When we first enter the house, the first thing that catches our attention is the walls. Accidents, everyday usage, and mistakes during DIY projects can all cause damage to walls. Small nail holes to larger cracks in the wall can be seen in the wall. Unfortunately, they are distracting and unappealing. Here are the easy and best ways to fix a hole in the wall.
Fortunately, depending on the size of the holes, they are rather simple to patch. This does not require you to be an expert. All you need is a fixing tool, which you can find around the house or at a nearby hardware store.
Materials needed.
| Size of the hole | Tools needed |
| Small size hole(1/2 to 11/2 in.) | Spackling paste, small putty knife, sandpaper |
| Medium size hole(11/2 to 6 in.) | Wall patch, drywall compound, 4” drywall Knife, 220 grit sandpaper. |
| Large size Hole( > 6 in. ) | Saw blade/razor knife, wood, drywall screws, scrap piece of drywall, drywall compound. |
How to Fix a Small Hole in the Wall?
Most of the time, little holes are made by nails and screws. The hole size ranges from 1/2 to 11/2 inches. They are the most easily repaired of all the holes. Spackling paste, a small putty knife, and sandpaper are all you need. For this, you can use 3M, Red Devil, or any other kit of your choosing.
Steps..
- First, get some spackling paste from your local hardware shop. When shopping, look for a lightweight spackling paste that contains innovative primer technology. It will prevent a crack from forming at the seam of the hole after use.
- The second step is to use sandpaper to sand the area around the hole. So that there is no more loose debris around. Then, using the putty knife, apply a little amount of spackling paste over the hole. Take only a small amount of paste. It should be roughly the size of a pea.
- Smooth out the spackling paste with the putty knife. Try to make it smooth as much as possible. Attempt to level it with the wall surface. Extra tip: you can try to level the extra paste with a wet cloth.
There’s no need to be concerned if you make a mistake. You can redo it. Take a small amount of spackling paste and do the process again.
- The final step is to let the spackling paste dry completely. Allow it to dry 15-30 min or overnight. Then lightly sand it and apply a second small layer of paste. Then let it to totally dry.
You can then cover it up with paint. If you don’t think it’s necessary, then let it be as it is.
Fixing a Medium Size Hole?
A medium-sized hole ranges in size from 11/2 in. to less than 6 in. Repairing a medium-sized hole is more difficult than repairing a small hole. However, if you have the appropriate materials on hand, you can do it yourself. Because the hole is larger, it cannot be readily filled. You must first reinforce the wall before filling it.
You need a wall patch, dry wall compound, 4″ dry wall knife, and 220 grit sand paper.
Steps..
- Begin by cleaning the hole and removing any debris. Then sand the area around the hole to smooth it out.
- Apply a wall repair. Apply it to the wall by peeling the back side. Push it up against the wall. Make certain that it completely covers the opening.
- The dry wall compound should then be applied over the patch. Mix the dry wall compound in a dish. If you have a ready-made pond, you do not need a bowl and can apply it straight. At least three layers of compound should be applied. Allow the previous coat to completely dry before adding the next layer.
- Make sure the compound is spread evenly. Make the last layer thicker than the previous two layers to cover all of the surface.
- Allow at least 24 hours for it to dry. Sand it when it has dried so that there is no gap between the wall and the compound.
- Finally, paint over the compound to complete the job.
Fixing a large hole?
Repairing a huge hole is more difficult than the previous two. It is recommended to hire a professional. If you want to do it yourself, please follow the steps below.
Steps..
- If the hole is uneven, cut it into a square shape using a saw blade or razor knife.
- Using sand paper, smooth up the surface and remove any dirt that has formed.
- Screw drywall screws into two pieces of wood on both sides of the hole for support.
- Cut a drywall piece to the size of the hole. Check that the drywall piece is 1/2 inch shorter than the hole.
- Apply drywall compound around the hole’s edge and within the hole. Then, slide the cut drywall piece into the hole. Make sure it matches up with the wall by pressing it inwards.
- Allow it to dry. After that, apply a second and third layer. Allow the previous layer to dry before adding another. Using a putty knife, smooth out the layers.
- After the compound has dried, smooth it off with sandpaper. Then you may start painting.
You need to ask an expert to Fix a Hole if you still think you can not follow the above by yourself.
Photo Source:
Photo by Brett Sayles: https://www.pexels.com