Do-It-Yourselfers Can Handle Some Drywall Repairs

Homeowners can make minor drywall repairs, such as taping and sanding cracks, or patching small holes using paper or mesh tape that adds strength to the repair.

The bigger the hole, the more added strength needed. Larger mesh patches should be used instead of multiple strips of tape that build up the wall surface too much. These larger mesh patches can be purchased alone or in repair kits.

As repair needs grow due to bigger and bigger holes, you can start saving money by switching from the larger mesh patches--made for drywall repair--to patches cut from common fiberglass window screening. They work just as well and cost much less.