How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost?

Depending on the issue, fixing drywall can be as inexpensive as $10, or it can cost over $1,500.

Just have a couple of quick questions. Jump to more Mr. Handyman quick answers about How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost.

Is it better to replace or repair drywall?

What does drywall repair include?

How long should a drywall repair take?

How much does drywall repair cost on average?

How much to fix a hole in the wall?

How much does cracked ceiling repair cost?

How much does it cost to replace sheetrock?

Can I DIY drywall repair or should I hire a pro?

Is drywall repair covered by homeowners insurance?

Can a handyman fix a hole in the wall?

How do I know if my drywall damage is serious?

Why should I choose Mr. Handyman for drywall repair?

When it comes to homeownership, one of the most popular types of maintenance or repair concerns drywall. Depending on the issue, fixing drywall can be as inexpensive as $10, or it can cost over $1,500. Whether you’re dealing with accidental water damage or holes made to hang photos, at some point, you’ll find yourself asking, what does drywall repair cost? In this article, we’ll review some of the different types of drywall repairs and factors that can affect the cost.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Drywall Repair

Just like any other home repair project, a few factors will affect how much it costs to get drywall repaired properly, including:

• Size of the repair area
• Type of damage
• Presence of water damage
• Geographic location
• Presence of pests, lead paint, or asbestos

Call your local Mr. Handyman^® today to get an estimate for your drywall repair.

Drywall repair materials

The cost of materials is a major factor in how much your drywall repair costs. After booking an appointment with Mr. Handyman, you can purchase the materials yourself, or our service professionals will provide them for an additional cost.

Here’s the approximate cost for materials you’ll need:

• Drywall patch: $7 per patch
• Drywall: $13-$24 per 8-by-12-foot sheet
• Drywall tape: $10 per roll
• Spackle: $5 per 8 ounces
• Putty knife: $4
• Screws: $6 per pound
• Sandpaper: $6 per sanding sponge
• Paint: $20-$40 per gallon
• Mud: $5 per gallon

Drywall repair cost per square foot

When determining how much your drywall repair will cost, consider the total square footage of the drywall that needs repair. Once you calculate the total square footage, you can get a cost estimate for the repair from a drywall repair professional in your area.

Here’s an idea of how the cost per square foot can vary:

Drywall repair cost by type of solution

There are a few ways you can repair drywall, depending on the type and extent of the damage. These are the average costs for common drywall repair solutions:

Drywall repair cost by type of damage

Certain types of drywall damage are more costly to repair than others. For example, you can sometimes repair a small hole from a misplaced anchor with an inexpensive patch kit, but ceiling repairs are costly because they require specialized equipment and expertise.

Here’s the cost range you can expect for each type of repair:

Cracks

If you need a small drywall crack repair, chances are the repair costs will also be small. However, your costs will be higher if the crack requires removing and replacing a large amount of drywall to complete the repair.

Average cost to repair: $10-$450

Ceiling repair

A drywall ceiling repair may be necessary if something was hung from the ceiling or the ceiling was damaged as a result of water, fire, or some other event. Since ceilings are not as easy to reach and work on, these repairs require more effort and have higher labor costs. In addition to the complexity, the extent of the damage will also be a factor since it may require more people and equipment to complete the job.

Average cost to repair: $230-$1,400

Small holes

Sometimes, the drywall anchor that’s used to hang a picture might break. When this happens, you’ll have to remove it, install a new one, and repair the hole it left behind. This is a relatively easy and minor repair that should only take a few minutes.

Average cost to repair: $10-$135

Large holes

Larger holes in drywall can be replaced with larger patches or by hanging a new drywall sheet, depending on the cause and extent of the damage.

Average cost to repair: $60-$225

Dents

Small dents in drywall can be repaired fairly easily, which means the cost of drywall repair per square foot is going to be pretty affordable.

However, if the dent is on the corner of a wall, you may need to remove the corner bead that holds the two pieces of drywall together. This will add time and labor to the job, which will increase the costs of the repair.

Average cost to repair: $10-$160

Tears

If the tear in your drywall repair is relatively small, you may not need to remove any drywall to repair it. Some torn drywall paper can be fixed using a primer or sealer and a joint compound. If this is possible, it will keep your drywall repair cost low.

Average cost to repair: $25-$130

Nail pop

Over time, there’s some natural movement in a house as the frame settles and shifts. This can cause the nails to shift or “pop” out of place so they’re visible through the wall paint. Repairing nail pops is usually simple and inexpensive.

Average cost to repair: $10-$70

Water damage

If you need to replace drywall after water damage, it will be a pricier repair. Ensure you fix the root of the water damage, hire a professional to remove all the damaged drywall, and install water-resistant drywall to prevent further issues.

Average cost to repair: $550-$1,600

Common Causes of Drywall Damage

Various issues can cause drywall damage, from normal wear and tear to natural disasters. Here are the most common culprits:

• Water damage: Occurs when a leak reaches drywall, affecting its integrity
• Cracks: Occur when temperature, humidity, or foundation movement causes drywall to shift
• Dents: Occur when there’s force applied to a wall, such as a heavy object hitting it
• Holes: Occur with improper tool or anchor use
• House settling: Occurs when a home’s foundation shifts and causes a variety of drywall issues, such as nail pops

How To Save Money on Drywall Repair

While all home repairs and maintenance come with some associated costs, there are ways to reduce the cost of drywall repair per square foot. Some ways to save money on drywall repair include:

• Repair weak drywall spots or damage before they become a larger problem.
• Use repair patches instead of whole sheets of drywall.
• DIY small and minor drywall repairs yourself.
• Use a primer-sealer for torn drywall repair.
• Save old scraps of drywall for future repairs.
• Reinforce repairs with drywall tape.
• “Sand” drywall repairs with a wet sponge.
• Use spray foam instead of drywall patches.

