Nail pops in drywall are a fairly common repair for homeowners. They are especially common on stairwells and walls beneath stairs. But don’t worry; it’s an easy fix, here’s how:

  1. Begin by digging out the old nail or screw with a knife or pair of pliers.
  2. Next, install new drywall screws above and/or below the old holes so they are just slightly below the drywall surface.
  3. Fill all recesses with drywall joint compound, layering on more as each coat dries.
  4. If the surrounding drywall is textured you can match it by dabbing a scrap of carpet onto the fresh compound to feather it out and match the surrounding wall.
Editorial Contributors
Joe Truini

Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

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