🛠️ DIY Drywall Repair: A Charleston Homeowner’s Guide from Lawless Home Improvement

Drywall damage happens to the best of us—whether it’s a doorknob dent, a rogue elbow, or just the wear and tear. The good news? You don’t always need a pro to fix it. At Lawless Home Improvement, we believe in empowering homeowners with the know-how to handle small repairs confidently and safely.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to tackling common drywall issues.

🔧 Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before you grab the spackle, take a moment to size up the situation.

• Small holes (nail pops, screw holes): Quick patch job

• Medium holes (doorknob dents, minor accidents): Requires a mesh patch

• Large holes (over 6 inches): May need a drywall panel replacement

If it’s near plumbing or electrical, call a pro—better safe than sorry.

🧰 Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You don’t need a full contractor’s kit—just the basics:

• Putty knife

• Sanding sponge or sandpaper

• Drywall compound (aka joint compound or “mud”)

• Mesh patch (for medium holes)

• Primer and paint to match your wall

Optional: A drywall saw and scrap panel for larger repairs.

🪛 Step 3: Patch It Up

Here’s how to handle each type of repair:

For small holes:

1. Apply a dab of compound with your putty knife

2. Smooth it out and let it dry

3. Sand lightly and repeat if needed

4. Prime and paint

For medium holes:

1. Stick a mesh patch over the hole

2. Cover with compound, feathering the edges

3. Let dry, sand smooth, and apply a second coat

4. Prime and paint

For large holes:

1. Cut a clean square around the damage

2. Fit a new drywall piece into the opening

3. Secure with drywall screws and tape the seams

4. Apply compound in layers, sanding between coats

5. Prime and paint

🎨 Step 4: Blend It Beautifully

Charleston homes have character—and that means matching paint matters.

• Use leftover paint if you have it

• If not, take a chip to your local hardware store for a color match

• Feather the edges to help avoid a “patchy” look

• For best results, paint the entire wall to ensure the paint matches. Even using the same paint or color match, does not ensure a perfect blend.

🛠️ When to Call Lawless Home Improvement of Charleston

DIY is great—but some jobs are better left to the pros.

• Cracks that keep coming back

• Water damage or mold

• Major wall repairs or texture matching

At Lawless Home Improvement, we’ve been helping Charleston families keep their homes beautiful and functional for over 25 years. Whether you need a quick fix or a full renovation, we’re here with expert craftsmanship and a neighborly touch.

💬 Let’s Talk Walls

Got a tricky repair or just want a second opinion? Reach out to Lawless Home Improvement of Charleston today. We’re always happy to help—whether it’s with tools, tips, or hands-on support.

📞 Call/text us at 843-489-7057 or visit www.lawlesshomeimprovement.com to request an estimate. Your walls will thank you