How to Fix Nail Pops in Drywall

Nail pops are those annoying little bumps or circles that appear on walls and ceilings. They're common in newer homes but can happen in any house. Here's how to fix them right.

Why Nails Pop

The wood studs behind your drywall shrink as they dry out over the years. When they shrink, the nails stay put, pushing the drywall out and creating a bump. Sometimes the nail head breaks through the surface.

The Wrong Way to Fix Them

Just pounding the nail back in. It'll pop again because the wood has shrunk - there's nothing holding it tight.

The Right Way to Fix Them

Step 1: Drive a drywall screw 1-2 inches above or below the popped nail. The screw should dimple the paper slightly but not break through.

Step 2: Now pound the old nail back in (or remove it entirely). The screw is now doing the work of holding the drywall to the stud.

Step 3: Apply joint compound over the nail and screw heads. Let dry.

Step 4: Sand smooth. Apply a second coat if needed.

Step 5: Sand again, prime, and paint.

Tools You'll Need

• Drywall screws (1-1/4 inch for most walls)
• Drill or screw gun
• Hammer
• Putty knife
• Joint compound
• Sandpaper

Tips for Good Results

• Make sure your new screw hits the stud - it should feel solid when it goes in
• Don't overdrive screws - you want a slight dimple, not torn paper
• Use setting-type joint compound for faster drying
• Two thin coats look better than one thick coat

Preventing Future Pops

In new construction, using screws instead of nails and letting lumber dry before installation helps. In existing homes, controlling humidity can slow wood movement.

Nail pops are more annoying than serious. A Saturday afternoon can knock out a whole house worth of them. Once fixed, prep and paint to make them disappear.