How To Fix Nail Pops In Drywall In 7 Steps Like A Pro

Popping the Problem: Smooth Walls Ahead

Ever noticed a small bump in your wall that wasn’t there before?

Wondering why it seems to appear out of nowhere and ruin your interior painting job?

In this post, you’ll learn what nail pops are, what causes them, and the step-by-step process for fixing them like a pro.

By the end, you’ll know how to restore a flawless wall surface and keep those pesky pops from coming back.

If you want professional results without the hassle, call Tribble Painting Company or fill out our contact form today.

What Are Nail Pops?

Nail pops are small, circular bumps you can see or feel on a drywall surface.

They form when nails or screws start pushing out from the wall or ceiling, disrupting an otherwise smooth finish.

While they might seem like a minor annoyance, they can create visible cracks in paint and ruin the look of a freshly painted wall.

This common issue affects both new builds and older homes, whether they’re vintage Colonials in Plymouth or mid-century ranches in Dexter.

Note: Though people call them nail pops, both nails and screws can pop out of place. The method outlined below works for either type of wall fastener.

Follow the links if you want to learn how to fix paint chips on walls or how to fix stress cracks in drywall caused by issues other than nail pops.

What Causes Nail Pops in Drywall?

Most nail pops are caused by seasonal expansion and contraction of the wood framing behind the drywall.

In humid summer months, the framing swells, while in the drier winter months—especially in climates like Michigan—the wood contracts.

This repeated movement gradually loosens nails or screws, causing them to push outward.

If you notice many nail pops throughout your home, they could be a sign of more than just seasonal shifts.

While isolated pops are often harmless, widespread or recurring ones can sometimes point to structural issues that require professional attention.

In rare cases, this could connect to foundation problems or other significant problems within the home’s construction.

Tools You’ll Need to Fix Nail Pops

Having the right tools on hand will make repairing nail pops much easier and ensure a quality finish.

You’ll need:

• Scraper or painter’s tool to clear old joint compound from the nail or screw head
• Screw gun for tightening screws
• 1 1/4″ coarse-thread drywall screws to secure the area above and below the original fastener
• Hammer for re-seating nails (if applicable)
• Mud pan and spackling blade for applying patch material
• Patching material such as a quick-drying hardener mix or a pre-mixed option from a paint store
• Medium-fine grit sanding sponge for smoothing the patched area

How to Fix Nail Pops in Drywall

1. Scrape the Nail or Screw Head

Use a scraper or painter’s tool to remove loose drywall mud covering the nail or screw.

This exposes the fastener so you can work with it.

2. Secure the Original Fastener

If it’s a screw, use a screw gun to slightly loosen and then re-tighten it back into the wood stud.

If it’s a nail, gently hammer it back into place, taking care not to damage the surrounding drywall.

3. Add Extra Screws for Stability

Place one drywall screw about an inch above and one an inch below the original fastener.

This reinforcement helps prevent the nail pop from returning to the same spot.

4. Check for a Flat Surface

Run your hand over the area to ensure none of the screw heads are sticking out.

Everything should be slightly dimpled below the surface for patching.

5. Apply the Patch

Fill the holes with your chosen patching product.

For faster results, use a product with a hardener that sets in about 20 minutes.

Leave a slight mound over the hole so you can sand it flush later.

6. Sand the Area Smooth

Once the patch is dry, use a sanding sponge to feather out the edges and create a seamless blend with the surrounding wall.

Run your hand over it again to check for bumps or uneven spots.

7. Prime and Paint

After sanding, prime the patched area to seal it before painting.

This ensures the repair blends perfectly with the rest of the wall.

Follow the link to learn how to repair wall paint after patching.

When Nail Pops Might Mean Something More Serious

For most homeowners, nail pops are simply a maintenance task that comes with drywall.

However, if you see many nail pops forming quickly or across multiple rooms, it could be a sign of more significant structural problems.

Persistent pops, cracks radiating from fasteners, or shifting in door and window frames—especially in older Novi or Ypsilanti homes—might indicate foundation issues or framing movement that needs professional attention.

If these symptoms appear, contact a professional to inspect and address the root cause before repairing the damage.

Say Goodbye to Nail Pops and Hello to Flawless Walls with Tribble Painting Company

Now you know exactly how to fix nail pops and prevent them from ruining your freshly painted walls.

With the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, your drywall can look as smooth as the day it was installed.

For homeowners in Milan, Northville, or anywhere in our service areas who want seamless repairs and a flawless paint finish, our expert painters can handle every step—from repairing imperfections to delivering a flawless final coat.

Tribble Painting Company is ready to make your walls look brand new and your home’s interior shine.