How to Repair and Refinish Textured Drywall: Common Issues and Solutions

Textured drywall adds character and depth to interior walls, creating a visually appealing finish. However, over time, textured drywall can suffer from wear and tear, damage, and other issues that may detract from its appearance. Understanding how to repair and refinish textured drywall can help maintain its aesthetic appeal and ensure that it continues to enhance your space. Here’s a guide to common issues with textured drywall and effective solutions for addressing them.

Common Issues with Textured Drywall

Cracks and Holes: Over time, cracks and holes can appear in textured drywall due to settling of the building, impact, or general wear. These imperfections not only affect the appearance but can also lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.

Peeling or Flaking Texture: Sometimes, the texture may begin to peel or flake off, often due to poor application, moisture damage, or age. This can leave unsightly patches that disrupt the uniform appearance of the wall.

Stains and Discoloration: Textured drywall can also become stained or discolored due to water damage, spills, or exposure to smoke and grease. These stains can be challenging to remove and may require more than just surface cleaning.

Dents and Dings: Accidental bumps and impacts can cause dents and dings in textured drywall. These imperfections can be particularly noticeable on highly textured surfaces.

Solutions for Repairing Textured Drywall

Repairing Cracks and Holes:

Small Cracks and Holes: For minor cracks and small holes, start by cleaning the area and removing any loose debris. Apply a primer and then fill the crack or hole with a high-quality joint compound or spackle. Smooth the surface with a putty knife, and allow it to dry completely. Once dry, lightly sand the area to ensure it is flush with the surrounding texture.

Larger Cracks and Holes: For larger damage, you may need to use a patching compound. Cut a piece of drywall to fit the hole, apply drywall adhesive or joint compound around the edges, and press the patch into place. Tape the seams with drywall tape and cover with joint compound. Once dry, sand the area to blend it with the surrounding texture.

Addressing Peeling or Flaking Texture:

Peeling Texture: If the texture is peeling, remove the loose material and clean the area thoroughly. Apply a new layer of texture using the same technique as the original application, such as a knockdown, popcorn, or knockdown style. Allow it to dry completely before painting.

Flaking Texture: For flaking, gently scrape off the flaking texture and clean the area. Prime the surface to help the new texture adhere better, and then apply a fresh coat of texture. Match the new texture to the existing pattern for a seamless finish.

Removing Stains and Discoloration:

Cleaning: For light stains, try cleaning the area with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the stained area, and rinse with clean water. Avoid soaking the drywall, as excessive moisture can lead to further damage.

Repainting:  For stubborn stains or discoloration, you may need to repaint the affected area. Apply a stain-blocking primer to the stained areas and let it dry. Then, repaint the area with a matching wall paint to restore the uniform appearance of the textured surface.

Fixing Dents and Dings:

Small Dents: For minor dents, apply a small amount of joint compound to fill the dent. Smooth the compound with a putty knife and allow it to dry. Sand the area gently to blend it with the surrounding texture, then repaint if necessary.

Large Dents: For larger dents, you may need to use a patching compound. Follow similar steps as for repairing large holes—apply the compound, smooth it out, let it dry, and sand it to blend with the existing texture.

Refinishing Textured Drywall

Once repairs are complete, refinishing the drywall can restore its original appearance. Begin by cleaning the entire surface to remove dust and debris. Apply a coat of primer to ensure even coverage and better adhesion for the paint. After the primer dries, apply a fresh coat of paint to match the existing color or update it as desired. For the best results, use a paint roller with a texture-matching roller cover to replicate the original texture pattern.

By addressing common issues with textured drywall and employing effective repair and refinishing techniques, you can maintain the beauty and functionality of your walls. Whether you’re fixing minor imperfections or tackling more extensive repairs, these solutions will help you achieve a professional-looking finish that enhances your home’s interior.