ArcaMax

A textured wall surface is an attractive finish, but making a repair to the surface can be tricky. The finish, also called a “knockdown finish,” is random, so it’s not easy to replicate the surface texture to match when the repair is completed. The repair may be needed in a wall or ceiling, resulting from a wayward doorknob that bangs into a wall or from a hole left from replacing a light fixture or home electronics. Head to a home center or hardware store to find a solution called a Drywall Repair Tool that lets you fix the damage without a lot of time or money.

The repair is basically two steps. First you fill the hole by cleaning it out and then applying patching compound to fill the hole and sanding it smooth. If it’s a deep hole, more than one application may be needed to build up the repaired area so it is flush with the surface surrounding it.

The second step is using the Drywall Repair Tool to match the texture of the surface around the repair area. The tool is a template that comes in one of three textures: fine, medium or heavy. Choose the template texture to match the surface you’re repairing. Place the template over the patched area and apply the compound, then remove the template to let it dry. When the compound is dry, lightly sand the area to blend in with the surrounding surface. You’ll need your own putty knife and sandpaper to do the job. For the best results, complete the job by painting the entire surface for a uniform finish.

A handyman will charge $210, including labor and material, to make the repair, but you can buy the materials for $40 and save 81% by doing it yourself.

Pro Cost: $210 — DIY Cost: $40 — Pro time: 2.6 DIY Time: 3.5 — DIY Savings: $170 — Percent Saved: 81%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2026 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.