So You've Hit A (Dry)Wall

George Alachadzhyan
Apr 7, 2024
3 min read

Are you staring at a hole in your wall, wondering how it got there? Did an impromptu indoor soccer game get a bit too real? Or perhaps you finally took down that old shelf only to discover it was hiding a multitude of sins. Whatever the case, it's time to roll up your sleeves and tackle some drywall repair. But fear not! This guide will walk you through where to buy, what kind of drywall to grab, and how to fix up your walls with some flair and a lot of fun.

Picking Your Drywall: A Shopping Adventure

First things first, let's talk shopping. Not all drywall is created equal, and your local home improvement store is like the library of Alexandria for drywall enthusiasts. You'll typically find two types:

Standard Drywall: Perfect for most interior walls, it's like the vanilla ice cream of drywall. Reliable, classic, and does the job.
Moisture-Resistant Drywall (Green Board): If you're fixing up a bathroom or kitchen, grab this one. It's like standard drywall's amphibious cousin, designed to resist moisture and avoid turning into a science experiment.

Tools Of The Trade: Becoming A Drywall Ninja

You don't need a black belt in carpentry, but you will need some tools. Here's your arsenal:

Joint Compound (Mud): This is your magic potion for fixing holes and cracks.
Putty Knife: For spreading the mud. It's like buttering toast, but more satisfying.
Sandpaper: To smooth things over like a diplomat.
Tape Measure & Utility Knife: For precision cuts. Think of it as performing drywall surgery.
Drywall Tape: To hold everything together. It's the duct tape of the drywall world.
A Patch Kit: For those "Oh no!" moments when the hole is bigger than you thought.

The Art Of Repair: Like Bob Ross, But With Drywall

Measure & Cut: Identify the wounded area. Cut a neat square around it because geometric shapes are easier to fix and infinitely more pleasing to the eye.
Patch & Secure: If you're dealing with a small hole, slap on a patch kit. Larger holes? Cut a new piece of drywall to fit, and secure it with screws. Feel the power!
Mud-Slinging: Apply joint compound over the patch or seam. Be generous, like you're icing a cake. Then smooth it out. Let it dry. This is a good time for a snack break.
Sand & Smooth: Once dry, sand it down to silky smoothness. Warning: You might find this oddly therapeutic.
Repeat: For best results, apply a second coat of mud. Yes, again. Patience is a virtue, grasshopper.

Painting: Unleashing Your Inner Picasso

Now for the grand finale: painting.

Primer is Your Friend: Always start with a primer designed for drywall. It ensures your paint goes on smoother than a jazz saxophone solo.
Paint Selection: Go for acrylic latex paint. It adheres well, cleans up easily, and is more forgiving than your high school gym teacher.
Tools: A roller for the vast expanses of wall and an angled brush for those sneaky edges and corners.

Pro Tips For Pro Results

Lighting Matters: Use a work light to check your repair work. Shadows and light will reveal any imperfections that need attention.
Patience Pays Off: Let the mud and paint dry completely between coats. Good things come to those who wait.
Keep It Clean: Wash your tools immediately after use. Dry mud and paint are like the guests who overstay their welcome.

Congratulations! You're now officially a wall whisperer. Drywall repair and painting might seem daunting, but with the right tools, a bit of knowledge, and a sprinkle of humor, you can tackle it head-on. So the next time you're faced with a drywall dilemma, remember this guide, grab your tools, and get to work. Your walls will thank you, and your home will look better for it. Happy fixing and painting!