How to Fix Nail Pops and Screw Pops in Drywall

Nail pops and screw pops are common drywall issues caused by shifting studs or settling homes. To fix them properly — and keep them from coming back — you’ll need to secure the drywall, fill the divot, and blend the patch into the wall. This guide walks you through every step and tool needed for a long-lasting repair.

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Introduction

Ever noticed a small bump or circle pushing through your wall or ceiling paint? That’s likely a nail pop or screw pop — a cosmetic issue caused when drywall fasteners loosen over time and push outward. Whether you’re prepping for paint or just tired of those ugly bumps, this guide shows exactly how to fix them the right way.

You’ll learn:

• What causes nail and screw pops

• When to use spackle vs. joint compound (mud)

• How to repair them so they don’t come back

• Which tools and materials give the best results

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🧰 Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Tools:

• Utility knife

• Screwdriver or drill

• Drywall knife (4″–6″)

• Sanding sponge or drywall sanding block

• Putty knife

• Stud finder (optional)

Materials:

• 1 ¼” to 1 ⅝” drywall screws

• Lightweight spackle or all-purpose joint compound

• Dust mask

• Paint and primer for touch-up

• Mesh tape (optional for large pops or re-cracking areas)

Pro Tip: Spackle is fine for small pops on smooth walls. For ceilings, textured walls, or multiple fasteners popping in the same spot, use joint compound (mud) for stronger adhesion and better blending.

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Step 1: Identify the Nail or Screw Pop

Look for small circles, bumps, or lifted paint about the size of a dime or quarter. If you press on the area and it moves slightly, or if the paint is cracked in a ring shape, it’s likely a pop.

Nail pops are usually shiny and can be pulled slightly out by hand.
Screw pops may sit below the surface but have a raised ridge or bump.

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Step 2: Remove or Reset the Fastener

Use a utility knife to carefully cut around the popped fastener. This removes loose paper and paint so the patch will bond well.

Then:

• If it’s a nail, remove it completely using a pry bar or screwdriver.

• If it’s a screw, back it out slightly, then drive it deeper into the stud — not through the drywall paper.

Key Tip: Always install a new drywall screw 1–2 inches above or below the original to re-anchor the drywall to the stud. This prevents future movement.

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Step 3: Fill the Hole with Joint Compound or Spackle

Once the fastener is reset or replaced:

• Use a 4″ or 6″ drywall knife to apply a thin layer of joint compound (mud) or lightweight spackle over the hole

• Feather the edges so it blends with the wall

• Let dry completely (1–4 hours depending on product)

Which One to Use?

• Spackle dries faster and sands easier — good for small fixes on smooth walls.

• Joint compound is stronger and better for blending or retexturing larger areas, ceilings, or recurring pops.

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Step 4: Sand and Recoat if Needed

Once dry, use a fine-grit sanding sponge to smooth the surface. Run your hand across it — if you still feel a dip or ridge, apply a second coat of compound.

Repeat drying and sanding until the patch is flush with the surrounding wall.

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Step 5: Prime and Paint

Patches will flash through paint if not primed.

• Use a stain-blocking or drywall primer on the patch

• Once dry, paint over with your wall color — ideally using a roller for texture consistency. Sherwin-Williams does a great job of matching paint if you can bring them a quarter-sized piece of the existing color.

If you’re doing multiple patches or planning to repaint the whole room soon, consider rolling primer across the entire wall for a uniform finish.

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💡 Why Nail Pops Happen — and How to Prevent Them

Causes:

• Seasonal humidity changes

• Settling foundations

• Fasteners that missed the stud or weren’t fully embedded

• Drywall movement due to pressure or vibration

Prevention Tips:

• Always drive screws into studs, not just drywall

• Avoid over-tightening screws — it weakens the hold

• Add an extra screw near the repair to reinforce the area

• Use quality joint compound and proper drying time

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Only covering the bump without replacing or reinforcing the fastener

• Skipping primer, which causes shiny spots or uneven texture

• Over-sanding, which can dig into drywall paper and worsen the repair

• Using caulk or flexible filler, which won’t bond properly to drywall

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💬 FAQ: Nail and Screw Pops in Drywall

What’s the difference between a nail pop and a screw pop?
A nail pop occurs when a drywall nail loosens and pushes through the surface. Screw pops are similar but involve drywall screws. Screws usually pop less, but when they do, it’s often due to improper anchoring or wall movement.

Why do drywall pops keep coming back in the same spot?
This usually means the drywall isn’t securely fastened to the stud or the home is experiencing ongoing settling. Adding an extra screw nearby and using joint compound for a firm patch can solve this long-term.

Can I just hammer the nail back in and paint over it?
That’s a short-term fix at best. The nail will likely pop out again. Remove it or drive a screw into the stud to truly fix the issue.

Is this something I can DIY or should I call a pro?
You can definitely DIY a few pops with the right tools and patience. But if your whole ceiling is riddled with them, or you have textured walls and want a flawless finish, hiring a pro may save time and headaches.

Should I expect more nail pops in a newer home?
Yes. As new homes settle, fasteners may shift and drywall can flex slightly, causing pops. It’s very common in the first 1–3 years and not a sign of major damage.