How to Repair Cracks and Holes in Drywall

Kids, pets and doors can all leave tell-tale damage to your drywall. In a few short steps, youll learn how to repair drywall damage to get your walls back to normal.

A drywall knife is a tool for spreading joint compound. A putty knife is adequate for repairing small holes left by picture hooks, but larger jobs will require a drywall knife. There are many different sizes and types of drywall knives available. Typically, the larger the area youre repairing, the larger the knife youll need. Some knives are more flexible with a thin edge to help lay joint tape in joint compound along seams.

Small holes in drywall can be easily repaired. These types of holes include nail or screw holes (like those left from picture hooks), paper tears and indentations made by furniture and other hard objects.