When you own a home, one common issue you might face is drywall repair. The cost can vary widely, from as little as $10 to over $1,600 depending on the problem. Some contractors charge between $50 and $75 per square foot for drywall repair, which makes the drywall repair cost per square foot an important factor to consider when budgeting for your project.
Whether it’s fixing water damage or patching up holes from hanging pictures, you might wonder, “How much will drywall repair cost?” In this article, we’ll explore different types of drywall repairs and the factors that can influence the cost.
Factors Influencing Drywall Repair Costs
Just like with any home repair, several factors can impact the cost of fixing drywall, such as:
- Size of the area needing repair
- Type of damage
- Water damage issues
- Location of the property
- Presence of pests, lead paint, or asbestos
For an estimate on your drywall repair, contact ROA Drywall today.
Materials for Drywall Repair
You can schedule a visit with ROA Drywall. You have the option to buy the materials yourself. Alternatively, you can pay extra for our professionals to provide them.
Here’s a rough estimate of the cost for the materials you might need:
- Drywall patch: $7 to $10 per patch
- Drywall: Ranges from $13 to $24 for each sheet measuring 8-by-12 feet.
- Drywall tape: $4.5 to $10 per roll
- Spackle: $5 to per 8 ounces
- Putty knife: $4 to $15
- Screws: $6 per pound
- Sandpaper or sanding sponge: $6 per sanding sponge
- Paint: Ranges from $20 to $40 per gallon
- Mud: $5 to $10 per gallon
Cost of Drywall Repair Per Square Foot
Drywall repair can be expensive. Small repairs can cost between $50 to $100 per square foot. Replacing entire walls or ceilings is cheaper, ranging from $2 to $6 per square foot.
Drywall contractors typically charge between $50 and $400 for each hole or crack. The price varies based on factors such as the size, location, and severity of the damage.
To figure out how much your drywall repair will cost, you need to know the total square footage of the area that needs fixing. Once you have that number, you can get a repair estimate from a local drywall repair professional.
Here’s a breakdown of how drywall repair costs can vary by square footage:
- 2 square feet: $100-$160
- 4 square feet: $200-$330
- 6 square feet: $300-$500
- 8 square feet: $400-$650
- 10 square feet: $500-$800
- 20 square feet: $1,000-$1,600
Drywall Repair Costs by Type of Solution
The cost to repair drywall depends on the method used and the extent of the damage. Here’s an estimate of average costs for common drywall repair solutions:
- Patchwork: $7 for each patch
- Filling Compound: $5 for every 8 ounces
- Adhesive Tape: $10 per reel
- Abrasion: $6 for each sanding sponge
- Mud: $5 to $10 per gallon
Drywall Repair Costs by Type of Damage
Different types of drywall damage come with different repair costs. Some issues, like small holes, are cheaper to fix, while others, like ceiling damage, are more expensive because of the need for specialized equipment.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for different types of damage:
- Crack Repair: $10-$400
- Ceiling repairs: $230-$1,400
- Small holes: $10-$130
- Large holes: $60-$220
- Dents: $10-$150
- Tears: $25-$120
- Nail pops: $10-$60
- Water damage: $500-$1,550
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Damage Type
Cracks:
Small cracks in drywall are usually inexpensive to fix. However, if the crack requires removing and replacing a large section of drywall, the cost can rise.
Average cost: $10-$400
Ceiling Repairs:
Ceiling repairs can be necessary because of damage from hanging items, water, or fire. These repairs are more labor-intensive and costly because of the difficulty in reaching and working on ceilings.
Average cost: $230-$1,400
Small Holes:
These are often caused by picture hangers or minor accidents. Repairing small holes in drywall is a quick and easy job.
Average cost: $10-$130
Large Holes:
Larger holes may require a patch or even replacing a whole drywall sheet.
Average cost: $60-$220
Dents:
Dents are usually easy and cheap to fix, unless they are on a wall corner. In that case, it may cost more to replace the corner bead.
Average cost: $10-$150
Tears:
Small tears can often be repaired without removing drywall by using a primer or joint compound.
Average cost: $25-$120
Nail Pops:
Nail pops happen as the house settles, causing nails to shift and become visible. Repairing these is generally simple.
Average cost: $10-$60
Water Damage Drywall:
Repairing water damage can be expensive. It requires removing damaged drywall and replacing it with water-resistant material, which can also be costly.
Average cost: $500-$1,550
Common Causes of Drywall Damage
- Water damage: Leaks can weaken drywall and cause significant issues.
- Cracks: Temperature changes, humidity, and foundation shifts can lead to cracks.
- Dents: These occur when a heavy object hits the wall.
- Holes: Improper tool or anchor use can cause holes.
- House settling: As the foundation moves, various drywall issues, including nail pops, can occur.
- Moisture and Humidity: High humidity levels can lead to mold growth and damage the drywall over time.
- Poor Installation: Incorrect installation can cause issues like bubbling, uneven surfaces, or loose drywall over time.
How to Save Money on Drywall Repair
While drywall repair costs are inevitable, there are ways to reduce expenses:
- Fix small issues before they become significant challenges.
- Use patches instead of full sheets.
- Handle minor repairs yourself.
- Keep old drywall scraps for future use.
- Reinforce repairs with drywall tape.
- Use a wet sponge for sanding to avoid mess.
- Opt for spray foam for small repairs.
However, if you’re not confident in your repair skills, mistakes can end up costing more in the long run.
When to Call a Drywall Repair Professional
While some repairs might seem easy, hiring a professional is often the best option, especially if:
- You’ve never repaired drywall before.
- You lack time to ensure a thorough job.
- The repair is in a visible area.
- It involves a corner or corner bead.
- The damage is extensive or on the ceiling.
In many cases, getting a professional will save you time and ensure the repair is done right.
FAQs
Should You Repair or Replace Drywall?
For smaller damages, repairing drywall is usually quick and easy. If the damage is severe or from water or pests, it may be best to replace the drywall to fully fix the issue.
What Does Drywall Repair Include?
Drywall repair generally covers everything needed to restore the damaged area to its original condition. Be sure to ask if the service includes repainting after the repair.
How Long Does Drywall Repair Take?
A basic drywall repair can occupy up to two hours, followed by a 24-hour drying period before painting. More complex repairs, like those involving ceilings, can take several days.
Contact the Pros for Drywall Repair
While minor drywall repairs can often be handled on your own, some require professional expertise. To save time, effort, and avoid stress, contact ROA Drywall Contractors for a free quote on your drywall repair.
Avoid the stress and contact ROA Drywall Professionals in Austin today for all your drywall repair needs.