Walls and surfaces · fix it
Hole in wall? Here's what to do first
Cut it square, back it, and use thin coats. The finish work is what separates an invisible patch from an obvious one.
DIY with caution
Doable for a careful homeowner — read the safety note first and stop if anything doesn't match what you see.
Intermediate About 90 min
Stop and get help if the wall is wet, cracking along a seam, or the opening exposes wiring or plumbing.
Video: Mr. Build It (YouTube)
What to do, in order
- Step 1: Cut the damage back to a clean square with a drywall saw.
- Step 2: Slide a wood or metal backer behind the opening and screw it to the surrounding board.
- Step 3: Screw a cut patch to the backer, leaving a small even gap.
- Step 4: Tape the seams, then apply three thin coats of compound, feathering wider each time.
- Step 5: Sand lightly, prime the patch, and paint.
Not quite your problem? Describe what's happening or browse all common problems.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Enter your ZIP code to get matched with trusted local help, anywhere in the U.S.
This page also helps with
- drywall damage
- patch a wall
- doorknob hole