Drywall repair costs
Cost of repairing plasterboard 2026
Repairing plasterboard costs on average between €300 and €800, depending on the extent and type of damage. Repairing plasterboard includes fixing damage such as holes, cracks, and water damage to walls and ceilings. The price is determined by factors such as the size of the damage, accessibility, and whether finishing such as plastering and painting is required. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of repairing plasterboard and what to look out for.
Table of Contents
- How much does it cost to repair plasterboard?
- Cost of repairing plasterboard per type of damage
- Price-determining factors for repairing plasterboard
- Additional costs and surcharges
- How does the professional work during plasterboard repair?
- How can you save on plasterboard repair?
- Common causes of damage to plasterboard
- Find the best professional for plasterboard repair
- Frequently asked questions about repairing plasterboard
- Book a professional for plasterboard repair
- Useful links
How much does it cost to repair plasterboard?
Repairing plasterboard costs an average of €550, with a range of €300 to €800 depending on the extent of the damage. The price is determined by factors such as the type of repair, the accessibility of the location, and whether extra finishing is needed such as plastering or painting.
Plasterers charge an average of €50 to €65 per hour for repair work. For small repairs, a rate of €50 to €75 per square metre is often used, which is helpful when estimating costs for larger damage.
Plasterboard repair cost overview
| Work | Costs |
|---|---|
| Repairing small holes | €65 to €100 |
| Repairing larger holes | €50 to €75 per m² |
| Repairing plasterboard ceiling | €300 to €1,300 |
The costs for small holes are often lower because these can be quickly restored with filler and a bit of sanding. For larger holes, new plasterboard usually needs to be inserted, which requires more time and material. Ceilings are more difficult to access and often require extra preparation, which makes the costs higher.
Hourly rates for professionals
| Type of professional | Hourly rate |
|---|---|
| Plasterer | €50 to €65 per hour |
| Handyman | €50 per hour |
| Painter | €70 to €130 per hour |
The choice of professional depends on the complexity of the repair. A plasterer specialises in plasterwork and finishing, while a handyman is suitable for simple repairs. If painting is required after the repair, you can potentially hire a painter for the finishing touch.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour.
Cost of repairing plasterboard per type of damage
The costs for repairing plasterboard vary greatly depending on the type of damage. Small holes are the cheapest to restore at €65 to €100, while ceilings and water damage are the most expensive, with prices up to €1,300. Below you can see what different types of repairs cost.
| Type of repair | Costs |
|---|---|
| Repairing small holes | €65 to €100 per project |
| Repairing larger holes | €50 to €75 per m² |
| Filling plasterboard | €50 to €75 per m² |
| Repairing an entire wall | €40 to €60 per hour |
| Water damage restoration | €60 to €75 per hour |
| Repairing plasterboard ceiling | €300 to €1,300 |
Price-determining factors for repairing plasterboard
The costs for repairing plasterboard are influenced by several factors. What you ultimately pay depends on the extent of the damage, the location, the type of work, and when the job is carried out.
Extent of the damage
Small holes from a few millimetres to centimetres are quickly filled with compound and require little material. Large holes or entire damaged walls, on the other hand, require more time because new plasterboard often needs to be installed, making the work labour-intensive.
Type of damage
Water damage requires more than just repairing the plasterboard. Mold must first be checked for and the underlying problem must be resolved before repairs can be made. Cracks due to foundation problems can return if the cause is not addressed.
Location of the damage
Ceilings are harder to reach than walls. Ladders or scaffolding are needed and the work is physically harder because the professional has to work with their arms up. This makes ceiling repairs more time-consuming and therefore more expensive.
Required materials
The choice between lightweight compound and universal compound makes a difference. Lightweight compound is cheaper and dries faster, which is suitable for small repairs. Universal compound is up to 30% more expensive but stronger, which is necessary for larger holes or areas that receive more stress. Materials and supplies cost an average of €30.
Additional work
If painting is required after the repair, additional costs of €70 to €130 per hour apply. Disposing of construction waste also costs an average of €130. The more extra work required, the higher the total price will be.
Urgency versus planned
An urgent job is more expensive because the professional has to adjust their schedule to prioritise your repair. For planned work, the professional can work more efficiently and you pay less.
Weekend
Work at the weekend costs more than during the week due to surcharges. If it is not urgent, it is better to choose a weekday.
Region
In large cities, prices are often higher than in rural areas due to higher labour costs and more demand for professionals.
Accessibility of the workplace
If the professional first has to move furniture or manoeuvre through cramped spaces, it costs extra time. A clear and easily accessible workspace saves on labour time.
Preparation by the customer
If you already remove wallpaper or loose parts and clean the workspace yourself, the professional can start immediately. This saves time and reduces the total costs.
Early intervention
Tackling small cracks or holes early prevents larger damage later. Water damage that is not addressed quickly can cause mould, resulting in a more expensive and complex repair.
Choice of local professional
Local professionals do not have long travel times and can be on-site faster. This keeps costs low and makes planning easier.
Transparency in prices
With platforms like Zoofy, you know what you pay in advance without surprises. There are no call-out charges and you only pay after the job is completed, making budgeting easier.
Additional costs and surcharges
Extra costs depend on the situation, but at Zoofy you do not pay call-out charges.
- For urgent jobs, a surcharge applies because the professional has to adjust their schedule to carry out your repair immediately.
- Work during the weekend is more expensive than during the week due to surcharges.
