However, some textures are especially difficult to match, so don’t hesitate to hire a professional if you need help.

Priming and Painting

By following the below steps, your patch will look like an integral part of the wall, not an obvious repair.

• Once the repair is complete and fully dry, prime the entire patched area.
• After the primer dries, paint the repaired section, feathering the paint beyond the patched area to blend with the existing wall color.
• For the best results, consider repainting the entire wall for a uniform appearance.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to keep in mind:

• Always work in a well-ventilated area so it dries properly and to minimize inhalation of dust and fumes.
• Use drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect floors and furniture from dust and splatters.
• Take your time and don’t rush the drying process between coats. Patience results in a better finish.
• Clean your tools immediately after use to maintain their longevity and effectiveness.