Short Answer:
To fix a nail pop correctly:
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Drive a drywall screw into the stud just above or below the pop.
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Set the popped nail slightly deeper or remove it.
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Apply joint compound in thin coats.
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Sand lightly.
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Prime and repaint.
If you only mud over the bump, it will come back. The key is securing the drywall to the framing before finishing.
Now let’s break down what causes nail pops and how to fix them the right way.
What Is a Nail Pop?
A nail pop looks like:
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A small circular bump in the wall
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A crack forming in a small circle
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A screw or nail head pushing through paint
It usually means the drywall fastener loosened from the framing.
This happens more often in older homes or houses that settle.
I see it all the time in Cleveland homes where framing shifts with seasonal humidity changes.
Why Do Nail Pops Happen?
The most common causes:
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Framing movement
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Dry lumber shrinking
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Improper fastener installation
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Too few screws
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Overdriven screws
When the wood stud shrinks or shifts, the drywall fastener can push outward.
The drywall panel moves slightly, and the fastener head becomes visible.
If you used the wrong screws originally, that can also cause issues. Read this if you are unsure:
What Type of Screws Should I Use for Drywall?
Step 1: Secure the Drywall First
This is the step most people skip.
Do not just push the bump back in and mud over it.
Drive a drywall screw into the stud about 1 to 2 inches above or below the popped fastener.
Make sure:
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The screw hits the stud
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The head sits just below the surface
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You do not break the paper
This secures the drywall panel properly.
Step 2: Deal With the Popped Nail or Screw
If it is a nail:
Tap it slightly deeper or remove it completely.
If it is a screw:
Tighten it carefully or remove and replace it if stripped.
Do not rely on the old fastener to hold the panel in place.
The new screw is what stabilizes it.
Step 3: Apply Joint Compound
Once the drywall is secured:
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Apply a thin coat of compound over the screw and pop area.
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Feather the edges out 4 to 6 inches.
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Let it dry completely.
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Apply a second thin coat if needed.
Thin coats are better than thick ones.
Step 4: Sand and Prime
Sand lightly with a sanding sponge.
You are just smoothing the surface, not reshaping the wall.
Prime the patch before painting.
Skipping primer can cause flashing, where the repair absorbs paint differently than the surrounding wall.
If sanding has been a struggle for you, read:
What Is the Best Way to Sand Drywall?
Why Do Nail Pops Come Back?
If a nail pop returns, it usually means:
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The drywall was not properly secured
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Framing continues to move
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Multiple fasteners are failing
In some cases, especially near ceilings or door frames, structural movement may be involved.
If you see multiple pops across a wall, it may be worth checking screw spacing and overall panel stability.
Should I Replace Nails With Screws?
Yes.
Screws hold better long term.
Older homes were often installed with drywall nails.
Modern installs rely on screws because they resist popping better.
If you are rehanging drywall or repairing large areas, screws are the better choice.
How Many Nail Pops Are Normal?
A few over time is normal.
Seasonal movement can cause minor fastener shifts.
But if you see:
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Large clusters
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Long vertical lines of pops
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Repeated failure in the same area
There may be underlying framing movement.
Can I Prevent Nail Pops?
You can reduce the risk by:
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Using the correct screws
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Following proper screw spacing
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Not overdriving fasteners
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Letting framing acclimate before installation
Drywall should be tight to the studs without forcing panels into place.
Good hanging prevents future repairs.
If you are learning how to hang drywall correctly, read:
What Tools Do I Need to Hang Drywall?
Final Advice
If you are wondering how to fix nail pops in drywall, remember this:
Secure the drywall first.
Then repair the surface.
If you only cover the bump with mud, it will come back.
Take the extra minute to drive a proper screw. That is what makes the repair last.
And if you are in Northeast Ohio and your walls are full of recurring nail pops, Colin Can Help handles drywall repair and finishing professionally.