Drywall Repair the DIY Way
Before you paint a wall you need a smooth, defect-free surface. Depending on the state of your drywall, you may need to repair a few cracks and holes before it’s time to paint.
With a little bit of patience and the right tools you can easily repair most cracks and holes. Here are the best ways to repair two of the most common drywall issues you’ll encounter as a homeowner.
Fixing Holes in Drywall
Your drywall could have holes for a variety of reasons: nails from hanging photos, screws, hooks or a dent from a stray doorknob. These are the the most common drywall repairs you’ll have to tackle, and it’s also an easy fix:
- Scrape out any debris from the hole.
- Using fast-drying spackle, cover the hole with the help of your taping knife. Make sure the surface is level and smooth.
- Allow the spackle to dry for 24 hours (read the instructions, though — different products will have different drying times.)
- Smooth out the surface with sandpaper.
You could face a number of different drywall issues, though. We’ll talk about cracks next, but if your issue isn’t covered here Popular Mechanic has created an incredibly helpful guide to 31 common drywall repairs.
Repairing Drywall Cracks
Cracks in drywall are a common side effect of your home settling. If your home has suffered foundation distress or was recently built you’ll be more likely to have these types of repairs. Fixing a hole is simple, but repairing cracks is slightly more time-consuming and involved.
You’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Mud pan
- Dust mask
- Painters tape
- Utility knife
- Taping knife
- Paper drywall tape
- Pre-mixed joint compound
- Setting type compound
Be sure to gather all of your supplies beforehand, and don’t skip out on any of the recommended materials. If you don’t take the time and care to repair the crack appropriately now, it’s more likely to reappear.
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