How to Patch a Hole in the Wall

Whether the hole in the wall is a large break or a hole made by a nail, there is no reason to panic. The process is quick and easy. All you need is a knife and enough spackling compound to cover the hole. Depending on the size of the hole here is what you do.

Small Hole

1. Fill in the Hole

   Spread compound into the hole with the spackling knife until the hole is filled, and smooth with the knife.

2. Let Dry

   The amount of time it takes to dry depends on how much compound used. For a small hole allow a few hours.

3. Sand

   When the compound is dry, sand by hand until the hole is smooth, and flush with the wall.

4. Paint

   Paint over with the same paint used for the wall.

Medium Hole

(About one inch in diameter)

1. Remove Loose Plaster.

   Use a knife to clean the hole out and smooth around the edges.

2. Stuff the Hole with Newspaper or Patching Plaster

   This in not necessary if the hole is shallow, but putting newspaper in the hole will conserve the compound you will need to use. Plaster will also make the repair stronger.

3. Fill the Hole

   Whatever space is remaining in the hole should be filled with spackling compound. Compound should be spread on the out side as well to cover the edges of the hole.

4. Let Dry

   Leave it most of the day or over-night.

5. Sand

   Sand by hand till the hole is flush with the wall.

6. Paint

   Paint the area with the same paint as used for the wall.

Large Hole

1. Follow step one through three "medium hole" above.

2. Apply Joint Tape

   Get a strip of mesh joint tape large enough to cover the hole, and press it evenly and firmly on top of the hole. Use a joint knife to get it smooth with the surface of the wall.

3. Cover with Compound

   Add a thin coat of spackling compound to hide the tape. You may use a piece of tape on top to add support, but it is probably not necessary. If you do use more tape cover it with more compound, and resand.

4. Let Dry

   Let the compound dry overnight.

5. Sand

   Sand the repair by hand making sure not to put too much pressure on the spot and not sand down far enough to expose the tape. If you do expose the tape, apply more compound and sand again after it dries.

6. Paint

   If the hole is large and conspicuously located, it might be a good idea to paint the whole wall again. Otherwise, paint the area with the same color paint as the wall.