5 Common Drywall Problems & How To Avoid Them: Tips For A Flawless Finish

There are several common drywall problems that homeowners or contractors may encounter during construction or remodeling projects.

Here are some solutions to these problems:

1) Nail Pops: When nails holding the drywall sheets start to pop out, use a hammer to sink the nail below the surface of the drywall. Then, cover the hole with joint compound, let it dry, and sand it smooth.

Nail pops in drywall are caused by the expansion and contraction of the building materials due to changes in temperature and humidity. As the wood framing behind the drywall expands and contracts, it can cause the nails or screws that hold the drywall in place to become loose and push through the surface of the drywall, creating a small bump or “pop.”

To avoid nail pops in drywall, here are a few tips:

1. Use screws instead of nails: Screws are less likely to back out or loosen than nails, which can help prevent nail pops.
2. Use shorter fasteners: Longer fasteners have a greater tendency to pull through the drywall and cause nail pops. Use fasteners that are the appropriate length for the thickness of your drywall.
3. Check the spacing: Nails or screws should be spaced evenly and no more than 16 inches apart. Over-spanning or uneven spacing can increase the likelihood of nail pops.
4. Use a stud finder: Use a stud finder to locate the framing behind the drywall, and attach the drywall securely to the framing.
5. Minimize humidity changes: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature and humidity level, and ensure that the building materials are allowed to acclimate to the environment before installation.

2) Cracks: To fix cracks in the drywall, use a utility knife to cut the crack into a V shape. Fill the crack with joint compound, smooth it out, and let it dry. Sand the area smooth and apply a second coat of joint compound if necessary.

Drywall cracks can be caused by a number of factors, including settlement, temperature and humidity changes, and improper installation. Here are a few tips to help avoid cracks in drywall:

1. Use the right materials: Choose the appropriate thickness and type of drywall for the specific application. In addition, make sure you are using high-quality joint compound and tape.
2. Proper installation: Drywall should be installed securely and in the correct position. Ensure the studs are spaced properly and are even. Also, consider installing additional backing between studs to support the drywall.
3. Reduce humidity changes: Temperature and humidity changes can cause the framing and drywall to expand and contract, leading to cracks. To minimize these changes, maintain a consistent indoor temperature and humidity level.
4. Avoid over-sanding: Over-sanding can weaken the surface of the drywall and make it more prone to cracking. Avoid excessive sanding and be gentle when sanding the joints.
5. Reinforce corners: Drywall corners are particularly vulnerable to cracking. Use metal corner bead to reinforce the corners and help prevent cracking.

3) Holes: Small holes can be repaired with spackling paste or joint compound. For larger holes, cut out the damaged area into a rectangular shape, and then cut a patch of drywall to fit. Secure the patch to the wall using screws, and cover the seams with joint compound.

4) Tape Bubbles: If the drywall tape bubbles or lifts away from the wall, use a utility knife to cut away the damaged section of tape. Apply joint compound to the area, smooth it out, and let it dry. Sand the area smooth and apply a second coat of joint compound if necessary.

Tape bubbles are a common problem that can occur during the taping and finishing process of drywall installation. They are caused by air pockets or excess joint compound trapped between the tape and the drywall, which creates a raised area or “bubble” in the finished surface.

Here are a few tips to help prevent tape bubbles:

1. Apply joint compound evenly: Make sure to apply a consistent, even layer of joint compound under the tape to prevent air pockets from forming.
2. Smooth out the tape: Use a drywall knife or trowel to smooth out the tape after it has been applied to the joint compound. This will help to ensure that the tape is properly embedded in the compound and any air pockets are removed.
3. Use the right amount of joint compound: Too much joint compound can cause excess buildup and air pockets, while too little can cause the tape to lift and create bubbles. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the appropriate amount of joint compound to use.
4. Avoid overworking the joint compound: Overworking or excessive sanding of the joint compound can weaken the bond between the tape and the drywall and cause bubbles to form.
5. Let the joint compound dry completely: Allow the joint compound to dry completely before sanding or applying subsequent coats. This will help to prevent bubbles from forming due to trapped moisture.

5) Uneven Surface: Apply a coat of joint compound over the entire surface. Use a drywall sander to smooth out the surface, and apply a second coat of joint compound if necessary.

Remember to always wear proper safety gear when working with drywall, such as eye protection and a dust mask.