How to Fix Drywall Cracks Like a Pro (Even If You're Not a DIY Expert)

Cracks in drywall are a common issue in many homes. These cracks can happen because of house settling, moisture changes, or even temperature swings. While they may look like a big problem, most drywall cracks are simple to fix and don’t always require professional help. With a little time, patience, and the right tools, you can get your walls looking smooth and new again.

If you’ve never done home repairs before, the idea of fixing drywall cracks might seem a bit scary. But don’t worry—this guide is written for beginners. You don’t need special skills or expensive tools to get good results. This step-by-step approach will walk you through how to repair drywall cracks like a pro, even if you’ve never tried it before.

Why Do Drywall Cracks Happen?

Understanding what causes drywall cracks can help prevent them from happening again. In most cases, cracks are caused by natural settling of the house. As a home ages, the structure slowly shifts. These small movements can cause cracks around doors, windows, or ceilings.

Another reason for drywall cracks is moisture. If your home has high humidity or water leaks, drywall can expand and contract, leading to visible damage. Cracks can also appear after home renovations or changes in temperature. Knowing the cause will help you fix the crack properly and keep it from coming back.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting your drywall repair project, gather the following items:

• Putty knife (4-inch or 6-inch)
• Utility knife
• Sandpaper (120- to 220-grit)
• Drywall joint compound (also called mud)
• Drywall tape (paper or mesh)
• Primer and paint
• Damp sponge or cloth
• Step ladder (if working near the ceiling)

These tools are available at most hardware stores and are usually affordable. Having the right materials will make the job easier and help you achieve a smooth finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Start by cleaning the area around the crack. Use a damp sponge or cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or loose paint. Then, use a utility knife to widen the crack slightly. This might seem strange, but making a small “V” shape in the crack helps the joint compound stick better.

Once the crack is prepped, lightly sand around it to rough up the surface. This will help the new compound blend in with the wall. Wipe away any dust with a clean cloth before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Apply Drywall Tape

If the crack is longer than a few inches, apply drywall tape over it. This tape helps prevent the crack from coming back later. For small cracks, you may be able to skip the tape and just use compound.

If using mesh tape, press it directly over the crack. For paper tape, apply a thin layer of joint compound first, then press the tape into the compound. Smooth it out using a putty knife to make sure there are no air bubbles.

Step 3: Add Joint Compound

Now it’s time to apply the first layer of joint compound. Use your putty knife to spread a thin layer over the tape and crack. Try to feather the edges so it blends into the wall. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—this is just the first coat.

Let it dry completely, which usually takes about 24 hours. After it’s dry, lightly sand the surface to smooth out any bumps or ridges. Wipe off the dust, then add a second layer of compound. Repeat this process until the area is smooth and level with the wall. Most repairs need 2 to 3 coats.

Step 4: Sand and Smooth

Once the final coat is dry, sand the area one last time. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently smooth the surface. The goal is to make the patched area blend seamlessly with the rest of the wall.

Be careful not to sand too much, or you could damage the repair. After sanding, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth to remove any leftover dust.

Step 5: Prime and Paint

The final step is to prime and paint the repaired spot. Use a primer first to seal the joint compound. This helps the paint stick better and keeps the patch from looking different than the rest of the wall.

After the primer dries, paint the area to match the surrounding wall. If you don’t have the exact paint color, take a sample to the store for color matching. Apply at least two coats of paint for best results.

Tips for First-Time Drywall Repair

• Take your time. Rushing the job can lead to uneven results.
• Use light pressure with your putty knife to avoid pushing too much compound out.
• Don’t skip sanding. A smooth finish depends on proper sanding between layers.
• Practice on a scrap piece of drywall if you’re nervous about starting on your wall.

With practice, you’ll get better at applying the compound evenly and feathering the edges for a professional look.

When to Call a Pro

While most drywall cracks are easy to repair, some might need professional help. If you notice large, diagonal cracks, bulging walls, or signs of water damage, it’s best to call a contractor. These could be signs of deeper problems like structural issues or plumbing leaks.

Also, if you’ve tried fixing a crack and it keeps coming back, a pro can figure out the root cause and provide a lasting solution.

Keep Your Walls Looking New

Now that you know how to fix drywall cracks, you can tackle small repairs with confidence. Keeping your walls in good shape improves your home's appearance and prevents minor issues from getting worse. Regular home maintenance doesn’t have to be difficult—and fixing drywall is one of the easiest ways to make your space look fresh.

Whether you're patching a small crack in the living room or repairing a seam in the hallway, these simple steps can help you do the job right. No need to hire someone or stress over it—with a little effort and the right materials, anyone can fix drywall cracks like a pro.