Back to Interior Painting How-To's
How to Repair a Crack
Now is the time to repair any wall damage before you paint. Ensure the beauty of your freshly painted walls by repairing any cracks.
For Best Results:
Refer to the how-to for step-by-step instructions on repairing cracks.
Suggested Tools & Supplies
- 5-in-1 Tool
- Vinyl Gloves
- Ladder
- Patching Material
- Protective Apparel
- Putty Knife
- Rags
- Sandpaper (100, 220 Grit)
- Scraper
- Ceiling/Wall Patch
-
Step 1
Using 100-grit sandpaper, remove any loose debris from the cracked area.
TIP: Use a 5-in-1 painter's tool to widen cracks that are less than 6.5 mm wide. This will remove old caulking, paint, and other debris from the cracks and will allow the patching material to bond tightly to the damaged area.
-
Step 2
Again using 100-grit sandpaper, lightly sand any raised or rough areas. Remove any dust or debris from the area with a water-dampened rag.
-
Step 3
Using a putty knife, spread a thin layer of patching material into the cracked area. Allow it to dry.
TIP: To create an even surface, always smooth out (feather) the patching material 25 - 50 mm beyond the repaired area.
-
Step 4
Use 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the patched area and make it even with the surface.
TIP: If shrinking of the patching material occurs, lightly sand and clean the area and apply additional layers of patching material as needed.
-
Step 5
Remove any final dust or debris from the finished repair.
TIP: If retexturing of the surface is necessary, choose a finish that will match the existing surface. Textured ceiling/wall patch kits are available in aerosol and powder forms. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
PAINT AND STAIN CALCULATOR
Inside or outside; paint or stain: Let’s figure out how much you’ll need to make amazing happen.
Calculate
ASK AN EXPERT
Every project is unique: Keep small wrinkles from becoming big problems by letting the Behr Technical Experts lend a hand.
Get Expert Help
COLOUR STUDIO
So many colours and so many ideas: Visit Behr’s Colour Studio for inspiration, colour tools, design advice and everything you need to find your project’s perfect colour.
Colour Studio
