5 Quick Fixes for Common Drywall Problems
1. Nail Pops
What it looks like: Small circular bumps or lifted spots in the drywall surface
Cause: Nails shifting or loosening over time due to temperature changes or building movement
DIY Fix:
- Use a utility knife to scrape around the pop.
- Gently push the nail back in or remove it and replace with a 1¼″ drywall screw.
- Apply joint compound over the area.
- Let it dry, sand smooth, and touch up with matching paint.
Pro Tip: Drywall screws hold better than nails and help prevent future pops.
2. Hairline Cracks & Joint Line Separation
What it looks like: Thin cracks along seams or corners
Cause: Settling, humidity, or poor tape adhesion during installation
DIY Fix:
- Widen the crack slightly with a utility knife to help compound grip.
- Apply mesh or paper tape across the joint.
- Cover with joint compound, feathering out the edges.
- Let dry completely, sand smooth, and repaint.
Callout: If cracks keep reappearing, it could mean there’s structural movement—get it checked by a pro.
3. Water-Damaged Drywall
What it looks like: Stains, bubbling paint, soft or crumbling spots
Cause: Leaks from roofs, pipes, or high humidity
DIY Fix:
- Identify and fix the source of the leak first.
- Cut out the damaged drywall.
- Measure and replace with a new drywall panel.
- Tape, mud, sand, and repaint the repaired area.
Warning: If there’s a musty odor or black spots, mold may be present—this is a job for professionals.
4. Dents and Small Holes
What it looks like: Dings from furniture, doorknobs, or accidental impact
Cause: Everyday wear and tear
DIY Fix:
- Clean the damaged area.
- Fill with spackle or lightweight joint compound.
- Let it dry, sand smooth.
- Apply a primer coat, then repaint.
Quick Fix Tip: For holes under 2 inches, a patch kit can get it done in minutes.
5. Corner Bead Damage or Bulging Tape
What it looks like: Cracked drywall corners or raised tape edges
Cause: Impact damage or shifting framework
DIY Fix:
- For corner beads: remove any loose bead, reattach or replace, and apply joint compound.
- For tape issues: peel off bubbled tape, replace with fresh tape, and mud over.
Skill Check: If working on corner beads feels intimidating, call Legacy Pro—we’re fast, clean, and precise.
Tools Checklist for DIY Drywall Repairs
- Utility knife
- 1¼″ drywall screws
- Joint compound
- Sanding block or pole
- Drywall tape (paper or mesh)
- Putty knife
- Primer and touch-up paint
Ready for Bigger Drywall Projects?
If your drywall needs more than a quick fix, Legacy Pro Drywall and Painting LLC is here for you. We bring 15 years of experience to homes in Concord, Huntersville, Mooresville, Davidson, Cornelius, and Denver NC, and treat every wall like it’s part of our own home. From repairs to full reinstallation and post-finish painting, we handle it all—with your schedule and budget in mind.
Call 704-490-8446 or contact us through the form to get started.
See what we offer in Huntersville and Mooresville too.