How to Fix Protruding Studs in Drywall

Protruding studs are a common issue in homes that have drywall. As the wood in the studs dries out, the nails come loose and pop, creating a bump in the wall. The fix is easy, but does require dedicating some time to touching up the paint. Once completed, it will be impossible to see the area where the nails popped out of the studs. Although fixing popped nails is not as dusty as hanging new drywall, there is some sanding involved, which creates dust. Minimize your exposure by opening a window and wearing a dust mask while you sand.

Pencil
Drywall nails
Hammer
Patching plaster
Wide putty knife
150-grit sandpaper
Paint
Brush

Instructions

- 1
  Mark a spot 2 inches above and below the popped nail with a pencil. You will be adding additional nails here to secure the drywall to the stud.
- 2
  Drive a nail in each of the spots you marked, using a hammer to pound until a small dimple forms as the nail head sinks below the surface of the drywall. Sinking the nails below the drywall allows you to add patching plaster and sand the area smooth, creating a seamless surface.
- 3
  Pound the popped nail back into place with a hammer. The drywall probably worked loose around this nail when it popped out of the stud. Pounding it back in will not help secure the drywall to the stud, that is what the additional nails are for. Pounding this nail back in allows you to create a smooth, professional patch job.
- 4
  Brush away any dust or loose paint you stirred up by pounding in the nails.
- 5
  Spread patching plaster on the entire area, using a wide putty knife. Keep spreading until it is smooth and blends with the surrounding wall. Allow the patching plaster to dry completely before proceeding.
- 6
  Sand the patching plaster with 150-grit sandpaper. When you finished, the patch should blend seamlessly with the wall. Brush away patching dust.
- 7
  Touch up the area around the popped nail with wall paint. Use your brush to blend the paint into the surrounding area so there is no visible line where you painted once it dries. Two coats should provide adequate coverage.

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