Fixing Minor Drywall Cracks
Discover a quick and simple method to repair small drywall cracks in your home. These cracks often occur as the materials in a new home cure and settle. Using spackle and a sanding block, this video walks you through filling the cracks, letting them dry, sanding them smooth, and preparing them for paint to maintain a flawless appearance.
Why does drywall in a new home crack?
As the materials in a new home cure and dry out, shrinkage can happen and small cracks can appear in the drywall. It's part of a new home's "settling" process and is normal for new builds.
How long does this process take?
The longest part of the spackling process is waiting for the drywall spackle covering the crack to dry, which can take up to two hours. The rest of the process only takes about 5-10 minutes.
What you’ll need to fix drywall cracks:
- spackle knife
- drywall spackle
- standard sanding block
- drop cloth for the sanding process
- paint
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fix Minor Drywall Cracks:
- Apply the drywall spackle
Use the spackle knife to apply the drywall spackle on the crack and cover it completely. - Let the spackle dry
The drywall spackle will change to white as it dries. - Place a drop cloth down around the spackled area
Make sure you protect your floor from falling dust caused by the sanding process by placing a drop cloth down before starting. - Sand the spackle smooth
Use a standard sanding block to sand the dried spackle so that it's smooth and even with the rest of the wall. - Paint the spackled area
Blend the repaired section of wall in with the rest of your wall by painting it a matching color.