DIY's Common Drywall Repair Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

rprcontractors
Oct 3
2 min read

Repairing drywall may look simple, but many DIY attempts end up leaving behind uneven seams, visible patches, or cracks that come back. If you’ve ever tried fixing a wall yourself and weren’t happy with the results, you’re not alone. Here are the most common mistakes people make when repairing drywall—and how you can avoid them.

1. Skipping Prep Work

One of the biggest mistakes is failing to properly prepare the area. If you don’t cut out damaged drywall, clean the surface, or sand before patching, the repair won’t bond correctly.

✅ Fix: Always start with a clean, smooth surface before applying compound or tape.

2. Using the Wrong Compound

Not all joint compounds are the same. Some DIYers try to fix everything with a single product, leading to cracking or shrinking.

✅ Fix: Use a strong setting-type compound for larger repairs, and lightweight finishing compound for the final coats.

3. Bad Taping Technique

If the tape isn’t embedded properly—or if too much compound is used underneath—it will bubble or show through.

✅ Fix: Apply a thin, even layer of compound, press in the tape, and smooth it out completely.

4. Applying Too Much at Once

Trying to “fix it in one coat” is a classic mistake. Heavy applications take forever to dry, often crack, and are hard to sand smooth.

✅ Fix: Use multiple thin coats, feathering each one wider than the last.

5. Poor Sanding

Over-sanding can expose tape, while under-sanding leaves ridges.

✅ Fix: Sand lightly with fine-grit paper. Shine a light across the wall to spot imperfections before painting.

6. Patching Big Holes with Just Mud

Filling a large hole with compound alone won’t last—it will eventually crack or fall out.

✅ Fix: For holes bigger than a few inches, cut a clean square, install backing, and patch with a piece of drywall before finishing with compound.

7. Skipping Primer

Painting directly over new compound almost guarantees “flashing” (shiny or dull spots).

✅ Fix: Always prime repaired areas before painting.

The Step-by-Step Approach

Here’s the quick guide for different repairs:

Small holes: Fill with spackle, sand, prime, and paint.
Cracks: Cut them open slightly, tape and mud, sand, prime, and paint.
Large holes: Cut clean edges, add backing, patch with drywall, tape, mud in layers, sand, prime, and paint.

Pro Tips for Seamless Repairs

Thin, even coats always win.
Feather edges wide for a natural look.
Never rush drying time.
Always finish with primer.

Final Thought

Drywall repair is a skill that takes practice. If you want a flawless finish without the hassle, that’s where we come in. At RPR Contractors, we’ve been repairing and painting homes in the Pottstown, Phoenixville, Royersford, Chester Springs, and surrounding areas since 1991. We’re known for showing up, doing it right, and leaving your walls looking brand new.

📞 Call/Text: 484-949-5258

🌐 Website: www.rprcontractors.net

📧 Email: RPRContractors@aol.com

Ready to Refresh Your Home? Contact RPR Contractors today for professional drywall repair, painting, and wallpaper removal.