How to Fix Drywall Screws that Popped Through Paper
Gypsum wallboard, or drywall, is the most commonly installed material for interior walls. Drywall screws or nails sometimes become loose and pop through the paper surface, causing a bulge or crack. The problem can be due to improper installation, recent remodeling that jarred the fasteners loose, expansion and contraction of the wall studs, or settling of the building. Popping screws and nails can be fixed easily and quickly with a few basic tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Drywall screws
- Screw gun with No. 2 Phillips head tip
- Nail punch
- Hammer
- Fast-setting joint compound
- Mud pan
- Putty knife
- Mesh drywall tape
- Drywall sandpaper
- Touch-up texture
Instructions
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1
Install a drywall screw into the stud about 2 inches from the loose fastener to secure the drywall. This will draw the drywall tight to the stud and further expose the loose fastener.
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2
Remove the loose nails or screws. Pull the nails with a hammer without further damaging the drywall and remove them. If this is impossible, use a nail punch and hammer to reset the nails. Use the screw gun to remove the loose screws. If the screws fail to come out of the drywall, use the punch and hammer to set the screw deeper into the drywall's surface.
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3
Mix a small amount of joint compound in the mud pan using a putty knife, then apply the mud to the damaged areas so that the mud is flush with the drywall surface. If an area has significant damage, apply mesh tape to the area to strengthen it, then mud over it.
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4
Allow the patches to dry, then lightly smooth them with a piece of drywall sandpaper.
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5
Inspect the drywall patches and apply more joint compound to areas that require additional filling. Re-sand until you have achieved a satisfactory result.
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Tips & Warnings
Most interior drywall has a textured surface. Purchase a can of touch-up texture and apply it to the repaired areas before painting.
Clean the mud pan and putty knife before the joint compound sets. It will be hard to clean if allowed to dry.
Wear a dust mask when sanding the patches.
