Skip to main content
Bunnings

Sign in or sign up

No Bunnings account? Sign up
or
PowerPass customer?
Visit the dedicated trade website

Project list

Sign in to your account

Our Price Guarantee

How to fix a hole in the wall

Room with plants in pots on the ground and on a stand

Steps

1Identify the size of the holes

There are different methods for patching up a hole depending on its size. From small holes made by nails in the wall to larger holes created by accidents or powerpoint removals, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of making your own repairs.
A person pointing to a hole in a wall

2Use Spakfilla to repair small holes

Small holes are easy to fix. First, remove any loose particles around the hole to give yourself as smooth a surface as possible. Make sure the area is clean and dry before starting.

Next, using a scraper, apply the Spakfilla. This is a ready-mixed, lightweight filler that dries fast, doesn’t shrink and only needs one application. Apply the filler firmly into the hole and scrape off any excess. Allow this to dry and sand off any excess filler.

A person holding a scraper next to a wall

3Use a repair patch to fix larger holes

You may have a larger hole from an old powerpoint or an accident that needs fixing. First, get yourself a repair patch. Repair patches come in a range of sizes and they create a strong and durable wall finish.

To apply, remove all loose particles around the hole and ensure the surface is clean and dry. Take your repair patch, remove the backing on the mesh and place it so that all edges of the hole are completely covered.

Using a scraper, cover the repair patch with a thin layer of filler. Go over it with the scraper to ensure the application is smooth and allow to dry. Apply a second coat of filler to ensure the mesh is well-hidden.

A person peeling tape off a wall

4Give it a light sand

Once fully dry, sand the dried filler with a medium grit sandpaper until you cannot see when your plaster patch has been adhered. Dust off any filler remnants and wash the wall using sugar soap to prepare for painting.

A person holding a piece of sandpaper against a wall

5Paint over the patch

You can paint over the isolated patch area or give your entire wall a coat of paint to freshen up the room and minimise any blending issues.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: If you’re looking to colour-match the paint of your walls, visit us in-store. We have premium paint-matching services that will make sure you get the exact colour you’re looking for. If you’re using oil-based paint, allow at least 24 hours for the filler to dry. Spakfilla is water-based so it's easy to wash off your hands and tools, as well as clean up any excess.
A room with grey painted walls

6Pick up supplies in-store

Ready to fix that unsightly hole in the wall? Head in-store to get what you need for this D.I.Y. fix. Once your walls are repaired, hang pictures and artwork to add warmth and personality to your home. Check out our guide on how to hang a picture
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.