My Ceiling Nails Are Sagging

Reasons for Sagging Nails

• Sagging ceiling nails, also referred to as nail pops, indicate a loosening of a drywall nail from its place in the ceiling or wall. Numerous sagging ceiling nails can mean sagging ceiling drywall requires refastening, while nails that protrude only slightly may require only a re-dimpling below the surface. Nails that protrude shortly after ceiling drywall installation are often the result of building settling and structural movement. Extreme weather, such as extra-frigid winters or rainy springs, can also result in nail pops.

Repair Preparation

• Since repairing sagging ceiling nails often requires the use of a hammer, it is best to remove all pictures, ceiling hangings, photos, artwork, shelf and table items in the room where you will be making the repairs as well as nearby rooms. Hang damp sheets over doorways to avoid spreading drywall dust to the rest of the home. Place an exhaust fan in one of the room's windows as well. Vibrations from hammering can knock items from walls or cause items on shelves and tables to fall, resulting in item damage ranging from mild to severe. Place all items in a safe area far away from where you will be working for best results.

Nail Refastening

• Repair nails that protrude only slightly from your ceiling by removing the nail with the claw back of your hammer or a Cat's Paw tool. Use either of these tools only if the nail has protruded enough from the ceiling surface to disrupt the joint compound covering the nail. Remove any rusted nails as well; rusted nails can indicate water leaks. Use a paint stirring stick under either tool while removing the nail to to protect your ceiling during nail removal. Once the nail is removed, use a drill driver that features a dimpling bit or magnetic drive guide to place a 1 3/8-inch drywall screw or drywall nail into the nail hole. If using nails, dimple them 1/8-inch below the ceiling surface with a drywall or claw hammer.

Job Completion

• Finish the repair by using a putty knife to remove loose or cracked material from the ceiling; use a duster to remove fine debris. Use a 6-inch taping knife to apply joint compound to the ceiling to cover screws or to fill in dimpled nail areas. Allow it to dry and then apply a second coat of compound and allow it to dry. Use fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth and even surface, and wipe all dust off your ceiling with a towel or wiping cloth before priming and painting as desired.