Symptoms
- Section of wall visibly pushes outward compared to the rest
- Area may feel loose, hollow, or slightly springy when pressed
- Sometimes paired with cracking around the bulge
Likely causes
- CommonPlaster separating from wood lath behind itOld plaster can lose its key, or grip, on the lath strips and sag forward over time.
- PossibleDrywall not fastened tightly to framingLoose fasteners can let a drywall section bow out slightly.
- PossibleMoisture damage weakening the wallWater intrusion can cause bulging as materials swell or lose structural integrity.
What to do
- Avoid pressing firmly on the bulging area, since it may be loose.
- Tap gently around the bulge to feel for hollow or loose sections.
- For drywall, locate studs and add screws to pull the panel flush if it's just loose fasteners.
- For plaster, small bulges can sometimes be secured with plaster washers and screws into the lath.
- Larger or spreading bulges usually need the section removed and replaced rather than reattached.
- Once secure, patch with joint compound or plaster compound and sand smooth.
- Prime and paint the repaired area to match.
Tools and parts
- Drill/driver
- Stud finder
- Taping knife
Plaster washersSearch: “plaster repair washers”
When to call a pro
Call a plaster or drywall specialist for bulging sections, since improper repair can lead to the section falling later.
Safety
Use caution
A bulging wall section can be unstable; avoid leaning on it or hanging anything from it until repaired.