How to Repair a Hole in Drywall

Holes in drywall are a common occurrence in any home — from doorknob impacts to furniture bumps to the aftermath of hanging shelves. Fortunately, patching drywall is one of the most accessible DIY repairs. With a basic patch kit and a bit of patience, you can achieve a near-invisible repair in a single afternoon.

Doorknob impacts are the most common cause — installing door stops can prevent future damage. Moving furniture, removing wall-mounted items, and accidental impacts during renovations all create holes of various sizes. In older Canadian homes, settling can cause cracks that require patching.

A drywall patch kit (CAD $12–$22) for holes up to 15 cm, or a piece of drywall, joint compound, and mesh tape for larger repairs. You'll also need a putty knife (10 cm and 20 cm), fine-grit sandpaper (120–150 grit), primer, and matching paint. A utility knife is helpful for cleaning the edges of the hole.

1. For small holes (under 5 cm): Apply a self-adhesive mesh patch over the hole. Spread a thin layer of joint compound over the patch with a putty knife, extending 5 cm beyond the edges. Let dry completely (4–6 hours).
2. Apply a second, thinner coat of compound, feathering the edges. Let dry overnight.
3. Sand smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.
4. For medium holes (5–15 cm): Use a drywall patch kit with a backer board. Insert the backer, secure with screws, attach the patch, and apply compound as above.
5. For larger holes: Cut a clean rectangle around the damage, cut a matching drywall piece, install with screws into studs or a backer board, tape the seams, and apply 2–3 coats of compound.
6. Prime the patched area before painting — bare compound absorbs paint differently than surrounding drywall.

If the hole is larger than 30 cm, if there's water damage causing the drywall to crumble, or if the damaged area is on a ceiling, a professional drywaller can ensure a seamless repair. If you notice mould behind the damaged drywall, stop work immediately and call a mould remediation specialist — this is especially important in humid Canadian basements.