Cost and Techniques: How to Fix Damaged Drywall

Does this sound familiar?

You removed wallpaper and the walls are destroyed. You took paneling down and parts of the wall came off with it. You hung pictures with tape, and the tape and adhesive pulled the paint off. I have been there and done that.

Whether you are dealing with nail pops, cracks or whole walls that need skim coating, damaged drywall is a real headache. If you are getting ready for paint or wallpaper, a smooth wall is what gives you a professional looking result. Here are the tools, the techniques, the approximate costs, and DIY versus hiring a professional.

Common questions about drywall repair

How do you repair damaged drywall? Usually by patching holes or cracks with joint compound, sanding the surface smooth and priming it for paint or wallpaper.

What is the best primer for problem drywall? We think GARDZ Problem Surface Sealer is best for sealing damaged or compromised drywall, especially peeling drywall paper or peeled paint.

How much does it cost to skim coat walls? It varies with the scope, but typically $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot.

Is dustless sanding worth it for drywall repairs? Absolutely. A Festool sander paired with a HEPA vacuum cuts the dust dramatically, which makes cleanup easier and healthier.

Should I do it myself or hire a professional? It depends on the damage. Small nail pops and cracks are manageable for most people. Larger repairs and skim coating are better left to a professional for a smooth finish.

Tools and products for drywall repairs

Dustless sanders. A Festool sander on a HEPA vacuum keeps drywall dust down, which keeps your space clean and safe. It especially helps in homes with allergies or breathing sensitivities.

GARDZ Problem Surface Sealer. This primer seals compromised drywall. It works on surfaces with peeling paint, wallpaper adhesive residue or water stains, locks the surface down and makes a durable base for skim coating or painting.

Other tools you will want:

• Taping knives and mud pans for applying joint compound
• Corner tools for sharp edges
• Sandpaper or sanding sponges for detailed smoothing

Step 1: Assess and prep the area

Start by getting the surface ready.

• Remove loose or flaking paint and clean the surface with a damp cloth.
• For nail pops, drive the nail deeper and cover it with joint compound.
• For cracks, widen them slightly with a utility knife so the joint compound can bond.

Step 2: Apply joint compound

If the wall is badly torn up, like after paneling comes off, prime it first. Otherwise, use a taping knife to apply joint compound over small cracks, nail holes and dents. For extensive damage, skim coat the whole wall with a thin, even layer of joint compound.

Step 3: Sand smooth with a dustless sander

Once the joint compound is dry, smooth it with a Festool sander connected to a HEPA vacuum. Dustless sanding is cleaner and leaves a smoother finish than traditional sanding.

Step 4: Prime the repairs

Apply GARDZ Problem Surface Sealer to stabilize and seal the repaired areas. It prevents bubbling and peeling and gives a solid base for the topcoat.

Step 5: Prime again if you skim coated

If you skim coated the whole wall, prime it again after sanding so the finish sheen is uniform, with no shiny spots or dull areas.

Step 6: Paint or wallpaper

Once primed, the walls are ready for paint or wallpaper.

DIY vs. hiring a professional

Here is how the two compare.

Cost per square foot to fix drywall

For complete drywall repair and preparation, here is how the cost breaks down.

Best practices for drywall repair

Three habits make the repair last.

• Prime before and after skim coating. GARDZ gives long term durability and prevents bubbling and peeling.
• Use dustless sanding tools. Less dust keeps the home clean and makes the work more efficient.
• Do not skip prep. Proper cleaning and surface preparation are what make the finish seamless.

Drywall repair in Huntley and nearby

We do drywall repair and preparation for painting or wallpaper in Huntley, Algonquin, Pingree Grove and other Chicago suburbs.