Common Drywall Issues and How to Fix Them
Drywall is durable, versatile, and cost-effective — which is why it's the standard for modern construction. But it's not indestructible. Over time, environmental conditions, natural settling, or even installation shortcuts can lead to visible flaws. The good news? Most drywall issues are common, identifiable, and fixable when handled correctly.
Here are the most frequent problems we see, what causes them, and the best ways to repair them.
Nail Pops (and Screw Pops)
Description / Likely Causes
Small bumps or circular marks showing through paint or texture are usually nail or screw pops. These occur when lumber shrinks or shifts with seasonal changes, or when fasteners weren't set properly.
Proper Remedy
- Reset or replace the loose fastener.
- Drive a new screw or two nearby to stabilize the panel.
- Re-mud, sand smooth, and touch up with paint.
Cracked Corner Bead
Description / Likely Causes
Corner beads protect outside drywall corners, but when they crack it's usually due to impact, building movement, or poor installation.
Proper Remedy
- If the bead is deformed, it must be removed and replaced — often requiring baseboard removal.
- In high-traffic commercial areas, consider adding a protective corner guard.
- If the bead is only cracked (not bent): secure it with a few screws, skim over with setting-type compound, or install a paper-faced bead such as Ultra Flex over the existing corner.
Joist Shadows
Description / Likely Causes
Dark lines or "shadows" across ceilings that follow joist patterns are often caused by uneven framing, thin drywall, or changes in humidity and temperature.
Proper Remedy
- Improve framing or insulation where possible.
- Apply a coat of BIN primer to help block discoloration.
- Skim coat and repaint for a uniform ceiling finish.
Ghosting or Staining
Description / Likely Causes
Gray or black smudges on walls or ceilings, often aligning with studs, are known as ghosting. This happens when airborne particles (soot, dust, smoke) are attracted to cooler areas caused by thermal bridging.
Proper Remedy
- Correct the source of soot or dust (candles, HVAC, fireplaces).
- Improve insulation and ventilation to reduce temperature differences.
- Clean affected surfaces, prime with BIN stain-blocking primer, and repaint.
Texture Mismatch or Flaking
Description / Likely Causes
Uneven or peeling textures stand out, especially after repairs. They're usually caused by poor adhesion, improper application, or mismatched patchwork.
Proper Remedy
- If adhesion is failing, consider removing the old texture completely, priming, and reapplying — or skim-coating smooth for a modern finish.
- Blend repairs with skim coat and sanding for consistency.
- Seal with primer and repaint for a uniform look.
Sagging or Bulging Drywall
Description / Likely Causes
When drywall panels bow, bulge, or sag, the usual culprits are moisture damage, too few fasteners, or using drywall that's too thin for the application.
Proper Remedy
- Add additional screws if panels are structurally sound.
- Replace sagging sections if compromised by moisture.
- Always use the correct drywall thickness and adequate fastening.
Water Damage (Stains, Soft Spots, or Mold)
Description / Likely Causes
Discoloration, bubbling, soft spots, or mold are all signs of water intrusion — often from roof leaks, plumbing failures, or high humidity.
Proper Remedy
- Identify and fix the source of water.
- Treat any mold and ensure the area is completely dry.
- Apply BIN primer to stained areas.
- Cut out and replace damaged drywall sections.
Tape Peeling or Bubbling
Description / Likely Causes
When joint tape lifts or bubbles, seams become visible. This is typically caused by poor initial mudding, humidity, or building movement.
Proper Remedy
- Remove the failed tape.
- Reapply joint compound and embed new tape securely.
- Block, skim, sand, prime, and repaint for a flawless finish.
Conclusion
Drywall flaws are common, but they don't have to be permanent. With the right techniques — from driving stabilizing screws to priming with BIN to replacing damaged sections — each of these issues can be corrected effectively.
DIY solutions may work for minor repairs, but larger issues demand professional attention to ensure they don't return. If you're dealing with cracked corners, water damage, or persistent drywall flaws, call Seamless Walls & Ceilings. We know how to restore walls and ceilings to perfect condition — clean, smooth, and built to last.
