Can I DIY drywall repair?

• <div><p>In some minor cases, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-repair-drywall-damage.htm">DIY drywall repair</a> with minimal time and money spent. This method is best when you have a hole made by a singular problem, such as accidental furniture moving, and not a continuous problem, like a rodent infestation. </p><p>Knowing what product to use is crucial. For example, small holes only need spackle, whereas large holes might need a new piece of drywall. You can flex your DIY abilities on this project, but if you’d like a second opinion or have a more significant problem, it’s best to call in a drywall repair pro.</p></div>

Do you need to skim coat new drywall?

• <div><p>If you’re installing new drywall, you may need to skim coat the drywall first for a smooth finish and to allow the primer to adhere to the wall. It’s only necessary if there are imperfections in your drywall due to issues with the studs or improper drywall installation. If you’re refreshing existing walls, you may want to skim coat if there are imperfections across the wall. As an alternative, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/diy-drywall-repair-tips-expert.htm">repair your drywall</a> and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-sand-drywall.htm">sand it</a> for a smooth finish before painting.</p></div>

Get matched with top drywall pros in Craig, AK

Q: Do you sand plaster wet or dry?

• <div><p>While it&rsquo;s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.</p></div>

Q: Can you paint directly on new plaster?

• <div><p>New plaster must be fully dry and cured before painting. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-plaster-take-to-dry.htm">drying time for plaster</a> ranges from 1 to 4 hours, but the curing process can take more than five days, depending on various factors, including humidity levels, temperature, the amount of plaster used, and airflow in the area. You should always apply primer before painting plaster. </p></div>

Q: Can you apply new plaster over an existing plaster surface?

• <div><p>Yes, you can apply new plaster over an existing plaster surface, such as a wall or ceiling, provided the old plaster is in good condition. Before you begin, check the stability of the existing plaster. The surface must be clean, free of loose material, and have no peeling paint. It is also recommended to roughen the surface slightly to promote adhesion. For older plaster, applying a base coat like a PVA emulsion or a specific bonding agent or primer is crucial. This step makes the existing plaster less porous and ensures the new and old layers adhere properly for a smooth, long-lasting finish.</p></div>

Q: Do you need to skim coat new drywall?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re installing new drywall, you may need to skim coat the drywall first for a smooth finish and to allow the primer to adhere to the wall. It&rsquo;s only necessary if there are imperfections in your drywall due to issues with the studs or improper drywall installation. If you&rsquo;re refreshing existing walls, you may want to skim coat if there are imperfections across the wall. As an alternative, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/diy-drywall-repair-tips-expert.htm">repair your drywall</a> and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-sand-drywall.htm">sand it</a> for a smooth finish before painting.</p></div>

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Need a pro for your drywall service project in Craig, AK?

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Bull Moose Drywall

5.0(

)

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He is a very pleasant man, He came in and set his equipment up. He set to work and he works several hours a day to finish the job. He made the place very pleasant for everybody to comes in. The work he did was excellent."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Top Notch Contractors Inc

5.0(

)

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It was excellent. They were extremely detailed with the job. They got it done correctly."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Sunceri did a great job on my condo and finished the job very promptly. He also charged me a fair price and was very professional. I would hire him again."

+48

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

"Happy customer with KO Home Services! Ogi did a great job on my bathroom remodel. He responded quickly to my request for an estimate and came over the next day to scope out the project. His service and work ethic, friendly demeanor, and attention to detail make him my go-to for projects and handiwork. If you are looking for a contractor, I recommend Ogi at KO Home Services."

From old dirty carpet to new bright flooring in 3 days.

from ugly brown tiles to new white ones and added lights in shower

+25

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Paint King - Facebook

New to Angi

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

With years of experience serving the area, we are your solution for all your painting needs. We take great pride in our extreme professionalism, timeliness and superior customer service on every job. We make sure to develop a lasting relationship so that the next time service is needed there will be no question on who to call. Check out our 5 star reviews from happy customers. Call us today! Satisfaction guaranteed!

