How to Fix Popped Nails in Drywall

Often we'll see popped nails in our homes. These usually look like nickel sized bubbles in the drywall, or sometimes the nail head will pop through the drywall altogether. Fortunately, these are really easy to fix with common household tools. Here's what you do:

1. First, make sure theres a stud where the nailhead is. About two inches above or below the popped nail drive a wallboard screw through the wallboard into the stud. You'll want to slightly countersink the screwhead just below the surface of the wallboard.

2. With a hammer, gently drive the popped nail just below the drivewall surface. Lightly sand the spots with fine 150 grit sandpaper.

3. Using a wallboard knife (a putty knife will do if you have one) fill the sanded dents with joint compound or spackling. Let these dry thoroughly, generally 24 hours.

4. Since joint compound shrinks as it dries, give them a second application, then wipe with a damp sponge to level with the surrounding drywall. Again, let them dry thoroughly.

5. After the joint compound has dried, you can still level with either a wet but well wrung out kitchen sponge (polyurethane) or fine 150 grit sandpaper.

6. Now you're ready to paint!