How to Even Out Uneven Walls

An uneven wall will noticeably stand out, even if you paint over it or cover it with wallpaper. The best way to go is to even out and smooth all the surface recesses of walls before you begin to paint or cover them. This is likely a multiday repair, even when recesses are not that deep, because you apply thin layers until the entire wall is level. Remember, as always, to protect yourself while you work.

Joint compound
Drywall taping knife
Dust mask
Eye protection
Hat
120-grit sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Scoop joint compound onto a drywall taping knife. Apply a thin layer of compound onto the recessed area of the wall, using the taping knife.
- 2
  Wait 24 hours to allow the patch of freshly applied joint compound to fully dry. Put on a dust mask, eye protection and a hat, such as a baseball cap. Fold 120-grit sandpaper over in half, and lightly sand down all raised ridges across the entire patch. Sand with the paper flat against the wall, to avoid making angles. The mask, eye protection and hat protect you from the white dust particles that result from your sanding.
- 3
  Scoop up and apply a second layer of joint compound onto the patch, using the taping knife. Feather the compound out a little farther than the edges of the first patch. Allow the fresh layer 24 hours to dry.
- 4
  Put on the dust mask, eye protection and hat, and lightly sand down all the rough spots and ridges across the patch, using 120-grit sandpaper.
- 5
  Apply any additional coats that are needed to bring the recessed spot on the wall level with the rest of the wall. Allow each successive coat 24 hours to dry, and sand the coat smooth, using the sandpaper.

How to Drill Slate

How to Fill a Crack Between Concrete Backers

Wall Repairs