Easy Fix-ups for Walls

Cracks

• Caused by everything from localized impacts, such as a fall or dropped object, to environmental factors such as earthquakes and house foundation settling, cracks can appear anywhere in the home and often lead to structural as well as aesthetic damage. Methods for fixing cracks in the wall vary according to the seriousness of the damage. Small aesthetic cracks caused by tightly-fastened screw holes or broken towel racks are not significant to the wall if treated. These problems are fixed by pasting over the crack with a bit of all-purpose compound or plaster, depending on the material used for the wall, and then repainting the surface. Larger cracks in a wall are fixed by removing the damaged section of the wall entirely and replacing it with a fresh section or plaster coating.

Holes

• Like the cracks in a wall, holes are dealt with according to the matter of degree. The smallest holes, caused by screws and nails, are healed by applying small amounts of filler or spackling. Like all-purpose compound, this material fills and then covers small holes. Larger holes, such as those caused by door knobs, are repaired using a small patch of metal mesh, which is placed over the hole and then pasted over with all-purpose compound. The largest holes require removal of a section of the wall. This section is then replaced by a piece that is taped and then pasted over with compound and painted.

Smudges

• Smaller problems, such as smudges caused by sneakers, oil, and the like are easily fixed with magic eraser pads such as Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and Scotch Bright Easy Erasing Pad. These cleaning pads use chemicals to cover and erase the smudges caused by shoe rubber, oil and dirt. The pads are especially useful for isolated spots and smudges.

Mildew

• Mildew appearing on the wall is an indicator of high humidity and poor ventilation. Mildew will eat away at wallpaper if not treated and can even cause respiratory problems in asthmatics. Wash the wall with disinfectant soap, and ensure the room has proper ventilation. Install a dehumidifier if necessary.