How To Repair Drywall Holes Caused by Wallpaper Removal

If you take out the paper from your walls, it’s likely that you will find little holes and imperfections revealed on its surfaces. It’s important that you repair these flaws specially if you’re intent on painting over the walls afresh, if you want your redecorating job to be as polished and excellent as possible.

    Prepare the needed materials. You will need the following: spackling compound (available at hardware stores and home improvement shops), a putty knife or spackle knife, medium-grit sandpaper, and a face mask.
    Prepare the surface. It’s very important that you thoroughly clean the area surrounding the hole before you apply the spackling compound to it. That’s because if there is any trace of dirt or grit on the area the compound may not adhere to the surface properly. Clean the area using a sponge or rag and a soap solution.
    Know how to choose the spackling compound. A spackling compound is specially-formulated to cover up holes and imperfections in surfaces such as walls. There are two general types of this compound: a ready-to-use version, and a powdered version. The ready-to-use version is a great option, as the spackle is already premixed in order to address most repair needs. The powdered version is good if you want to create your own mixture, especially if you need to have a denser compound for deeper holes.

    Another option for you is to buy spackling compounds that turn a different color once they are completely dry. This is very helpful because it is essential that the compound be dry before it is sanded or painted over. Remember that how long it will take for the compound to dry will depend on the depth of the hole to be covered; so if you’re hesitant about making guesses then this type of compound could be the best option for you.
    Apply the spackling compound. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully when applying the compound. Use the putty knife to place the compound in the hole. When applying the compound, you will make hand movements similar to when you are applying frosting to a cake. Make sure that you cover not just the hole but about ½ inch all around it. Try to level the compound with the surface of the wall. Also, make sure that you cover your nose and mouth with a face mask because spackling compound could cause respiratory problems.
    Know what to do if the hole is too large. In case the hole is more than 3 inches in diameter, the spackling compound will not be enough; you will have to fill the hole up with a mesh repair patch, also available at home improvement stores. Simply place the mesh in the hole, and then apply the spackling compound as usual.
    Let the compound dry. As mentioned, it is absolutely essential that you let the spackling compound dry before you do anything to it. Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how long you have to wait for it to dry completely.
    Sand the compound. Afterwards, sand the compound so that it will be as level with the surface of the wall as possible. Use medium-grit sandpaper for this purpose.
    Paint over the area. Once the hole has been covered up and the spot is smooth with the rest of the surface of the wall, it’s now ready to be painted over.


Repairing drywall holes isn’t that hard, but it’s best that you use the best materials for this activity, to ensure the best results. Good luck!