How to Patch a Hole in Drywall: A Simple Guide for Northern Colorado Homeowners

Even the best-built homes in Fort Collins, Windsor, or Greeley end up with a few dings and dents in their drywall. Whether it’s from moving furniture, kids’ playtime, or a doorknob bump, patching drywall is one of the most common home repairs. Fortunately, you can fix most holes yourself with a few simple tools and some patience.

Below, our local team at New Life Builders explains how to patch a drywall hole properly — and when to call in a professional for larger repairs.

Step-by-Step: How to Patch a Small Hole in Drywall

If your hole is about the size of a nail or screw head, you can handle it easily with a little spackle.

What You’ll Need

• Spackle or lightweight joint compound

• Putty knife

• Sandpaper (120–150 grit)

• Touch-up paint and brush

  
  

How to Do It

1. Clean the area – Wipe away dust or loose debris.

2. Apply spackle – Use your putty knife to fill the hole smoothly.

3. Let it dry – Most spackles dry within 30–60 minutes.

4. Sand it smooth – Lightly sand until the patch blends with the wall.

5. Touch up with paint – Paint over the repair for a seamless finish.

   
   

How to Patch a Medium Hole (1–6 Inches)

For something larger, like a doorknob hole or a bump from furniture, use a self-adhesive mesh patch.

You’ll Need

• Self-adhesive mesh patch

• Joint compound

• Putty knife (6-inch)

• Sandpaper

• Primer and paint

  
  

Steps

1. Stick the mesh patch over the hole, centered evenly.

2. Apply joint compound in thin, even layers.

3. Feather the edges outward to blend with the wall.

4. Let dry and sand lightly.

5. Texture with hopper gun

6. Prime and paint for a clean, professional look.

Pro Tip: In older homes, older drywall may crumble more easily — be gentle when sanding to avoid damaging the surrounding surface.

How to Patch a Large Hole in Drywall

Holes larger than 6 inches usually need a backing support and new piece of drywall.

You’ll Need

• Drywall saw

• Utility knife

• Drywall piece (cut to fit)

• Backing strips (wood or furring strips)

• Screws and drill

• Joint tape and compound

• Sandpaper, primer, and paint

  
  

Steps

1. Cut out a clean square around the damaged area.

2. Attach backing strips inside the hole with screws.

3. Insert the new drywall patch and screw it to the backing.

4. Tape and mud the seams, feathering edges for a smooth finish.

5. Texture with hopper gun

6. Sand and paint once the joint compound dries.

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing the drying process – Always let the compound dry completely before sanding or painting.

• Using too much mud – Thin layers are easier to blend and reduce sanding later.

• Skipping primer – Especially in homes in Loveland or Severance, where humidity can vary, primer helps the repair hold up over time.

  
  

When to Call a Local Contractor

If your drywall damage involves water stains, cracks near windows, or structural shifting, it’s time to call a professional. These can signal deeper issues with framing or insulation — not just surface damage.

New Life Builders helps homeowners across Fort Collins, Greeley, Wellington, Pierce, and Windsor with reliable drywall repair and full home improvement services.

Get Expert Drywall Repairs in Northern Colorado

If you’re in Greeley, Windsor, or anywhere in Northern Colorado and need expert help with drywall repairs or home improvement projects, contact New Life Builders today for a free consultation. We’ll get your walls looking like new again.