Drywall is great stuff. Most of our homes are literally lined with it. But when it gets damaged, joint compound is what you need for these repairs. But working with joint compound can be like making a smooth wall from butter cream frosting.

Remember this stuff works best in thin layers. And unless you’re a pro, you’ll need to sand between each layer of drywall compound. Now this creates a mess as well, so try this. Use a slightly damp tile sponge instead of sandpaper. The moisture softens the drywall compound enough for the sponge to knock down the edges. This works really well on repairs to painted drywall.

If you’re trying to match the texture of a surrounding area, dab the last coat of compound with a scrap of short nap carpet to rough it up a bit, so that it blends in with the surrounding wall.

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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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