When your drywall gets damaged, you’re left with two choices: fix it yourself or hire a pro. Either way, knowing the average cost of drywall repair can help you budget and avoid surprises. Whether it’s a small hole from a doorknob or a bigger issue like water damage, costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the repair.
What Affects the Cost of Drywall Repair?
Several factors influence the cost of drywall repair. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Size of the Damage – Small holes are cheap to fix, while large sections cost more.
- Type of Damage – Cracks, holes, and water damage require different repair methods.
- Labor Costs – Hiring a contractor costs more than doing it yourself.
- Materials Needed – Drywall, joint compound, tape, and paint all add up.
Location – Labor costs vary depending on where you live.
Average Cost of Drywall Repair
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for drywall repair:
Type of Repair | Average Cost |
Small hole (1-2 inches) | $50 – $100 |
Medium hole (3-6 inches) | $100 – $200 |
Large hole (6+ inches) | $200 – $400 |
Water damage repair | $500 – $1,500 |
Full wall replacement | $1,500+ |
If you hire a professional, expect to pay around $50 to $100 per hour for labor. Most minor repairs take 1-2 hours, while bigger jobs can take several days.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
If you’re handy, you can save money by fixing drywall yourself. Here’s a cost comparison:
- DIY Repair – Materials cost around $20 to $50, including joint compound, sandpaper, and paint.
- Hiring a Pro – Costs range from $100 to $500+, depending on the repair size.
When to DIY:
- Small nail holes and minor cracks
- Tiny dents and dings
- If you already have the tools
When to Hire a Pro:
- Large or complex repairs
- Water or mold damage
- If the drywall is in a tricky spot (ceiling, corners, etc.)
Breaking Down the Costs
1. Small Holes & Cracks
These are the cheapest to fix. If you have a small hole, you’ll need:
- Spackle or joint compound ($5-$10)
- Putty knife ($5-$10)
- Sandpaper ($3-$5)
- Paint & primer ($10-$20)
Total DIY cost: $20 – $50
2. Medium to Large Holes
For larger holes, you’ll need a drywall patch kit or a new piece of drywall:
- Drywall patch kit ($10-$30)
- Joint compound & tape ($10-$20)
- Sandpaper ($5-$10)
- Paint & primer ($20-$40)
Total DIY cost: $50 – $100
3. Water Damage Repairs
Water damage is expensive because it often requires replacing entire sections of drywall. You may also need mold treatment, which increases the cost.
- Drywall replacement ($50 – $200 per sheet)
- Mold removal (if needed) ($500 – $2,000)
- Labor (if hiring a pro) ($50 – $100 per hour)
Total repair cost: $500 – $1,500+
How to Save on Drywall Repair
Want to cut costs? Here are some money-saving tips:
- Try DIY first – If it’s a small repair, watch some online tutorials and do it yourself.
- Get multiple quotes – If hiring a contractor, get at least three quotes to find the best price.
- Bundle repairs – If you have multiple drywall issues, fixing them all at once can save on labor costs.
Use leftover materials – If you’ve done home projects before, you may already have supplies like spackle and paint.
How long does a small drywall repair take?
A small drywall repair, like a nail hole or minor dent, usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to fix, including drying time for the spackle or joint compound.
How much does it cost to hire someone to drywall?
The cost to hire a professional to install drywall varies, but expect to pay between $1.50 and $3.00 per square foot for materials and labor.
What is the average labor cost to replace drywall?
Labor costs for drywall replacement are typically $50 to $100 per hour, with a total cost of $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job.
How much does it cost to repair a sheet of drywall?
Repairing a full sheet of drywall (4×8 feet) can range from $50 to $200, depending on the extent of the damage and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself.
Final Thoughts
The cost of drywall repair depends on the damage, materials, and whether you DIY or hire a pro. Small repairs are affordable, but bigger problems like water damage can get pricey. If you’re on a budget, try fixing minor issues yourself and save professional help for major repairs. Need a drywall pro? Get a few quotes and compare prices to get the best deal!
