Accidents happen—whether it’s a door handle bumping into the wall or a misplaced nail, small holes in drywall are common. But don’t worry, patching these holes is a relatively simple DIY project that can make your walls look like new again! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to patch a small drywall hole, and for those in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, or anywhere in Mtero Vancouver our team at Microworks is always available if you’d prefer professional help.
Contents
Materials You’ll Need:
Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:
- Paper drywall tape (for damage less than 1.5″ in diameter)
- A drywall stick on patch (for damage up to 2″ in diameter)
- Joint compound (also known as drywall mud)
- 4″ putty knife
- 12″ putty knife
- Sanding sponge or sandpaper (medium grit and a fine grit)
- Primer and paint
- Paintbrush or roller with a roller cover (a small roller and a roller cover is fine!)
- Drop cloth (to protect your floor)
Step 1: Prepare the Hole
The first step in repairing a drywall hole is cleaning up the area. Ensure that the edges of the hole are smooth. If there are any loose or jagged bits of drywall, carefully cut them away with a utility knife. The smoother the area, the better the patch will adhere.
For holes smaller than ½ inch, you can skip the patch and use joint compound alone. However, for anything larger, it’s best to use a drywall patch or paper tape to reinforce the hole and prevent cracks in the future.
Step 2: Apply the Patch or Mesh Tape
If you’re using a drywall patch, peel off the backing and stick it directly over the hole. Ensure that it’s centered and press firmly to ensure good adhesion. For the tape, you’ll need to start mudding first to embed the tape
Step 3: Apply Joint Compound
Next, apply a layer of joint compound over the patch or mesh tape using your putty knife. Spread the compound smoothly, feathering the edges to blend seamlessly into the surrounding wall. Don’t worry if the first coat isn’t perfect—it’s normal to apply multiple layers for a smooth finish.
Allow the joint compound to dry completely, which usually takes about 24 hours depending on the product.
Step 4: Sand the Surface
Once the joint compound is dry, use a sanding sponge or sandpaper to smooth the surface. Be sure to sand the area evenly, feathering the edges into the wall to make the patch as invisible as possible.
Pro tip for Vancouver homeowners: If your home experiences a lot of moisture (common in the West Coast’s rainy climate), consider using mold-resistant drywall compound to prevent issues down the line.
Step 5: Apply a Second Coat (If Needed)
If the first coat didn’t completely cover the patch or if you notice any uneven spots, apply a second thin coat of joint compound. Follow the same process: smooth it out with a putty knife, let it dry, and sand it smooth again.
Step 6: Prime and Paint
Finally, you’re ready to paint! Before painting, apply a layer of primer to the patched area. This step is essential for helping the paint adhere and for preventing any differences in texture or color between the patch and the surrounding wall.
Once the primer is dry, paint the area to match your wall color. If you have leftover paint from the last time you painted the room, great! If not, bring a sample to a paint store to ensure a perfect match.
Need Help? Microworks Is Here for You!
If DIY drywall repairs seem overwhelming, or if you just don’t have the time, Microworks offers professional drywall repair services throughout Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Burnaby. Our experienced handymen can handle everything from small patch jobs to larger drywall projects, ensuring a flawless finish every time.
Why Choose Microworks for Drywall Repairs?
- Local Expertise: We understand the unique climate and building conditions in the Vancouver and North Shore areas, so we know which materials work best in these environments.
- Quick Service: We know you want your walls looking great ASAP. Our team is prompt and efficient, minimizing disruption to your home.
- Affordable: We offer competitive rates and transparent pricing for all drywall repairs, whether it’s a tiny patch or a larger fix.
- Guaranteed Workmanship: We stand by the quality of our work. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
Contact Us Today!
For professional drywall repair services in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Burnaby, contact Microworks today! Whether it’s patching up small holes or tackling larger drywall projects, our team is ready to help
