Drywall damage is something nearly every homeowner deals with at some point. Whether it’s a small hole from moving furniture, cracks caused by settling, or serious ceiling damage from a plumbing leak, drywall problems are common — and they require proper repair to restore both appearance and structural integrity.
So, how much does drywall repair cost?
The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the damaged area, the type of repair needed, ceiling versus wall location, texture matching requirements, and local labor rates. In most cases, the drywall repair cost in the United States ranges between $150 and $800 for standard repairs. However, extensive water damage or large ceiling sections can push the total beyond $1,500 or more.
Understanding the type of repair required is the first step in estimating the true cost to repair drywall.
Average Cost of Drywall Repair
When homeowners search for the average cost of drywall repair, they are typically dealing with small to moderate interior damage. For everyday issues such as dents, nail pops, minor cracks, or holes smaller than a foot wide, most repairs fall within the $300 to $600 range.
This average includes labor, materials, joint compound, sanding, and basic surface preparation. However, many contractors have minimum service charges. Even a small drywall patch may cost $150 simply because of travel time, setup, and drying cycles between compound applications.
The average drywall repair cost reflects not only the visible damage but also the time required to blend the repair seamlessly into the surrounding wall.
Drywall Repair Cost Per Square Foot
For larger damaged areas, contractors may calculate pricing using drywall repair cost per square foot. On average, the cost to repair drywall per square foot ranges from $2 to $6, depending on complexity.
However, square-foot pricing typically applies only when the damaged area is large. Small repairs are usually billed as flat-rate jobs rather than strictly by square footage. If the repair requires texture matching or repainting the entire wall, the effective per-square-foot cost increases.
The final drywall repair costs per square foot also depend on whether insulation, framing, or moisture mitigation is required behind the drywall.
Drywall Hole Repair Cost
One of the most common service requests involves repairing holes. Whether caused by doorknobs, accidental impacts, or home renovations, the drywall hole repair cost varies based on size.
Small holes (such as nail holes or dents) may cost as little as $100 to $250. Medium-sized holes, typically between three and twelve inches, often cost between $200 and $500. Larger holes that require cutting out and replacing full drywall sections can range from $400 to $1,000 or more.
When asking, how much does it cost to repair a hole in drywall, it’s important to consider whether studs are damaged or whether additional support framing is needed. Larger repairs often require inserting backing boards before patching, which increases labor time.
Ceiling Drywall Repair Cost
Ceiling damage tends to cost more than wall repairs. The ceiling drywall repair cost typically ranges from $300 to $1,200, depending on the cause and size of the damage.
Ceilings are more challenging to repair because technicians must work overhead. This slows the process and increases labor effort. Additionally, if water damage caused the problem, the repair may involve removing insulation, checking for mold, and replacing larger sections of drywall.
The cost to repair drywall ceiling water damage often exceeds standard wall repairs due to the additional drying and remediation work required. If the ceiling has a textured finish or popcorn texture, blending the repair seamlessly can further increase the total.
Drywall Water Damage Repair Cost
Water damage is among the most expensive drywall issues. Whether from roof leaks, plumbing failures, or flooding, saturated drywall must usually be removed and replaced rather than simply patched.
The drywall water damage repair cost typically falls between $500 and $2,000, depending on how far the moisture spread. The repair process may include cutting out damaged sections, drying framing components, applying antimicrobial treatments, installing new drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, texturing, and repainting.
If mold develops behind the drywall, the mold drywall repair cost increases significantly due to remediation protocols.
Drywall Crack Repair Cost
Hairline cracks are common in homes that experience seasonal expansion or minor structural settling. The drywall crack repair cost usually ranges from $100 to $400, depending on crack length and depth.
Cracks along seams may require re-taping and multiple coats of compound to prevent reappearance. If the cracks extend across ceilings, the cost to repair drywall ceiling cracks can increase due to overhead labor.
Proper crack repair ensures the issue doesn’t reappear after painting.
Handyman Drywall Repair Cost
Many homeowners hire a handyman for minor repairs. The handyman drywall repair cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 per hour, with most small repairs totaling between $150 and $400.
For minor dents or small patches, a handyman can often provide a cost-effective solution. However, larger or more complex repairs—especially ceiling or water damage—may require a licensed contractor.
Drywall Repair and Paint Cost
In many cases, drywall repair is only part of the project. Once patched and sanded, the area must be primed and painted. The drywall repair and paint cost may add an additional $150 to $500, depending on wall size and whether full-wall repainting is required.
Matching paint color and sheen can sometimes require repainting the entire surface for a uniform finish. The cost to repair drywall and paint is typically higher when textured finishes must also be replicated.
Labor Cost to Repair Drywall
Labor makes up the majority of the cost of drywall repair. The labor cost to repair drywall varies by region but typically ranges between $50 and $100 per hour.
Because drywall repair often involves multiple visits to allow joint compound to dry between coats, labor time can extend beyond what homeowners expect. The total drywall repair labor cost reflects preparation, application, sanding, cleanup, and potential painting.
What Is the Average Cost for Drywall Repair?
When homeowners ask, what is the average cost for drywall repair, the realistic nationwide range falls between $300 and $600 for standard interior repairs.
Small cosmetic fixes may cost less than $200, while large ceiling repairs, water damage, or structural replacements may exceed $1,500.
Ultimately, the cost to repair drywall depends on damage severity, repair complexity, and finishing requirements.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does drywall repair cost?
For most homeowners, minor drywall repairs cost a few hundred dollars. Moderate hole repairs and crack fixes typically fall within the $300 to $600 range. Ceiling repairs and water damage increase costs significantly due to added labor and restoration work.
If you want an accurate estimate, request an on-site evaluation that includes:
- Scope of removal
- Replacement materials
- Texture matching
- Painting
- Cleanup
A professional repair not only restores the wall’s appearance but also prevents long-term issues from hidden moisture or improper patching.