1. Use a putty knife to apply joint compound over the dent.  Be sure the dent is completely full with compound.
2. Smooth the joint compound with the knife while it’s still wet.  Allow to the patch dry completely to ensure it doesn’t shrink.  If it does, then apply more of the joint compound.
3. Sand the patch lightly, or wipe with a sponge to smooth the area.
4. Apply a coat of primer over the patch.  This is required before painting unless you purchase a self-priming paint.  Check the product’s packaging to be sure.

From beginning to end, this entire project should only take about 20 minutes (not including drying time between coats).  This is, of course, also dependant on how large the dent is you are repairing.

Believe it or not, this is a quandary.  There are more people who have no idea what sheet rocking, dry-walling, or anything else that has to do with that type of contracting is. So, if you’re a home improvement novice and would like to put an addition on to your house (or add rooms to your basement, or create a loft in your garage), follow these links for some how-to’s:

• How to Hang Sheetrock

• Drywall Installation: How to Install & Hang Drywall

• How to Hang Sheetrock or Drywall

• Drywall – Sheetrock: Basic Installation Layout

• Sheetrock and Drywall Finish

Now, the reality of the situation is that it takes a lot of practice to hang and mud sheetrock (or drywall – whatever you’d like to call it). You’re going to hear a lot of advice and techniques from those “jack-of-all” tradesmen that might be right, but they also may be wrong.  If you’re unsure if you can complete this type of home improvement, don’t be afraid to either hire out, or find a class or workshop that will help you acquire the experience needed.