DIY - How to Patch a Hole in the Wall
It happens to us all from time to time. A quick slip, a slight miscalculation and there you are with an unsightly hole in your wall. Getting a professional in to patch a hole in the wall is expensive. It is much easier to do it yourself and depending on the size of the hole it is quite a simple operation.
When patching any hole it is always best to use a standard wallboard joint compound. Most of the more expensive, quick-drying compounds are difficult to sand back. A good putty knife is a must to have in the house for any wall repairs. Something around 4" that is relatively flexible will give you good control over spreading your plaster or compound
Very small holes can simply be plugged up and then plastered over. Something like a toothpick usually works. Just feather out the plaster as you apply it. A thin can lid can work well too. Use drywall taping mesh to tape it to the wall and plaster. The trick is feathering out the plaster to avoid a visible raised area.
Anything around golf ball size can be easily fixed using drywall taping mesh. Overlap the tape to add strength and be sure to extend well over the hole. Apply your compound and lightly sand when dry. Add another layer of compound and when dry sand again very very lightly. Prime patch with wall paint.
For larger holes you will need to do a bit of extra work. Measure a rectangular area around the hole and cut out using a sharp knife. A proper drywall knife is best for a professional looking job. It is a good idea too to use a t-square or similar when measuring your hole or you may have trouble matching it. Cut out a piece of drywall the same size to use as your patch.
The standard method for patching these large areas is to use strips of plywood. These need to be cut in rectangular pieces so they can overlap behind the wall itself. The pieces jutting into the hole itself will support the new piece of drywall. Position your piece of plywood in the hole and screw into the wall. Repeat this on the other side. Pop your new piece of drywall into the wall, then tape and use compound as for smaller holes. A wire mesh backing can also be used instead of the plywood method.
For repairing long cracks in walls use drywall taping. The important thing here is not to use long strips. If you do the tape will eventually peel off taking the paint and compound with it. Use small strips criss-crossed along the crack. This will give a neater finish and prevent any peeling or further cracking.