Introduction

Living in Vancouver means your home can face a variety of wear and tear—whether from daily use, minor accidents, or changes in the weather. One common issue homeowners face is a hole in their drywall after a plumbing leak repair or a roofing repair. This can seem a bit daunting and to be fair, does require some finesse and practice to get perfect, but with the right tools, you have a great chance at a good result.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps of doing a small drywall patch, saving you the hassle of calling in a professional for minor repairs. With a few simple tools and a little patience, you can restore your walls and have them looking as good as new.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before getting started, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Drywall patching compound. We use a general purpose mud for this process which works well for small patches. This mud can be used for setting the joints and for final filling and finishing.
• Drywall paper tape or mesh. The paper tape cost less and results in a better finish
• Putty knife (3 to 6 inches wide)
• Drywall trowel (12″ wide)
• Jab saw (for cutting out the patch larger)
• Sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper
• Latex Primer
• Matching paint (Using an offcut from the drywall to match at a Benjamin Moore, Dulux, or Sherwin Williams Store)
• Paintbrush or roller
• Utility knife
• Dust mask and drop cloth

These items are readily available at any local hardware store on the North Shore or in Metro Vancouver. Make sure to lay down a drop cloth to protect your floors from dust and debris, and always wear a dust mask while sanding to avoid inhaling particles.

Step 1: Preparing the Area

The first step to a successful drywall patch is preparing the damaged area. This step ensures that the patch adheres properly and the finish is smooth.

• Begin by cleaning around the hole or crack. Use a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
• If the hole is small (less than half an inch), you can skip to applying a patch.
• For larger holes, use a jab saw to create a clean, rectangular cut around the damage. This will help ensure your patch fits evenly.
• If you’re working with a dent or deep gouge, gently scrape away any loose drywall around the edges.

By cleaning and prepping the area, you make it easier for the patch to bond with the wall, giving you a smoother and longer-lasting finish.

*Note at this stage, you’ll want to determine if you have matching paint for the wall or ceiling. If you do, make sure it is still in good condition by opening the can an inspecting it. If the paint smells bad or has become very thick, you may want to get a new can liter of paint. If you’re not sure if the paint will match, it’s always advisable to go with a new liter. Take a scrap of the drywall to a local paint store and have them match the sheen and colour.

Step 2: Applying the Patch

Now that your surface is prepped, it’s time to apply the drywall patch.

• For small holes (like nail holes or screw holes), you can use a self-adhesive drywall patch. Peel the backing off the patch and place it directly over the hole. Use your fingers to smooth the edges.
• For larger holes (around 1-2 inches to 3′ x3′ and bigger), cut a piece of drywall to fit the hole.
• Once you know your drywall patch fits in the hole, use small bits of 1/2″ plywood (yes it has to be plywood as wood will crack) to bridge the seams. See the image below to see what we mean:
• Secure the patch over the hole using a drywall screws through the plywood scraps

Make sure the patch lies flat against the wall with no  raised edges. This step is crucial to ensure your wall looks seamless once you’ve completed the patch.

Step 3: Applying Joint Compound

Next, apply a layer of joint compound over the seams using a putty knife.

• Scoop a generous amount of joint compound and spread it over the seams in a 4″ wide thin, even layer. Try to feather the edges by pressing harder at the outer edges and keeping the center smooth. Run the putty knife across the seam to prep for the installation of the paper tape.
• Embed the paper tape in the joint and smooth with a putty knife. Do this for every seam and try to avoid the tape overlapping
• Allow this first coat to dry completely (typically a few hours depending on the size of the patch and room humidity).

Once the first layer is dry, add a second layer if necessary, again feathering the edges to blend it into the surrounding wall.

Step 4: Sanding and Priming

Sanding is where your patience pays off—this step ensures a smooth surface for painting.

• After the joint compound is completely dry, lightly sand the area using a sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper.
• Wipe away any dust with a clean, dry cloth.
• Once the surface is smooth and dust-free, apply a coat of primer to the patched area. Primer helps the paint adhere better and ensures an even color match when you paint over it.
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Step 5: Painting and Finishing Touches

Finally, it’s time to bring your wall back to life with a fresh coat of paint.

• Choose a paint that matches the existing wall color. If you have leftover paint from the original job, that’s ideal. Otherwise, head to your local North Shore hardware store for a color match.
• Use a paintbrush or roller to apply an even coat over the patched area, making sure to blend the edges into the surrounding wall.
• Let the paint dry completely before applying a second coat if needed.
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Conclusion

Patching a small drywall hole is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money while keeping your home in top condition. By following these easy steps—prepping, patching, applying joint compound, sanding, and painting—you’ll have your walls looking flawless in no time.

So the next time you notice a ding or crack in your North Shore home, grab your tools and get to work! And if the job feels too big, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help.