How to Repair a Drywall Crack?

If you notice a crack in your drywall, don't panic. Your house won't fall apart. While small drywall cracks are common, usually developing as a result of the house settling, and they're simple to repair. Rather than spending money on a professional, this guide will teach you how to easily repair a crack on drywall.

Drywall Crack Repair

Tools required

Before you get started, make sure you have the proper tools for the job.
If you decide to use different tools you have lying around the house you won't get very far into the work before you have to stop and purchase the correct tools anyway.

Therefore, here's what you'll require:
  • 6-inch taping knife
  • Utility knife
  • Mud pan (makes it easier to apply drywall mixture to the taping knife.)
  • Drywall compound
  • Paper drywall tape
  • Fine grit sandpaper
Step 1

The first thing you require to do is clean out the crack. Use your utility knife and remove any rough and uneven edges and scrape off any loose material from inside the crack.

Step 2

Place some of the drywall compound into the mud container and take a small amount on your taping knife. Apply a light layer of compound covering the crack.

Step 3

Cut a portion of tape long enough to mask the crack. In case the drywall crack is an unusual shape, you can cut little sections of tape to follow the shape. Next, set the tape directly over the drywall compound. You should place the tape immediately after you apply the compound. In case you have a large or unusual shaped crack, it may be a good approach to cut the tape before you apply the compound.

Step 4

Using the taping knife, push the drywall tape into the compound. Be sure there aren't any bubbles. In case there's air below the drywall tape, it will remain there permanently, forming a small bump on your wall. Apply an extra coat of compound over the top of the tape and then wait for it to dry. (It may take several hours to dry.)

Step 5

Apply another layer of compound over the top. Blend the edges of the compound with the rest of the drywall. Don't apply a thick layer of the compound or it will bump out from the wall.

Step 6

When the second coat of compound is dry, apply an additional coat, and wait for it to dry.

Step 7

Sand the drywall compound by using your fine-grit sandpaper until it is smooth, making sure not to sand down to the drywall tape. When you finished sanding, you can prime and then paint the patch with the same color matching the rest of your wall. The most difficult part of this project is waiting for all these compound coats to dry. Everything else can be done easily and quickly.

Drywall Compound