Patch Your Drywall Correctly With These Tips

Imperfections in your drywall can cause a newly painted wall to be unsightly. Fortunately, fixing and preparing drywall isn’t difficult. Handyman Connection® of Matthews gives homeowners tips to help them patch their drywall correctly:

Use a Self-Priming Filler

Typical patches and putty require priming with a sealing-type primer before you apply the paint. Failing to do so causes the primer to show through the paint job. We suggest getting a self-priming filler instead to save time.

Use a Strong Light Source When Patching Drywall

Consider using a strong light source, like a raking light, when patching your drywall. A raking light can highlight defects in the drywall, so you’ll more easily find the areas that need the most work. A good light source can also make it easier to find drywall patches that require sanding after you’re done patching the wall as well.

Skim-Coat When Fixing Multiple Dents and Dings

If your drywall has a lot of dents and holes, it’s better to skim-coat the surface. A 6-inch putty knife is the best tool for the job. Mix a tablespoon of water into three cups of joint compound, apply it on the knife, skim-coat the area then scrape the coating off.  Leave just enough to fill in the dents and dings, and you’ll be done with the wall in one application.

Use Repair Spray for Small Cracks

Hairline and stress cracks are usually caused by movement near the window and door openings. You should use filler if the crack is open, but use a repair spray if it’s not. The spray will form a flexible membrane that will cover the crack. Repair spray is ideal for hairline cracks because the membrane can stretch and relax according to the movement of the house.

Use a Setting Compound for Large Holes

Use a setting compound for bigger holes. Make this compound by mixing some compound powder with water. Patch the large holes with this compound and then wait for a while. The compound will harden and create a surface that you can paint.

Handyman Connection of Matthews can help you with your repainting project or all of your other home maintenance or home remodeling needs. We are confident in the quality of our work, which is why we offer satisfaction guarantees. Call us at (704) 255-5626 or contact us here to learn more about our services and products.