Breaking Down Drywall Repair Cost by Damage Type

Wondering why your neighbor paid $100 for drywall repair while you got a quote for $500? It all comes down to the drywall repair cost by damage type. Whether it’s a nail hole, a massive water-stained patch, or a spiderweb of ceiling cracks, not all drywall damage is created equal—and neither is the price tag.

In this guide, we’ll break down how the type and extent of damage directly affect drywall repair costs. Whether you're budgeting for a quick fix or a more complex project, this post will help you understand where your money is going.

Small Holes and Dings: The “Quick Fix” Range

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

These are your nail pops, screw holes, or minor dents from furniture. They look harmless but can still be annoying to fix properly.

Why the cost can still feel high:

• Most pros have a minimum service fee (usually $100–$150).

• The process still includes patching, sanding, priming, and painting.

• Blending paint for a smooth finish takes time.

Tip: If you’ve got several small spots, bundle them in one service call—it’s more cost-effective.

Medium-Sized Holes: Fist-Sized or Larger

Estimated Cost: $150–$300

Got a hole from an accidental impact—like a doorknob or elbow? These mid-size holes usually require:

• Cutting out the damaged section

• Inserting a drywall patch

• Taping and mudding the seams

• Sanding and repainting

Drywall repair cost here climbs because the repair isn’t cosmetic—it requires structure and blending. If your wall has a textured finish, that adds even more to the final bill.

Large Holes and Panel Replacements

Estimated Cost: $300–$700+

When the hole exceeds 1–2 feet or spans across multiple studs, it’s no longer a patch job—it’s partial wall replacement. This happens after:

• Kids roughhousing (yeah, it happens)

• Plumbing access or electrical upgrades

• Accidental foot-through-the-wall situations in attics

Labor costs go up here because the repair might involve:

• Rebuilding part of the wall or ceiling

• Retexturing the surface to match existing finish

• Repainting a larger area

At San Diego Home Remodeling, we recommend addressing larger drywall damage quickly. Waiting too long can lead to even bigger repairs (and expenses).

Water Damage: The Silent Budget Killer

Estimated Cost: $250–$1,000+

Here’s where costs start to spike—drywall repair from water damage is often more complicated than it looks.

Why it costs more:

• Wet drywall needs to be completely replaced, not just patched.

• There’s a risk of mold, which may require remediation.

• Insulation behind the wall may also need replacement.

• Water stains usually require full primer, sealant, and repainting.

If you’re dealing with a bathroom leak or roof damage, make sure the source of the water is fixed first—or you'll be paying for the same repair twice.

Ceiling Cracks and Damage

Estimated Cost: $200–$1,200+

Working overhead? It’s always more difficult—and yes, more expensive.

Common ceiling issues:

• Cracks from foundation shifting

• Moisture damage from roof or pipe leaks

• Tape separation or joint stress

Why ceiling repairs cost more:

• The work is physically harder and more time-consuming

• Requires ladders, scaffolding, and precise taping/mudding

• Ceilings are often textured (popcorn or knockdown)—matching that texture is a skilled job

Pro tip: If your ceiling damage is part of a larger issue like fire damage or roof failure, the repair might fall under insurance coverage. Ask before you pay out of pocket.

Hairline Cracks and Settling Damage

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

Hairline cracks aren’t always serious, but they still mess with your wall’s clean look. These can result from:

• House settling

• Seasonal expansion/contraction

• Minor structural shifts

While the drywall repair cost for cracks is usually lower, some cracks can return if not repaired properly. We use flexible joint compounds that move with your home and prevent future cracking.

Textured Wall Repairs

Add-On Cost: $50–$200

Got a textured wall? Then blending your repair perfectly costs extra. Matching textures like:

• Knockdown

• Orange peel

• Popcorn
  requires artistry and experience, which adds labor time and increases the final price.

At San Diego Home Remodeling, we specialize in seamless drywall texture matching. Whether your wall has light orange peel or thick Spanish-style trowel, we’ve got it covered.

Cost Summary Table

Damage Type	Estimated Cost Range
Small holes (nail/screw)	$50 – $150
Medium holes (fist-size)	$150 – $300
Large holes/panel repair	$300 – $700+
Water damage	$250 – $1,000+
Ceiling damage	$200 – $1,200+
Hairline cracks	$100 – $300
Texture matching add-on	$50 – $200

Final Thoughts: Not All Damage Costs the Same

Drywall repair cost varies wildly depending on the type and size of the damage. A small dent might only cost $100, but a water-damaged ceiling with texture matching? That’s a whole different ballgame.

If you're not sure what category your wall damage falls into, let the pros handle it. At San Diego Home Remodeling, we give honest estimates, clean repairs, and finish the job so well, you won’t remember where the damage even was.

Need more than just a patch job? Our team also handles full Room Remodeling and Painting Services in San Diego to make your home feel brand-new.