How to Reduce Your Handyman Costs On Your Drywall Repair

Did things get a little heated up during the big game and somehow a hole the size of someone's head was left behind in your wall? So much for telling the kids that there is no wrestling in the house! If this sounds like your home and you assume it would be cheaper to hang a piece of art in a peculiar spot rather that hire a handyman, think again! You may be quite surprised at how inexpensive you can get that repair done with a few helpful tips.

Sure, your buddy may be telling you that he can fix the hole that magically appeared but if you want repairs done right, you should leave it to a handyman. Drywall repair is a whole lot easier when you have the proper tools. Not to mention, using inferior tools will result in unsatisfactory work which takes away from the value of your home. Even a small blemish can quickly become a focal point in a room and chances are, you will end up having to hire a handyman to fix it eventually so you may as well just do it right the first time.

Someone who specializes in handyman services is considered a Jack of all trades. They can pretty much handle a full menu of projects and repairs around the house so your drywall repair is just a walk in the park.

If you only have that one hole to be repaired in your drywall, great! However, if you are paying a handyman to come to your home, you may as well make a list of all things that could use attention. You are better to handle everything at once rather than bring him back at another time.

Keep in mind that a handyman can only handle projects they are licensed for. Also, they are skilled in a lot of areas but don't necessarily specialize in some of them so while your handyman will be fully capable of repairing a leaky faucet, if you have serious plumbing issues, it may end up costing you less to hire a licensed plumber who can evaluate and repair the problem faster.

If you are hiring a handyman to repair that hole, you may as well evaluate if you need stairway railings, fencing or trim repaired. Could you use weatherstrips around your windows and doors while you have a professional there to do it for you?

Get Estimates

Some handyman services are billed by the hour, others are by the project. It is a good idea to find out what is included in the price. If you are being charged for materials, you can save yourself a bit of money by purchasing these supplies yourself. You should also make sure you are comparing apples to apples with quotes. While the price for one handyman may be substantially less, their quote may only cover the repair while the other handyman may be charging for painting and cleanup as well. If you only need the repair handled and you prefer to paint and clean the area yourself, make sure your handyman knows that and your bill may be reduced a bit.

Tools and Materials

There are a few basic materials needed for a drywall repair and you are usually better of paying for these yourself. You may want to check with your handyman first but typically you will need paper or mesh tape, all-purpose joint compound (mud) and drywall screws. You may also want to have tools set up and ready if you are getting charged by the hour so your handyman just needs to arrive and get to work. Some tools that may be needed include a mud pan, drywall knife, finishing knife, corner tool and tape measure.

Keep in mind that the easier you make it on your handyman to complete their job, the faster they will have the project finished and the less your drywall repair will cost.