Symptoms
- Small raised bump or circle in the wall or ceiling paint
- Sometimes the nail or screw head is visible under cracked paint
- Often appears along a straight line where studs are
Likely causes
- CommonFastener backing out of the studWood studs shrink and swell with humidity, which can push nails out slightly.
- CommonOriginal nails instead of screwsOlder construction often used nails, which pop loose more easily than screws.
- PossibleHouse settling over timeMinor structural shifting can loosen fasteners along a wall or ceiling.
What to do
- Press on the bump to confirm it's a loose fastener, not something else.
- Drive the popped nail below the surface, or remove it entirely.
- Add a drywall screw a couple inches above and below the old spot into the stud.
- Dimple the screw heads slightly below the surface without tearing the paper.
- Cover the screws and old nail spot with joint compound.
- Let dry, sand smooth, and apply a second coat if needed.
- Prime and paint the patched area to match.
Tools and parts
- Hammer or drill/driver
- Taping knife
Drywall screwsSearch: “drywall screws 1–1/4 inch”
Joint compoundSearch: “lightweight joint compound”
When to call a pro
Call a contractor if nail pops are widespread across many walls, which can suggest lumber shrinkage issues worth a broader look.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.