What Are Drywall Nail Pops & How To Fix It

Description Of Drywall Nail Pops

Nail pops in drywall are a frequent problem that homeowners face. These small protrusions look like circles on the walls and ceilings, usually sticking out around 1/8 of an inch.

See the below image of drywall nail pops.

Drywall Nail Pops

They are caused by the movement of drywall nails that loosen over time, pushing the spackling compound or joint compound outward. As a result, the nail heads and bulges can create cracks in the paint around them, and they can appear in both horizontal and vertical patterns.

It’s worth noting that nail pops are specific to drywall walls and do not occur in plaster walls.

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Causes Of Nail Pops In Drywall

Nailing drywall can be a perplexing issue for property holders. These unattractive bulges on the divider and ceiling are caused by small drywall nails free from the back studs. Drywall screws are commonly used in today’s modern developments, but many older homes may still have nails attached to the drywall.

Before the 1970s, galvanized steel drywall nails with wide heads were commonly used. In fact these days, some installers lean towards nail to screw. Over time, the wooden pins that hold the nails in place can dry out and lose their grip on the smooth nail shaft. you may need.

Weak wood does not hold nails well, so attempts to re-nail them are often ineffective. To accommodate a popping nail, the nail must be pulled out and replaced with a longer screw or a modern nail with a longer head. A popping nail can be a sign of a bigger problem with the basic decision of the divider, so it’s important to address it right away.

How To Fix Drywall Nail Pops

Here are the steps to fix drywall nail pops:

  1. The first step in fixing drywall nail pops is to locate the affected areas. Look for small bumps or craters on the surface of the drywall that indicate where the nails have popped out.

  2. Use a putty knife or scraper to remove any loose material around the nail pop. This will ensure a smooth surface for the repair.

  3. Use a hammer and nail set to drive the popped nail back into the drywall until it’s slightly below the surface.

  4. Apply joint compound to cover the nail head and the surrounding area. Use a putty knife to spread the compound evenly.

  5. Cut a small piece of self-adhesive mesh tape and place it over the wet compound, making sure it covers the entire area.

  6. Apply another layer of joint compound over the mesh tape, using a wider putty knife to feather the edges and create a smooth surface.

  7. Once the compound is dry, sand the surface smooth and apply a coat of primer and paint to match the surrounding area.

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