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How Many Nail Pops Are Normal? 

Have you noticed round protrusions in your home’s walls or ceiling? These nail pops may be signs of foundation damage. Learn more about how many nail pops are normal, the causes of these imperfections, and the proactive steps you can take to safeguard your home. 

nail pop in drywall

What Are Drywall Nail Pops? 

Drywall nail pops manifest as round, nail-sized indentations or bumps in walls or on the ceiling. They occur when the foundation of a home or building settles, which loosens the drywall around the nails that secure the wood framing to the structure. Nail pops are often found in older homes with foundation issues.  

How Many Nail Pops Are Common in Drywall? 

Drywall nail pops, regardless of the number, are not normal. These cosmetic imperfections often indicate underlying foundation issues that require professional attention. Foundation repair experts identify, diagnose, and implement customized repairs based on the root causes of damage. These repairs may include foundation piers, steel beams, wall reinforcements, or support jacks

What Causes Drywall Nail Pops? 

Several factors beyond foundation settlement cause drywall nail pops, including: 

  • Poor initial home construction  
  • Inadequate drainage 
  • Subpar building materials 
  • Natural ground soil settlement 
  • Expansive soil reactions to moisture and temperature changes 
  • Insufficient soil compaction 

Since the causes of drywall nail pops vary, it is crucial to contact a foundation repair expert for an inspection to assess the potential risks to your home’s structural integrity.  

big crack in concrete garage floor

What Are Other Signs of Foundation Problems? 

Drywall nail pops are not the only indicators of foundation problems. Other common signs of foundation failure include

woman struggles to open window

If you observe these signs of damage, contact a foundation repair expert for a free inspection to determine whether your home’s structure is compromised. Taking proactive steps ensures the safety of your home and family.  

Can Nail Pops Be Fixed? 

We strongly discourage DIY nail pop repairs. These types of repairs offer a temporary solution and don’t address the underlying issue. Foundation repair specialists provide the expertise needed to address nail pops and their causes to ensure a permanent solution. Professionals employ foundation piers, wall reinforcements, support beams, wall anchors, and polyurethane concrete lifting foam to deliver effective and long-lasting results. 

Contact a Foundation Repair Expert for an Inspection 

Drywall nail pops can occur in any home, regardless of the foundation type it is built on, concrete slab, crawl space, or basement. Look around for drywall nail pops, wall and floor cracks, floor gaps, doors and windows that are difficult to open and close, and other signs of foundation damage. Regular inspections and early detection are crucial to ensure your home’s safety, stability, and durability while also preventing further damage and expensive repairs. 

Contact Bay Area Underpinning for a free, no-obligation foundation inspection. Our professionals thoroughly assess the foundation and surrounding area and offer tailored recommendations for your home. Remember, drywall nail pops are not normal and should be addressed promptly. 

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