When considering a shortcut or "hack," make sure that the pros outweigh the cons. If you’re not confident you can fix a hole yourself, your drywall mistakes may cost you more in the long run.

When To Call a Drywall Repair Professional

While there are situations where a DIY repair might be sufficient, hiring a professional for drywall repair is usually a better option. Many drywall repairs may seem simple and straightforward but require some expertise to get the repair looking just right.

Here are some examples of when a DIY repair might not be the best idea:

• If you’ve never repaired drywall before
• If you don’t have enough time to commit to ensure a thorough repair
• If the repair is in a highly visible area
• If a corner or corner bead repair is required
• If the repairs are extensive and cover a large area
• If ceiling repairs are needed

In most cases, calling in a professional is the best way to get a job done quickly and correctly without adding more work and stress to your to-do list.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Handyman is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mr. Handyman location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

FAQs About Drywall Repair Costs

For over 25 years, Mr. Handyman professionals have been helping homeowners and businesses repair, maintain, and enhance their space. We are a one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about drywall repair costs.

Is it better to replace or repair drywall?

If the damage is minor—think nail holes, small dents, or scuffs—then a quick patch is usually all you need. But if you're dealing with water damage, pest issues, or large holes, a full sheetrock repair might be the better long-term fix. A local handyman can help you weigh your options and give you an accurate drywall repair cost estimate.

What does drywall repair include?

Drywall repair typically covers everything from assessing the damage to patching, sanding, and prepping for paint. Larger jobs could involve replacing panels or require a full sheetrock repair. Be sure to ask what’s included in your handyman drywall repair cost so there are no surprises.

How long should a drywall repair take?

Simple drywall repairs like fixing small holes or cracks can often be done in a few hours. However, larger jobs, such as ceiling damage or multiple wall repairs, can take a few days depending on drying time and finishing. Time is one of the factors that can impact the total drywall repair cost.

How much does drywall repair cost on average?

The average drywall repair cost ranges from $150 to $1,500, depending on the scope of work. Factors that influence your handyman’s drywall repair cost include the size of the damage, whether you're dealing with walls or ceilings, the texture and finish required, and whether painting is needed. Accessibility issues and working around plumbing or electrical can also impact how much drywall repair costs. Small patch jobs are on the lower end, while extensive wall or ceiling work—especially sheetrock repair—can run higher. Your handyman can provide a custom quote based on your needs.

How much to fix a hole in the wall?

A handyman will likely charge $10–$135 to fix a hole in the wall smaller than 6 inches. Larger holes, or those requiring full sheetrock repair, can cost up to $225 or more. Your final cost may also depend on paint matching and texture blending.

How much does cracked ceiling repair cost?

Ceiling damage is often more complex to fix, especially if water leaks are to blame. The average ceiling repair cost ranges from $230 to well over $1,000, depending on the extent of your damage. Textured or popcorn ceilings can also drive the price up. Talk to a pro about your specific needs to get a clearer idea of how much a cracked ceiling repair costs.

How much does it cost to replace sheetrock?

If your drywall is beyond repair, you might need a full replacement. The average cost of sheetrock replacement can fall between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot, not including paint or texture. A professional handyman can assess whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective.

Can I DIY drywall repair or should I hire a pro?

You can DIY small fixes like nail holes or tiny dents. But if you're dealing with structural issues, moisture damage, or ceiling cracks, it's smart to hire a professional. A trained handyman can help you get the most out of your drywall repair cost—for both the look and the lifespan of the repair.

Related topic: 6 DIY Drywall Mistakes

Is drywall repair covered by homeowners insurance?

In some cases, yes. If the damage was caused by a covered peril—like a burst pipe or storm damage—your insurance might cover the drywall repair cost. It’s best to check with your insurance provider and document the damage before starting any repairs.

Can a handyman fix a hole in the wall?

Absolutely! A professional handyman knows how to patch, sand, and finish to fix the hole in your wall and ensure the repair blends right in. Whether the damage came from moving furniture, old decor, or another source, a handyman can repair it quickly and efficiently.

How do I know if my drywall damage is serious?

Small cracks or dings are usually easy fixes, but signs like sagging, bubbling, discoloration, or large holes could point to water damage or structural problems. In those cases, you may need sheetrock repair or replacement, leading to a higher drywall repair cost than a simple fix. A professional handyman can assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate repair.

Why should I choose Mr. Handyman for drywall repair?

Whether you’re dealing with a minor or major drywall issue, Mr. Handyman makes it easy to get the job done right. From tiny dents to full sheetrock repair, our experienced service professionals do it all—and we’ll always show up on time, in uniform, and ready to work. We take the guesswork out of pricing too, so you’ll always know your drywall repair cost before we get started.

Need help with a ceiling? No problem. From patching up holes to full cracked ceiling repair, we’ve seen (and fixed) it all. We’re not just here to fix a wall—we’re here to help you feel confident in your home again.

Contact the Pros for Drywall Repair

While many minor drywall repairs can be done quickly and easily, some require the experience and expertise of a professional. If you have drywall damage that needs repair and you want to save time, effort, and stress, contact a Mr. Handyman near you and get a quote for your drywall repair cost.

All of our projects are backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise^™, which means you can trust that we’ll do the job right the first time. Skip the headache and request service from a Mr. Handyman service professional today to handle your drywall repair.