Wall and Ceiling Repair Simplified: Clever DIY Tricks

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If you have a water-stained ceiling, a stain-blocking primer is mandatory to prevent the stain from bleeding through a fresh coat of paint. You could roll on primer, but there are two spray-can products you should consider first: Kilz Upshot and Zinsser Covers Up are both stain-blocking primers, and both have nozzles that shoot upward—perfect for ceiling work. Upshot is tinted to match aged, unpainted ceiling texture. Covers Up is a lighter shade of off-white. So if you’re lucky, the primer will blend in and you won’t have to paint the whole ceiling.

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Every fix-it guy we know—DIYer or pro—loves selfstick metal patches. Just stick one over the hole and mud over it. Find them in sizes from 4 x 4 in. to 8 x 8 in.

What to Consider When Fixing Ceiling Cracks

There are lots of things to consider when fixing ceiling cracks. If you think it’s a bigger project than you can handle, it’s best to call in a professional. “You could patch your ceiling on your own. However, to achieve a perfectly smooth appearance that blends seamlessly into your ceiling, you might want to have a professional do it,” says Laniado. If you’re considering a DIY approach, to determine which products are necessary, consider the type and location of the damage on your ceiling, the size of the repair area and the texture of your ceiling.

Why You Should Trust Us

In addition to gathering tips from various Family Handyman editors, we sought advice from Ezra Laniado, founder of Landmark Construction Crew Inc. With an engineering degree from USC and a passion for construction, Laniado specializes in building energy-efficient homes that are cost-effective to maintain. His meticulous attention to detail sets his company apart and positions him as an authority on products for addressing ceiling repair cracks.

How We Found the Best Wall and Ceiling Repair Solutions

We researched various ceiling issues and identified the best products for addressing them. Our selection criteria focused on finding solutions that were simple to use and effective. Additionally, we consulted with a carpenter to ensure comprehensive coverage of wall and ceiling repair essentials. Lastly, we analyzed user reviews to provide insights into real-world experiences with these products.

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