Your Guide to Wall & Trim Repair in Grand Rapids, MI
- SJK Handyman
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
The Little Details That Make a Big Difference
Hey, Grand Rapids! Steve from SJK Handyman here. My team and I have seen countless homes where the small nicks, scuffs, and cracks in the walls and trim go unnoticed—or just get ignored. But those little imperfections can really take away from the overall look of a room. The good news? Many of these fixes are simple, and with a little know-how, you can make your walls and trim look flawless again.
I'm here to walk you through how to tackle some of the most common wall and trim repairs. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or picking up a putty knife for the first time, this guide will help you get the job done right.
Common Wall & Trim Issues and How to Fix Them
Let’s look at some of the common problems we see and the best way to handle them.
Scuffs and Nicks
These are the most frequent culprits. A stray shoe, a moving piece of furniture, or even a toy can leave behind a scuff or a small dent in your wall or trim.
For scuffs: Start with a magic eraser or a damp cloth and a little soap. Often, a quick wipe down is all you need. If the paint is chipped, a small touch-up with matching paint is the best solution.
For nicks: A little spackling paste is your best friend here. Use a putty knife to apply a small amount of paste to the nick, smooth it out, and let it dry. Once dry, lightly sand the area until it’s perfectly smooth and then apply a coat of paint.
Cracks in Drywall or Plaster
Small cracks often appear as your home settles over time. It’s a normal part of homeownership, but it's something you should fix to keep your walls looking great.
Step 1: Use a putty knife to slightly widen the crack. This may sound counterintuitive, but it helps the joint compound or spackle get a better grip.
Step 2: Fill the crack with joint compound. Apply it in thin layers, smoothing it out with your putty knife. Let each layer dry completely before adding the next.
Step 3: Sand the area lightly and prime it before painting. This ensures a seamless finish that hides the crack completely.
Loose or Separated Trim
Over time, the wood in your trim can expand and contract, causing it to pull away from the wall. This leaves an unsightly gap that can be easily fixed.
Method 1: Small Gaps: For hairline cracks where the trim meets the wall, a simple bead of paintable caulk is all you need. Use a caulking gun to apply a thin bead, then run a wet finger or a special caulking tool over it to create a smooth, clean line.
Method 2: Larger Gaps: If the trim has pulled away significantly, you might need to re-secure it. Use a hammer and small finishing nails to re-fasten the trim to the wall studs. Then, use wood filler to cover the nail holes, sand it smooth, and touch up with paint.
When to Call a Handyman
While many of these repairs are DIY-friendly, some issues are better left to the pros.
Large Holes in the Wall: Anything bigger than a softball requires more than just spackle. This often involves cutting out the damaged section of drywall and patching it with a new piece, which can be tricky to do seamlessly.
Structural Damage: If you see large, new cracks in the walls or ceiling, it could be a sign of a structural issue. Don't try to patch these—get a professional to assess the problem and determine the cause.
Extensive Damage: If you have a large number of repairs or extensive damage to multiple areas, it might be more efficient and cost-effective to have a handyman take care of it all at once.
Ready to Get Started?
Taking care of the small details can make your home feel brand new. Wall and trim repairs are a great way to protect your investment and keep your living spaces looking their best.
Whether you're ready to roll up your sleeves or need a little help, SJK Handyman is here for you. We serve all of Grand Rapids and the surrounding communities. Feel free to give us a call or visit our website for a free estimate on your next project. We're here to help you keep your home in perfect shape.
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