Drywall & Plaster Repair in Boston
Professional drywall and plaster repair for Boston homes. Expert patching, skim coating, and wall restoration for brownstones, triple-deckers, and historic properties.
Boston’s housing stock tells a story through its walls. Brownstones in the South End, triple-deckers in Dorchester, prewar apartments in Brookline — most were built with lath-and-plaster construction that behaves differently from modern drywall. Repairing these surfaces properly requires an understanding of both materials and the specific ways older homes shift, settle, and age.
Common Wall Problems in Older Boston Homes
Plaster walls develop issues that drywall rarely does. Seasonal temperature swings, foundation settling, and decades of moisture exposure create predictable failure patterns. Hairline cracks along door frames, bulging plaster where the lath has separated, water stains from roof or pipe leaks, and crumbling patches near windows are all standard findings in homes built before 1960.
Drywall has its own set of problems — nail pops, joint tape lifting, dents, and holes from anchors or doorknobs. These are straightforward but still need proper technique to repair invisibly.
What We Repair
- Hairline and structural plaster cracks
- Water-damaged plaster and drywall
- Holes from plumbing or electrical work
- Nail pops and screw holes
- Skim coating over rough or patched surfaces
- Plaster reattachment where it has pulled from lath
- Drywall patching (small holes to full sheet replacement)
- Texture matching on existing walls and ceilings
Our Process
We start by assessing the underlying cause. There is no point patching a crack if the plaster behind it is separating from the lath, and there is no value in skim coating over moisture damage that has not been addressed.
For plaster repairs, we use setting-type joint compounds and bonding agents that are compatible with the original material. For drywall, we follow standard practices — proper backing, mesh or paper tape, and multiple thin coats sanded between applications. We match the existing wall texture so the repair does not announce itself.
Why It Matters
Walls are the most visible surface in any room. A poor repair — one with visible seams, mismatched texture, or a bump you can see in raking light — stands out every time you walk past it. In older homes where original plaster adds genuine character and value, improper patching can do more harm than the damage itself.
Get It Fixed Right
If your walls need attention, whether it is a single crack or a full room that needs skim coating, we can help. We work throughout Greater Boston and handle everything from minor patches to full plaster restoration. Contact us to schedule a repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a handyman cost in Boston?
Rates typically range from $75 to $125 per hour depending on the scope of work and materials needed. Smaller tasks on the lower end, more involved repairs toward the higher end. Every job is different, so I provide free estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
Do you charge a minimum for small jobs?
Yes, there is a minimum charge for small jobs. This covers travel time, setup, and cleanup — all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into even a quick repair. Most clients find it's well worth it since I handle the job right the first time, and you can always bundle a few small tasks together to get the most value from a visit.
Can I get a free estimate?
Absolutely. For most jobs I can provide a ballpark estimate over the phone or by email if you send a few photos. For larger or more complex projects, I'll schedule a quick on-site visit at no charge. Either way, you'll have a clear idea of cost before any work starts.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. Estimates are free for the vast majority of jobs. If a project requires significant research or an extended on-site evaluation, I'll let you know upfront. But for standard repairs and improvements, there's never a charge just to find out what it'll cost.
How does pricing work for multiple repairs?
Bundling several repairs into one visit is the most cost-effective approach. Since I'm already on-site with tools and materials, each additional task costs less than it would as a standalone appointment. I'll give you a single estimate that covers everything so there are no surprises.
Do you charge extra for older Boston homes?
There's no surcharge for older homes. That said, repairs in pre-war homes, brownstones, and triple-deckers sometimes take longer due to plaster walls, non-standard framing, or layers of old paint. I'll factor that into the estimate upfront so you know what to expect.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, personal checks, all major credit and debit cards, and Venmo. Payment is due upon completion of the work. For larger projects, we can discuss a deposit arrangement if needed.
Are your prices different on weekends?
No. Saturday appointments are available at the same rate as weekday jobs. I know Boston schedules are busy, and weekend availability shouldn't come with a penalty. Saturday hours are 8 AM to 2 PM.
Do you have experience with historic Boston homes?
Yes, extensive experience. I've worked on Victorians in Jamaica Plain, Federal-era homes in Beacon Hill, brownstones in the South End, and colonial homes across the suburbs. Each style has its quirks, and after 20-plus years I've learned how to work with them rather than against them.
Can you match existing plaster textures?
Yes. Matching plaster texture is part art, part experience. I use appropriate techniques to blend repairs with the surrounding original plaster so the patch doesn't stand out. It takes more time than slapping on joint compound, but the result is worth it in an older home.
Do you work on brownstones?
Yes, brownstones are one of my most common client types, especially in the South End, Back Bay, and Bay Village. I'm familiar with their particular challenges — plaster walls, pocket doors, old-growth wood trim, and the narrow layouts that make moving materials interesting.
Can you repair original wood trim?
Yes, and I always prefer repair over replacement when it comes to original trim. The wood in older Boston homes is often old-growth lumber that you simply can't buy anymore. I'll patch, fill, and restore trim to keep as much of the original character as possible.
How do you handle lead paint concerns?
For any home built before 1978, I follow EPA-recommended safe work practices to minimize dust and debris when disturbing painted surfaces. This includes proper containment, wet methods, and thorough cleanup. If a project involves significant paint disturbance, I'll discuss the best approach with you before starting.
Do you work on triple-deckers?
Yes. Triple-deckers are a Boston staple, and I've worked on plenty across Dorchester, Somerville, South Boston, and beyond. Whether it's a single unit or all three floors, I'm comfortable with the layout and the typical issues that come with these buildings — from porch repairs to plaster cracks.
Can you repair old windows?
Yes. I repair sash cords, replace broken hardware, fix stuck sashes, and install weatherstripping on older double-hung windows. Restoring original windows is almost always more cost-effective — and more historically appropriate — than full replacement. I'll help you keep them working smoothly.
Need Drywall & Plaster Repair?
Get a clear estimate before the work begins. Professional repairs without the hassle.