How to fix holes in plasterboard walls | DIY, by B&Q on YouTube. 3 min 44 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 44 s
- Time to do it
- 1 hour plus drying time
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Lay a dust sheet under the wall and wipe the area clean so filler will stick.
For a small dent, press filler into the dip with a filling knife and scrape it level with the wall.
For small holes, push filler into the hole, then draw the knife flat across to leave a smooth, slightly proud patch.
Let the filler dry fully, then sand it flush with fine paper and wipe off the dust.
For a larger hole, cut away any loose edges and remove crumbling plaster around the opening.
Stick a self-adhesive mesh patch over the hole, or screw a plasterboard offcut behind it as backing.
Spread filler over the patch in thin layers, feathering the edges out beyond the repair.
Once dry, sand smooth, apply a second thin coat if needed, then sand again before painting.
Tips and common mistakes
Build up filler in thin layers rather than one thick blob so it dries without cracking.
Sand gently with fine paper to avoid scuffing the surrounding paper face of the plasterboard.
Check for pipes or cables before cutting or drilling near a hole in the wall.
Questions
Do I need a mesh patch for a small hole?
No. Small nail holes and dents just need filler. Use a mesh patch once the hole is wider than a few centimetres.
How long does wall filler take to dry?
Most ready-mixed fillers dry in a few hours. Thick layers take longer, so thin coats speed things up.
Can I paint straight over the filler?
Yes, once it is fully dry and sanded smooth. A primer coat helps the paint finish evenly over the patch.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
