askvity

How to Close Small Holes from Nails or Screws in Walls

Published in Drywall Repair 2 mins read

To effectively close small holes left by nails or screws in walls, the recommended method involves using a wall filler applied with the correct tool.

Filling small holes from hardware like nails or screws is a common home maintenance task. The key to a smooth finish often lies in the tools and techniques used for applying the filler.

Essential Tool for Filling Small Wall Holes

Based on expert recommendations, the preferred tool for applying wall filler to small holes is a flexible putty knife.

  • Flexible Putty Knife: This type of knife allows for easier control and a smoother application of the filler, helping to create a flush surface with the surrounding wall.
  • Avoid Rigid Tools: It is specifically advised not to use a rigid tool like a 5-in-1 tool for filling these small holes because its stiffness makes it less effective for this task.

Before applying the filler, you might prepare the hole, potentially creating what is referred to as a "nest" for the filler to sit in securely. Once prepared, the flexible putty knife is used to apply the filler into the hole and smooth it over the surface.

This approach ensures that the filler is properly seated and the patch is blended seamlessly with the wall, ready for subsequent steps like sanding and painting if necessary.

Related Articles