- Painting after the repair costs €70 to €130 per hour if you want the plasterboard finished.
- Mould remediation for water damage involves extra costs because the cause must be resolved first.
- Disposing of construction waste costs an average of €130.
- Repair kits for small cracks and holes cost €10 to €30 each if you want to do it yourself.
How does the professional work during plasterboard repair?
The repair takes place in six logical steps, from preparation to finishing.
- Preparation: The plasterer protects the room against dust and measures the damage to determine the material and approach.
- Choosing compound: Depending on the size, the professional chooses lightweight compound (dries quickly, easy to sand, for smaller holes) or universal compound (stronger and more durable, for larger repairs and areas with more load).
- Filling: For large holes, a square shape is first cut. The compound is applied with a putty knife and smoothed out. Larger damages receive multiple layers.
- Drying: The compound must cure completely. A hair dryer can speed up this process, especially for small repairs.
- Sanding: The surface is sanded smooth with sandpaper or an electric sander. The edges are 'feathered' for a seamless transition. Some professionals use dust-free sanders.
- Finishing: For extra durability, a self-adhesive aluminium patch can be applied. Then the repaired area is ready to be painted over. The total costs depend on how many steps are needed and whether finishing such as painting follows.
How can you save on plasterboard repair?
There are several ways to save on the costs of repairing plasterboard.
- Prevention: Address small cracks or holes early before they become larger and more expensive. Install doorstops to prevent damage from door handles, which saves on future repairs.
- Preparation: Ensure the workspace is clear and accessible. Remove furniture and decorations from near the wall or ceiling to be repaired, so the professional can start immediately and you save on labour hours.
- Timing: Do not book at the weekend or as an urgent job, as you will pay surcharges. Plan the repair during the week to avoid unnecessary extra costs.
- Combine jobs: If you have multiple repairs, combine them into one appointment to save on labour costs by making more efficient use of the professional's time.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, with no call-out charges and no surprises. You only pay after the job is completed.
Common causes of damage to plasterboard
Damage to plasterboard can have various causes.
Door handle damage
When opening a door, the handle can hit the wall. Over time, a hole or crack appears. This is the most common cause of plasterboard damage.
Small holes
These are caused by nails, screws, rodents, or small household accidents. Early intervention prevents them from becoming larger and the repair costs from increasing.
Water damage
Water affects plasterboard quickly and can lead to mould growth. Water damage often occurs due to roof leaks or plumbing issues around baths and showers. If this is not addressed quickly, the entire board must be replaced.
Find the best professional for plasterboard repair
An experienced plasterer ensures solid work that lasts for years.
- No call-out charges: You only pay for the work itself, without extra travel costs for the professional.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what the costs for repairing plasterboard will be, no surprises on the final bill.
- Quick booking without hassle: Directly choose a time and reserve a professional, without waiting weeks for quotes.
- Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the job is done and you are satisfied with the result.
- Reliable, verified professionals: All affiliated plasterers are verified and have experience with plasterboard repairs.
- Expertise that makes a difference: A professional identifies hidden damage to insulation, wires, and pipes in the wall, which prevents small problems from leading to large costs later.
- Durable result: Poor repairs affect the appearance of your home and can lower its value. An experienced professional prevents this.
Frequently asked questions about repairing plasterboard
What does it cost to repair a small hole in plasterboard?
Repairing small holes costs an average of €65 to €100 per project. This includes filling with compound, sanding, and the basic finish. For an invisible result, you usually still need to paint over it.
How much does a plasterer cost per hour for plasterboard repair?
A plasterer charges an average of €50 to €65 per hour for repair work. This rate includes 21% VAT and labour, but material costs are extra.
What does it cost to repair a plasterboard ceiling?
Repairing a plasterboard ceiling costs between €300 and €1,300, depending on the size. Ceilings are harder to reach and often require scaffolding or ladders, which makes the work labour-intensive.
What does finishing plasterboard cost per m²?
Larger repairs are often calculated per square metre and cost €50 to €75 per m². This price includes applying compound, sanding, and a basic finish.
Can you repair damaged plasterboard yourself?
Small holes can be filled yourself with a repair kit costing €10 to €30. For larger damage or a professional result, a professional is recommended as they ensure a durable repair and seamless finish.
What is the difference between lightweight and universal compound?
Lightweight compound is cheaper, dries faster, and is easier to sand, ideal for small repairs. Universal compound is up to 30% more expensive but stronger and more durable, suitable for larger holes and areas with more stress.
What causes cracks in plasterboard?
Cracks can be caused by door handles hitting the wall, foundation problems, subsidence, or structural stress. Cracks due to foundation problems return if the cause is not addressed.
How do I recognise water damage to plasterboard?
Water damage can be recognised by discolouration, bumps, or soft spots in the plasterboard. This often occurs in ceilings due to roof leaks or around the bathroom due to plumbing issues.
What are the costs for replacing a plasterboard wall?
Replacing an entire wall is more expensive than repairing it because new material and more labour are required. Repairing is often more economical than replacing if the damage remains limited.
Do I pay call-out charges at Zoofy?
No, at Zoofy you do not pay call-out charges. You know the costs for repairing plasterboard in advance and pay only after the job is completed via a QR code.
Book a professional for plasterboard repair
Ready to have your plasterboard repaired? At Zoofy, you can book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You will see exactly what the costs for repairing plasterboard are in advance, and Zoofy connects you with a reliable, verified plasterer. You only pay once the work is finished. Book a professional directly.