Common Drywall Problems (and How to Fix Them Before They Get Worse)
Your walls might look fine at a glance, but common drywall problems can quietly worsen over time — turning minor cosmetic flaws into expensive structural repairs. Whether you’re seeing cracks, holes, or bubbling paint, here’s what to look out for and how to stay ahead of the damage.
1. Hairline Cracks
Cause: Foundation settling, temperature changes, or poor initial installation
Fix:
Use a utility knife to widen the crack slightly so filler can adhere
Apply joint compound and drywall tape
Sand and repaint
If you’re seeing cracks near windows or ceilings, they could indicate structural issues. Don’t ignore them.
2. Nail Pops
Cause: Drywall nails or screws pushing through the surface as the house shifts
Fix:
Remove the popped fastener
Insert a new drywall screw above and below the original spot
Patch, sand, and repaint
3. Water Stains or Soft Spots
Cause: Leaks from plumbing, roofs, or HVAC systems
Fix:
First, fix the source of the leak
Cut out and replace the damaged drywall
Be sure to check for mold (see our post on Drywall Damage After a Leak)
4. Bubbling or Peeling Paint
Cause: Moisture beneath the surface or poor paint adhesion
Fix:
Scrape off the damaged area
Apply a stain-blocking primer
Repaint with a high-quality, moisture-resistant paint
5. Dents, Holes, and Scuffs
Cause: Furniture bumps, doorknobs, accidental damage
Fix:
For small holes, apply patch compound
For medium damage, use a mesh patch
For larger sections, cut and replace the drywall panel
Bonus tip: Install wall bumpers behind doors to avoid repeated dents.
When to Call a Professional
If the damage is extensive, recurring, or tied to bigger problems like water leaks or foundation shifts, it’s time to bring in pros. At VPD, we specialize in diagnosing drywall issues and fixing them for the long haul — not just the surface.
Dealing with drywall problems in your home?
Let the experts at VPD take a look. We’ll fix it fast and fix it right.
👉 Schedule Your Repair Today
