Hiring professionals like New Ceilings Drywall Repair is the best choice for filling cracks or repairing your walls. But in most cases, you can fill a small hole yourself, using a light spackling compound and a putty knife. If you are doing it for the first time, you should plan on taking an hour or so out of your day for the project. However, if you have some experience with drywall repair, you can complete the project quickly and easily.
Although the work can be difficult, it is easy and inexpensive to do. It costs about $20 for a small area, including drywall panels and paint. The cost will depend on the extent of the damage and the type of repairs you make. A drywall repair contractor can enhance the appearance of existing drywall, if necessary. There are smoother and heavier textures available, with each varying in price by about $1 to $3 per square foot.
Before you begin the task, find out where the damaged drywall is located. It may be caused by condensation from central air conditioning, a leaking roof, or flooding. However, even small holes should be patched with caution. Using a straightedge, you can make a mark parallel to the drywall studs and ceiling joists. Make sure to leave a six-inch gap between the lines. This will help you avoid damaging the surrounding wall structure.
Another way to fix drywall is to sand it down. While this may not look as effective as a professional job, you can still try it yourself. Make sure to apply the joint compound correctly. Once the joint compound dries, you can sand the area to smooth it out. When it is dry, you can apply another thin layer of joint compound. Finally, apply an elastic cover-up to prevent future cracks.
While drywall is a durable material, it is also brittle and susceptible to damage. It can become cracked or stained, as well as swollen and deteriorate with time. In addition to accidents, improper installation of drywall can also result in peeling tape or seams cracking. While most types of drywall repair are only cosmetic, major cracks and chips may indicate a larger issue.
If you are a handyperson and are able to use a screw gun and a mud mix, you can do the job yourself. You will need three or four coats of drywall compound, depending on the size of the area you’re trying to repair. The thickness is not as important as the number of coats, but be sure to mix up enough to cover the area completely. You may also need to use a flashlight to check for irregularities in the joints.
You can even attempt drywall repairs yourself if you are handy with a handsaw and joint compound. While this may seem like a daunting task, the process is actually much simpler than you might think. A simple doorknob, misplaced chair, or hockey game can damage drywall. With patience, a few can even repair drywall themselves. And by following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a better-looking home in no time.
