How to Fix Cracks in the Wall Near a Door

Draw a rectangular outline around the crack in the wall, using a pencil. Cut a section of the outline in the wall with a square. Put your hand through the broken section and feel for obstructions, such as wires. Cut along the outline in the wall with a utility knife.

Measure the height of the rectangular opening. Cut two lengths of 1-by-4-inch pine 4 inches longer than the height of the hole, using a saw. The two lengths serve as backer boards for the drywall replacement piece.

Insert a length of backer board through the opening and position it vertically along one end. Hold this board tight to the backside of the drywall. Drive two 1-1/4-inch screws through the top and bottom end of the drywall and into the corresponding ends of the board to secure it. Repeat the process with the second board on the other end of the rectangular opening.

Measure the dimensions of the rectangular opening in the drywall. Transfer the measurements to the replacement piece and cut it to size with a utility knife.

Insert the replacement piece in the opening. Trim excess length along the sides, if necessary, so it fits snugly. Using a drill with a screwdriver bit, drive drywall screws into the ends, 6 inches apart.

Spread a 1/8-inch-thick layer of drywall compound over the edges of the replacement piece or the joints. Cut a length of paper tape and press it over a joint, directly onto the drywall compound, using a flexible knife. Smooth out the tape by pulling it outward to each end from the center. Repeat the process of taping the remaining joints.

Apply a thin layer of drywall compound over the tape. Leave it to dry according to the time specified on the label directions.

Apply a second coat of drywall compound over the joints, but extend it 6 to 8 inches beyond the edge of the previous coat to blend the edges of the repair. Let this coat dry and repeat the process to apply a third coat of compound.

Sand the surface of the dried drywall compound using 100-grit sandpaper. Smooth out the surface before priming or painting it, so it blends with the surrounding wall.