How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost?
Drywall repair costs vary by the size and type of damage. Small nail holes and dents cost $50–$100 to fix, medium patches (fist-sized holes) run $100–$300, and large repairs or full sheet replacements cost $300–$800+. Most handymen charge $50–$100/hour for drywall work. The total typically includes patching, mudding, sanding, and priming — painting the repaired area is usually extra.
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Browse providersAverage drywall repair costs by damage type
| Repair type | Typical cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Nail holes / small dents (per room) | $50–$100 |
| Small hole patch (up to 4 inches) | $75–$150 |
| Medium hole patch (4–12 inches) | $100–$300 |
| Large hole / section replacement | $200–$500 |
| Water-damaged drywall (per sheet) | $300–$800 |
| Ceiling drywall repair | $200–$600 |
| Full sheet replacement (4×8 ft) | $250–$500 |
| Texture matching (orange peel, knockdown) | $100–$300 extra |
Sources: HomeAdvisor 2025, Angi handyman pricing data.
What affects the cost?
- Size of the damage — small nail holes are a quick fix; large holes require cutting out drywall and installing new pieces
- Location — ceiling repairs cost 20–40% more than wall repairs due to difficulty
- Water damage — wet drywall must be fully removed and replaced; the water source must be fixed first
- Texture matching — matching existing wall texture (knockdown, orange peel, skip trowel) requires skill and adds cost
- Painting — most quotes cover patching and priming only; painting is typically an additional charge
- Accessibility — repairs behind heavy furniture or in tight spaces take longer
Costs by country
Drywall repair costs in the United States
US handymen charge $50–$100/hour for drywall repairs. Most small jobs have a minimum call-out fee of $75–$150 regardless of how quick the repair is. A typical medium-sized patch job (including materials) costs $150–$350 total. For extensive water damage or multiple rooms, expect $500–$2,000+. Labor rates are highest in coastal metros (NYC, SF, LA) at $80–$120/hour and lowest in the Southeast and Midwest at $40–$70/hour.
How to save on drywall repair
- DIY small patches — hardware stores sell kits ($10–$20) for holes up to 4 inches; tutorials are widely available
- Bundle repairs — schedule all patches in one visit to minimize call-out fees
- Skip texture matching for closets — in low-visibility areas, a smooth finish is faster and cheaper
- Handle your own painting — have the pro patch and prime, then paint it yourself
- Get 2–3 quotes — drywall repair pricing varies 30–50% between contractors
Learn about the trade
How to become a handyman: skills to develop, licensing, salary expectations, and career paths in the US, Poland, and the Netherlands.
How to become a handyman