by AJ Savage

Created on: December 29, 2008

Simple Home Repairs Series

How to Patch a Hole in Drywall

Oops! You've just put a hole in your wall, by accident of course, but that makes it none the less frustrating. Maybe you live in a rental, your moving out and to ensure the return of your security deposit you must patch all those little nail holes from your hung decorations and artwork. No matter what the reason, don't worry; the repair is relatively simple, inexpensive and easy. By following the steps below you should be able to patch your drywall no matter what the size of the hole that has been created.

For Patching Small Holes:

Step 1:

You are going to want to strip away any raised portion(s) of the drywall paper surrounding the edge of the hole. This will prevent the paper from tearing and making a larger "bad spot" as you are working on it. You may want to "rub them out" to prevent the aforementioned.

Step 2:

Use sandpaper around all the edges of the hole you are going to repair. You want the paint surrounding the hole to be rough and scraped. This ensures that whatever compound you decide to apply, it will adhere.

Step 3:

Apply a self-adhesive plastic mesh tape over the hole. You may have seen some home repair men (such as a father or uncle) use tightly wadded up newspaper to fill the hole. This does work but is not as reliable as the tape. The tape will stay firmly in place and assure that the compound adheres to the surface.

Step 4:

Use a putty knife to apply spackling compound, fast-drying patching compound, or drywall patch directly on the self-adhesive plastic mesh tape and onto the surrounding wall. Make sure to apply evenly and smooth it out as you go.

Step 5:

Wait for the compound to dry thoroughly. You may have to repeat step four one to two times depending on the amount of shrinkage you get from the spackling.

Step 6:

Allow the area to dry completely. Once dry, you will want to sand the area to a smooth finish. Sanding the area is important because it will remove any bubbles that may be in the compound as well as preparing the surface for a smooth finish. Then you are ready to prime and paint the repair spot. (Don't forget to match your paint correctly)

For Patching Larger Holes:

Step 1:

Use a stud finder to locate the stud that is closest to the hole. Once done, use a drywall knife or saw to cut a rectangle of drywall around the hole and including about half of the width of the stud.

Step 2:

The same as in step two for smaller holes, roughen up the paint several inches around the cut out with

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