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How to patch a plaster wall 

A repaired hole in the plasterboard wall

Overview

If you've got a hole or crack in your plasterboard that needs patching, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process to get your wall looking good as new.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Clean the area

Begin by clearing the damaged area of any loose debris, crumbling plaster, or flaking paint to ensure a clean surface for repair. Use a putty knife or your hands to gently remove anything unstable around the edges of the hole.
Removing the unstable material around the edges of the hole

2Sand around the hole

Next, lightly sand the paint surrounding the hole with sandpaper or score it with a utility knife. This creates a rougher texture, improving the adhesion of the patch or plaster filler to the surface.
Sand the paint around the hole using a sanding block

3Patch the hole with wire patch or joint tape

For a hole that’s about the size of your hand or larger, you’ll want to use either a metal wire patch or jointing tape. Choose a patch that’s slightly bigger than the hole. Peel off the backing from the patch and press it firmly over the hole, ensuring it covers the entire damaged area.
wire patch is placed over the hole

4Spread plaster compound or filler

Once the patch is in place, take a plastering trowel or broad knife and apply plaster compound over the top of the patch. Spread it evenly, making sure to feather the edges so the patched area blends seamlessly into the surrounding wall. You may need to apply a few layers of plaster compound, especially if the wire patch is still visible after the first coat. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Applying plaster compound over the patch using a plastering trowel

5Apply filler to smaller cracks

For minor damage, such as small holes or cracks, plaster filler is a quick and convenient solution. Use a filling blade or plaster trowel to apply the filler directly into the crack or small hole. Follow the same principles as with the larger repair—spread the filler evenly and smooth it out, blending the edges into the rest of the wall.
Applying plaster filler into small holes.

6Smooth out and blend the edges

Once the patch or filler has dried completely, it’s time to sand it down. Use a sanding block or loose sandpaper to smooth the surface. Start with a coarser grit to remove any excess plaster or filler, then move to a finer grit for a polished finish. Be gentle during this step to avoid damaging the surrounding area and once you’ve finished sanding, wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.

A person is using a sanding block to smooth the surface of the filled holes.

7Prime and paint

With your wall now patched and smoothed, it’s ready for painting. Begin by applying a coat of primer over the repaired area to seal the surface and ensure the paint adheres evenly. Use a paint brush or roller to apply the primer, extending slightly beyond the patched area to blend it with the surrounding wall. Once the primer has dried completely, paint over it using the same colour and finish as the rest of the wall. Apply the paint in thin, even layers, blending carefully to ensure a seamless transition between the patched section and the original wall, until it looks good as new.

8Looking for more ways to repair your home?

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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.