The right approach depends on the size of the hole:
- Small holes (nails, screws, pins): Dab a small amount of spackle directly into the hole with a putty knife, scrape off the surface excess, let it dry, sand light with 220-grit sandpaper, and paint.
- Medium holes (doorknobs, small impact marks, 1 to 6 inches): Use a self-adhesive metal mesh patch and joint compound.
- Large holes (over 6 inches): Cut out the damaged drywall into a clean rectangle, install wood backing strips behind the opening, screw in a replacement drywall piece, tape the seams, and apply joint compound.
For the most common DIY wall repairs, a medium-sized hole is standard. Here is the step-by-step method using a mesh patch:
How to Patch a Medium-Sized Hole
1.Prep the wall:2-3 min.
Trim away any loose drywall paper or jagged debris around the edges of the hole using a utility knife. Wipe away dust so the patch adhesive sticks firmly.
2.Apply the self-adhesive mesh patch:1 min.
Center a self-adhesive aluminum mesh patch directly over the hole. Press it firmly against the drywall until flat and secure.
3.Apply the first coat of joint compound:5-10 min.
Scoop joint compound or spackle onto a 6-inch putty knife. Spread a layer over the mesh, extending 2 to 3 inches beyond the patch edges. Angle the knife slightly and “feather” (taper) the edges outward so it blends into the surrounding wall.
4.Let dry and apply a second coat:2 to 4 hours drying time.
Allow the joint compound to dry completely. Apply a second thin coat, extending the feathered edges slightly further outward (3 to 4 inches past the mesh) to hide the raised center.
5.Sand smooth:5 min.
Once fully dry, sand the area gently using 220-grit sandpaper or a damp sanding sponge until the edges transition seamlessly into the flat wall.
6.Prime and paint:10 min.
Apply a coat of primer over the patch before painting. Skipping primer causes the patched area to absorb paint differently than the rest of the wall, creating a noticeable dull spot known as “flashing.” Once primed, paint to match.
Pro Tip: If your wall has texture (such as orange peel or knockdown), spray aerosol wall texture over the primed patch before applying your final coat of paint.
