Repairing Small Dents in Wallboard

There is a dent in you drywall. Don't replace the whole piece. Every once in awhile objects that come in contact with wall board which can cause dents or scratches. These indentations are easy to repair. Here's how to do it.

Step 1: Sand the Surface: First, sand the surface thoroughly (Fig. 1). This sanding roughens the surface and provides a good base for the joint compound you will use. Use coarse sandpaper and a good sandpaper block. For large areas to be repaired, use a power sander.

Step 2: Fill 'er Up: Fill the dent with a good grade of joint compound using a 3" or 4" spreader (Fig. 2). Spread the compound evenly, pressing it firmly into the dented area. For extremely large dents, allow the compound to dry overnight and then apply a second coat.

Step 3: Finishing Off: When the material is completely dry, sand the area and prime it for a coat of paint or other finish. Be sure to remove any high or low spots in the patched area with a fine sandpaper.

Courtesy of the National Retail Hardware Association