Fixing Small Holes in Drywall

[Alpha]

Hi! What is the best method for repairing minor dents and small holes in 1/2-inch standard drywall? Should spackle or joint compound be used, and is sanding and priming necessary before painting? Any tips for making the repair blend in seamlessly? Thanks in advance!

[Gardenboy]

I'm no expert, but it is fairly simple! For minor dents and small holes, spackle is usually the best option since it dries quickly and sands easily. If the hole is a bit bigger, joint compound might be better because it’s stronger and blends more smoothly. Sanding is definitely necessary to make sure the patch isn’t noticeable, just go easy so you don’t create a dip. And yes, priming before painting helps, especially with spackle, since it can absorb paint differently and stand out if not sealed properly. A good trick is to run your hand over the area after sanding to feel for any uneven spots. That way, you can make sure it blends in seamlessly. Hope that helps!

[Alpha]

Thanks, that’s really helpful! Do you think a second coat of spackle or joint compound helps with blending, or is one layer usually enough?

[Gardenboy]

Glad you found it helpful! A second coat can definitely make a difference, especially for slightly larger holes or if the first layer shrinks a bit as it dries. With spackle, one coat is often enough for small dents, but for a truly seamless blend, applying a thin second coat after sanding can help smooth everything out. With joint compound, a second (or even third) coat is more common since it’s designed to be built up in layers. Just make sure to feather out the edges with each coat so it gradually blends into the surrounding wall. Light sanding between coats also helps keep the surface even. Hope that helps!

[Alpha]

That’s really useful to know! And also, how do I make sure the texture is even? Any tips on making the repair blend in with the existing texture as much as possible?

[Gardenboy]

If your wall is smooth, a final light sanding after the last coat of spackle or joint compound should do the trick. For textured walls, you have a few options:

• Orange Peel or Light Texture: Use a sponge or a stippling brush to dab the area lightly while the compound is still wet, mimicking the surrounding texture.
• Knockdown Texture: Apply a slightly thicker layer of joint compound, then wait a few minutes before gently flattening it with a drywall knife or trowel.
• Heavier Textures: A crumpled-up plastic bag, rag, or specialty texture roller can help replicate the look.

For best results, compare the repaired area to the surrounding wall while it’s still drying and adjust as needed. If it doesn’t match perfectly after drying, a very thin layer of compound or an additional texture touch-up can help refine the look. Once you’re satisfied, prime and paint over the repair, feathering the paint out to blend with the existing wall.

[Alpha]

Great tips! What about hairline cracks around the repair? If any appear after it dries, should another thin layer of joint compound be applied, or is there a better way to prevent them from showing through the paint?

[Gardenboy]

Hairline cracks can sometimes appear as the compound dries, especially if there’s movement in the wall. A thin second coat of joint compound can help, but make sure to feather it out well to blend smoothly. Also, using a flexible, high-quality primer before painting can help seal the repair and minimize cracking. If the cracks keep appearing, applying a thin layer of elastomeric patching compound instead of regular joint compound might work better since it has more flexibility.

[Alpha]

Got it, that explains a lot! Thanks for all the help!