Drywall Repair Methods for Dents, Nail Pops, Holes and Corners

Small dings, dents and popped nails

For small dings and dents, scrape away loose debris, apply lightweight spackle over the hole and let it dry. If the hole isn't filled, add more spackle, then sand smooth.

For popped nail heads, drive a drywall screw about 1-1/2 inches above or below the nail to hold the drywall. Then drive in the popped nail, spackle and sand.

Doorknob holes

A small patch kit fixes holes from a doorknob. Stick it over the hole, then use a drywall knife to cover it with lightweight joint compound in a crisscross pattern. Feather the edges so it blends with the wall, let it dry, and add another coat if necessary.

The California patch

The California patch suits holes six inches and smaller. Cut a new piece of drywall about two inches bigger than the hole. Score the back about an inch from each side and snap off the loose gypsum, leaving the paper backing. Hold it over the hole and mark around the gypsum, then cut out that area with a drywall saw. Apply joint compound to the back of the paper, press it into place and cover with a couple of coats of joint compound.

Larger holes

For larger holes, cut a piece of drywall a little bigger than the hole, hold it over the hole, trace it and cut along the lines. Hold small furring strips inside the hole on two sides and secure them with screws. Set the patch in place, secure it to the furring strips, and apply joint tape and compound.

Damaged corners

For a dinged corner, cut the damaged corner bead with a hacksaw and use a knife to cut the drywall. Remove the damaged piece and cut a new corner bead to fit. Secure it, then apply joint compound to the corner.

Finishing and texture

Finish all repairs with a light sanding, primer and paint. On a textured wall, lightly sand the repair to blend with the surface. Mix 4 parts joint compound to 1 part water, dip a stiff brush and flick it onto the wall in a forward motion. Texture spray is another option: shake the can, adjust the nozzle and spray in a circular motion about 6-18 inches from the wall. For a knockdown finish, lightly flatten the texture with a drywall knife.