Nail pops are a common problem in homes that have drywall or plaster walls. They occur when the head of a nail or screw that was used to attach the drywall or plaster to the underlying framing or sheathing pops out, creating a noticeable bulge or bump on the wall.
How Nail Pops Occur
There are several reasons why nail pops can occur. One of the most common is that the wood framing or sheathing beneath the drywall or plaster may have dried out and shrunk, causing the nail or screw to pull away from the wall. Another common cause is the settling of a new house, which can put pressure on the nails or screws holding up the drywall.
Nail pops can also be caused by improper installation. If the nails or screws were not driven incorrectly or were not long enough, they may not have been able to hold the drywall or plaster securely in place.
While nail pops may seem like a minor cosmetic issue, they can actually indicate a more serious problem with the structure of your home. If left untreated, they can cause cracks to form in the drywall or plaster, which can weaken the overall structure of your walls and ceilings.
How to Know When a Nail Pop is a Foundation Problem
While nail pops are often caused by issues with the drywall or plaster installation, they can also be a sign of underlying foundation issues. When a foundation shifts or settles, it can cause the framing and walls of the structure to move as well, which can pull nails and screws out of place.
In addition to nail pops, other signs of foundation issues include cracks in the walls or foundation, uneven floors, doors and windows that won’t close properly, and a leaning or bowing chimney.
It’s best to get a Free Foundation Inspection to do a thorough analysis by a professional like RhinoLift. Our foundation repair specialists can determine the underlying cause of the problem and recommend the best course of action for fixing it.
In some cases, foundation problems can be addressed through simple repairs such as adding more support to the foundation or fixing drainage issues around the property. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to install piers or underpinning to stabilize the foundation and prevent further damage.
Ignoring Nail Pops
Ignoring foundation problems can lead to serious structural issues and can compromise the safety and stability of your home. In fact, as we’re sure you’re aware, it will also cause a severe drop in the value of your home, void the sale of your home or make it impossible to get financed traditionally without being repaired.
Time is not on your side as the longer a problem is left unattended, the more comprehensive (and expensive) your solution will become. If you notice nail pops in your home, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.