Bumps and Bruises: Common Drywall Issues and How to Fix Them

The interior of your home is a canvas which reflects the style and personality of its inhabitants. But even the most perfectly done paint jobs will get dinged up over time. Drywall, a crucial interior construction element, can encounter various issues, such as dings and dents. In this article, we share the most common drywall concerns and tips on how to deal with them for a clean and polished look.

Nail Pops

Cause: As the framing lumber expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes, it can push out nails in drywall.

Fix: Remove loose drywall around the popped nail with a putty knife. Screw in the drywall, add joint compound, sand and paint.

Dents and Dings

Cause: Common activities, furniture moving, and accidental impact can leave unsightly dents and dings on your drywall.

Repair: Feather the edges with a light joint compound over the damaged spot. Sand the surface smooth, prime with a paint primer and then paint for a continuous look.

Cracks

Cause: As the ground settles and temperatures change, or due to structural issues, small cracks can appear in drywall.

Fix: Cover the crack with mesh tape, layer joint compound and feather the edges. Want to play it cool as you fix the crack? Sand it, then prime and paint.

Corner Bead Damage

Cause: Corners are easily dented by impact or improper installation of corner beads.

Fix: Remove defective corner bead, patch with joint compound, and replace with new corner bead. Feather the edges, sand and paint for a smooth finish.

Texture Matching

Cause: When patching or repairing drywall, the new section doesn’t always match the texture of the original wall.

Fix: Test textures and opt to have a pro even out the texture. Fade in the edges for an overall polished look.

Water Stains

Cause: Standing water or leaks can cause those unsightly marks on drywall.

Fix: Correct the cause of the water problem, let the area dry completely and paint with a stain-blocking primer. Repaint to match the original colour.

Like anything else, if you take good care of your drywall, it will keep looking brand new. Whether it is just a slight nail pop or the presence of a hairline crack, repairing these problems can have an intended long lifespan for your home’s interior and appearance. Don’t let nicks and scrapes on your walls detract from the beauty of your home – with just a few steps, you can enjoy smooth surfaces that complement your style and attention to décor.