Edmonton Home Repairs: How To Handle Nail Pops In Drywall

Nail pops in drywall are usually no more than an irritating eyesore. However, the presence of nail pops can sometimes indicate a more significant structural issue. Handyman Connection professional drywall services in Edmonton can help solve any cosmetic problems and identify potential structural concerns. 

What Is a Nail Pop? 

Nails pops rear their ugly heads when drywall is loosened from the struts or studs behind it. A pop or crack will form directly under the surface of the drywall or paint. Sometimes the drywall will break totally away, leaving just the nail head exposed. 

Why Do Nail Pops Happen?

Nail pops can show up for several reasons. Any moisture in the lumber used for the home building can shift the structure when the wood dries, and the nails wiggle out. Older homes built without drywall screws will suffer additional nail pops because, after some time, the wood will lose its grip on nails, and they eventually slide out there too. Newer homes may suffer nail pops thanks to drywall hanger panels rather than stud attachments. Nail pops can also result from not having enough attachment points, placing undue stress and pressure on the nails that do attach to studs. Placement that is too far apart can happen when work is completed with haste or with a no-waste mindset. 

What Can Homeowners Do?

Home repairs can be done by homeowners and professionals alike. However, we caution families to call in professionals first to assess if multiple nail pops are present. Evaluating for structural issues, whether or not repairs are made, is best left to professionals. 

What Is the Repair Process?

Some homeowners may still prefer drywall service professionals to repair due to the time, materials, and clean-up costs incurred. When the home is being evaluated, asking for a quote is always a good idea, especially for busy families. After a professional has thoroughly assessed the drywall and structure, homeowners can also follow these nail pop home repairs guidelines.

• Find the nail pop. Usually, the nail pop will find you. Paint will bubble up or chip away.
• Install screws on either side. Simply hammering the nail back in will not repair the pop and may cause more damage. Drill in screws about an inch above and below to secure the drywall closer to the stud. 
• Use a high-powered tilt light to look for additional pops. Others may still occur after securing the nail pop, thanks to the shifting and resettling of the drywall. Give it time to settle and then repair. 
• Use a joint compound patch to fill any nail or screw holes. Wait a few hours. Fill the pits again and let dry for a full 24 hours. 
• Sand the filled area. Be sure to smooth completely and then prime. 
• Repaint the entire work area. Finish the work area with the same wall colour or start fresh.
• Keep an eye out for any future shifts and nail pops. 

What If It’s Not Just a Nail Pop?

Very rarely are nail pops indicative of more significant structural issues. But sometimes nail pops can be a red flag for problems like shifting foundations, at worst. At the least, nail pops may indicate that drywall will detach in sheeted pieces because it is no longer safely a part of the structure. In either of these ends of the spectrum, quick identification of the issue and even faster solutions are vital to preserving the home’s structural integrity. Professional drywall companies can expertly diagnose a nail pop as just a nail pop or as something more concerning. 

Contact Handyman Connection professional drywall services in Edmonton for nail pop repair and more extensive structural assessment to ensure the long-lasting beauty of your home.