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Avendano Services, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It was excellent, he's good. He's pretty clean, reliable, and I have no complaints about him,"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They did a great job. They were quick and cleaned up after the job. I am really impressed with how they did it. They completely cleaned up after, they vacuumed before they left. They were courteous ? They did a great job. They were quick and cleaned up after the job. I am really impressed with how they did it. They completely cleaned up after, they vacuumed before they left. They were courteous They did a great job. They were quick and cleaned up after the job. I am really impressed with how they did it. They completely cleaned up after, they vacuumed before they left. They were courteous"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Just Finished

New to Angi

Serving Craig, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Just Finished is a family owned company looking to help you fix up your home or business. Specializing in interior finishes such as drywall finishes, flooring installs, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, plumbing and electrical needs. We do decks and new roofing, siding as well as many other exterior fixes or new installations. 10 years of experience with home remedies and new construction we are here to help you.

Request Quote

Drywall questions, answered by experts

While it’s most common to sand plaster dry, it is possible to wet-sand plaster, too. Doing so can reduce the amount of plaster dust released into the air and make it easier to work in smaller, more delicate areas (such as around wall trim). However, some people find that wet sanding leads to more imperfections, which is why larger walls are more often dry sanded to ensure an even finish.

In some minor cases, you can DIY drywall repair with minimal time and money spent. This method is best when you have a hole made by a singular problem, such as accidental furniture moving, and not a continuous problem, like a rodent infestation.

Knowing what product to use is crucial. For example, small holes only need spackle, whereas large holes might need a new piece of drywall. You can flex your DIY abilities on this project, but if you’d like a second opinion or have a more significant problem, it’s best to call in a drywall repair pro.

New plaster must be fully dry and cured before painting. The drying time for plaster ranges from 1 to 4 hours, but the curing process can take more than five days, depending on various factors, including humidity levels, temperature, the amount of plaster used, and airflow in the area. You should always apply primer before painting plaster.

Yes, you can apply new plaster over an existing plaster surface, such as a wall or ceiling, provided the old plaster is in good condition. Before you begin, check the stability of the existing plaster. The surface must be clean, free of loose material, and have no peeling paint. It is also recommended to roughen the surface slightly to promote adhesion. For older plaster, applying a base coat like a PVA emulsion or a specific bonding agent or primer is crucial. This step makes the existing plaster less porous and ensures the new and old layers adhere properly for a smooth, long-lasting finish.

If you’re installing new drywall, you may need to skim coat the drywall first for a smooth finish and to allow the primer to adhere to the wall. It’s only necessary if there are imperfections in your drywall due to issues with the studs or improper drywall installation. If you’re refreshing existing walls, you may want to skim coat if there are imperfections across the wall. As an alternative, you can repair your drywall and sand it for a smooth finish before painting.

The Craig, AK homeowners’ guide to drywall services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Lyle Hendriks
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Texture Drywall? [2026 Data]
Drywall texture can create an attractive finish and add dimension to your home’s walls. This guide breaks down the factors that influence the cost to texture drywall.
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•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Drywall Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
Installing drywall is the most common way to finish your home’s interior. Use this drywall installation cost guide to see what your project is likely to cost.
Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Whether you want to spruce up a few dents and dings or fix a large surface area, investing in drywall repair costs can return your walls to a smooth, flush look.
Stacey L. Nash
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Plaster vs. Drywall: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Understanding the plaster vs. drywall debate is key to giving your home’s walls the perfect finish. Learn more about the pros, cons, and costs with our advice.
Lauren Bongard
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
Sheetrock vs. Drywall: What’s the Difference?
The terms drywall and Sheetrock are often used interchangeably, but one is a brand and one is a specific product. Find out which one you need in this guide.
Paige Bennett
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Should Drywall Be Butt Up Against a Wall?
Thick gaps and extra joint compound can alter the look of drywall. So, should drywall be butt up against a wall? Review this guide for seamless installation.