The Most Common Drywall Repairs and How to Fix Them

Drywall is one of the most common building materials used in homes today. While it’s durable and provides a smooth, clean finish for interior walls, it isn’t indestructible. Over time, everyday wear and tear, accidental impacts, or even structural shifts can cause damage that needs to be repaired.

Luckily, most drywall issues are fixable with the right tools and techniques. Whether you’re dealing with small dents, cracks, nail pops, or larger holes, this guide will walk you through the most common drywall problems and how to fix them—or when it might be best to call in a professional.

1. Small Dents and Dings

What’s Happening?

Small dents and dings are some of the most frequent drywall issues, often caused by minor accidents in high-traffic areas. These may not seem like a big deal at first, but if left unrepaired, they can make walls look worn and neglected over time. Fortunately, fixing them is quick and easy.

Causes:

• Moving furniture too close to the wall
• Door handles hitting the drywall
• Everyday wear and tear

How to Fix It:

1. Clean the Area – Wipe off dust and debris with a damp cloth.
2. Apply Spackle – Use a putty knife to spread a thin layer of lightweight spackle over the dent.
3. Smooth It Out – Allow it to dry, then lightly sand the area until it’s flush with the wall.
4. Prime and Paint – Apply a coat of primer before repainting to ensure a seamless finish.

2. Nail Pops

What’s Happening?

Nail pops are small circular bumps that appear on walls or ceilings where drywall nails or screws start to loosen over time. They’re often caused by the natural expansion and contraction of a home’s wooden framing. While they may not indicate serious structural damage, they can create an uneven surface that affects the look of your walls.

Causes:

• Wood framing expansion and contraction
• Drywall movement over time

How to Fix It:

1. Remove the Old Nail – Carefully pry the popped nail out of the drywall.
2. Secure with Screws – Drive a drywall screw slightly below the surface, about an inch above or below the original nail hole.
3. Fill the Hole – Use spackle to cover the holes, let it dry, then sand smooth.
4. Paint Over the Repair – Blend in the patch with a matching wall color.

3. Hairline Cracks

What’s Happening?

Drywall cracks often appear along door frames, windows, or ceilings, and they can be a sign of normal house settling or changes in temperature and humidity. While small cracks can be repaired easily, larger or recurring cracks may indicate deeper structural issues.

Causes:

• House settling
• Temperature and humidity changes

How to Fix It:

1. Widen the Crack Slightly – Use a utility knife to create a V-shaped groove along the crack.
2. Apply Joint Compound – Fill the groove with joint compound using a putty knife.
3. Reinforce with Mesh Tape – Cover the crack with self-adhesive drywall tape for extra strength.
4. Apply Additional Compound – Smooth another layer of joint compound over the tape, let it dry, and sand it smooth.
5. Prime and Paint – Finish by repainting to match the surrounding area.

4. Medium Holes (1-4 Inches Wide)

What’s Happening?

Whether caused by an accidental impact, a doorknob hitting the wall, or the removal of old fixtures, medium-sized drywall holes can leave unsightly gaps in your walls. These holes are too big for simple spackling but can still be repaired relatively easily with a patch.

Causes:

• Accidental impacts (e.g., doorknobs, toys, furniture)
• Minor plumbing or electrical repairs requiring wall access

How to Fix It:

1. Cut Out a Clean Area – Use a utility knife to create a square or rectangular cut around the damaged section.
2. Insert a Drywall Patch – If available, use a pre-cut patch or a piece of drywall cut to size.
3. Secure with Mesh Tape – Place self-adhesive mesh tape over the seams.
4. Apply Joint Compound – Spread joint compound over the patch, feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding wall.
5. Sand, Prime, and Paint – Once dry, sand it smooth and paint over the repair.

5. Large Holes (More Than 4 Inches Wide)

What’s Happening?

Large drywall holes require more extensive repairs since they compromise the structural integrity of the wall. If not properly fixed, they can weaken the surrounding drywall and cause further damage over time.

Causes:

• Significant impact damage
• Water leaks leading to wall deterioration

How to Fix It:

1. Cut Out the Damaged Area – Use a drywall saw to remove the affected section in a clean, square shape.
2. Install a Backer Board – Place a thin piece of plywood or scrap drywall behind the hole and secure it with drywall screws.
3. Attach a New Drywall Panel – Cut a new drywall piece to fit the hole and screw it into place.
4. Tape and Apply Joint Compound – Cover the seams with drywall tape and apply multiple layers of joint compound, sanding in between coats.
5. Finish with Primer and Paint – Blend the repair into the existing wall with primer and paint.

When to Call a Professional

While minor drywall repairs can often be handled as a DIY project, some situations require expert help. Consider hiring a professional if:

• The damage covers a large area
• You’re dealing with structural issues or recurring cracks
• There is mold or water damage that may indicate an underlying issue
• You need a perfectly blended texture match

At Just Like New Drywall Repair, we specialize in seamless drywall repairs that make your walls look brand new. If you need expert drywall repair in Orange County, contact us today for a free quote!

Learn more about Drywall Repair Services.

Keeping your drywall in top shape is key to maintaining your home’s appearance and value. Whether it’s a small dent or a major hole, knowing the right repair techniques can make all the difference. For homeowners looking for fast, professional service, Just Like New Drywall Repair is here to help.

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