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Common Drywall Defects and Their Causes

  • Writer: tedpyzyk
    tedpyzyk
  • Feb 11
  • 3 min read

Drywall is a staple in modern construction, offering a smooth, affordable, and durable surface for walls and ceilings. However, despite its many advantages, drywall can develop various defects over time due to installation errors, environmental factors, or structural issues. Here are some of the most common drywall defects and their causes.


1. Nail and Screw Pops

Description: Small circular bulges or protrusions appear on the drywall surface. Causes:

  • Improper fastening of screws or nails

  • Wood framing movement due to temperature and humidity changes

  • Using incorrect fastener length or spacing


    A screw pop can be almost imperceptible on a textured ceiling.
    A screw pop can be almost imperceptible on a textured ceiling.


2. Cracks in Drywall

Description: Hairline or larger cracks appearing on walls or ceilings.

Causes:

  • House settling or foundation movement

  • Poorly taped joints

  • Excessive moisture or extreme temperature changes

  • Improper installation, such as inadequate use of drywall compound


    Hairline drywall crack on textured wall. Cracks are common around windows and door frames.
    Hairline drywall crack on textured wall. Cracks are common around windows and door frames.

3. Joint Taping Issues

Description: Visible or peeling drywall tape along joints.

Causes:

  • Insufficient joint compound application

  • Using low-quality or improper tape

  • Moisture intrusion behind walls

  • Failure to allow compound layers to dry properly

    Delaminated drywall tape that has been removed. The paint also showed poor adhesion likely due to failure to prime and/or a dirty surface.
    Delaminated drywall tape that has been removed. The paint also showed poor adhesion likely due to failure to prime and/or a dirty surface.

    Delaminating tape due to insufficient joint compound. Corners are also a common area for hairline cracks.
    Delaminating tape due to insufficient joint compound. Corners are also a common area for hairline cracks.

4. Sagging or Bulging Drywall

Description: Sections of drywall appear to droop or bulge outward.

Causes:

  • Improper installation with insufficient fastening

  • Over-spanned ceiling joists or improper framing

  • Exposure to excessive moisture, weakening the drywall

  • Use of incorrect drywall thickness for ceilings

    Sagging drywall ceilings are generally accompanied by cracks
    Sagging drywall ceilings are generally accompanied by cracks

5. Bubbling or Blistering Paint

Description: Raised bubbles under the paint surface.

Causes:

  • Trapped moisture or water damage

  • Painting over an unprimed or dirty surface

  • Incompatible paint layers

  • Poor-quality paint application

    Bubbling paint at joint due to water intrusion
    Bubbling paint at joint due to water intrusion

6. Peeling or Flaking Drywall Compound

Description: Drywall mud separating from the surface, creating uneven patches. Causes:

  • Applying compound in thick, uneven layers

  • Inadequate surface preparation before application

  • Using old or expired drywall compound

  • Exposure to moisture or humidity before drying

    Peeling joint compound
    Peeling joint compound

7. Water Damage and Stains

Description: Brownish or yellowish stains on the drywall surface, often accompanied by soft spots.

Causes:

  • Plumbing leaks behind walls

  • Roof leaks causing water infiltration

  • High indoor humidity levels leading to condensation

  • Flooding or prolonged exposure to moisture

    Water damage from a leaking toilet. Drywall damage is often the first sign of a plumbing problem.
    Water damage from a leaking toilet. Drywall damage is often the first sign of a plumbing problem.

8. Texture Mismatches

Description: Inconsistent or uneven textures on the drywall surface.

Causes:

  • Poor technique when applying texture

  • Using different batches of texture material

  • Attempting to repair without blending the texture properly

  • Incorrect drying time before painting

    Texture-matching is often the most difficult part of a repair. Here in SE WI, orange peel, knock-down, and sand texture are the most common.
    Texture-matching is often the most difficult part of a repair. Here in SE WI, orange peel, knock-down, and sand texture are the most common.

9. Mold Growth on Drywall

Description: Dark spots or patches, often accompanied by a musty odor.

Causes:

  • High humidity or excessive moisture

  • Poor ventilation in rooms like bathrooms and basements

  • Leaks from plumbing or roofing

  • Organic material in drywall providing food for mold growth

    When mold is present, it is often found on the backside of the board due to less ventilation in the wall cavity.
    When mold is present, it is often found on the backside of the board due to less ventilation in the wall cavity.

Preventing Drywall Defects

While drywall defects can be frustrating, many can be prevented by following proper installation techniques and using high-quality materials. Here are some key prevention tips:

  • Ensure proper framing and secure fastening of drywall sheets.

  • Use high-quality joint compound and tape for seamless joints.

  • Maintain a controlled environment to minimize moisture exposure.

  • Prime and prepare surfaces before painting.

  • Regularly inspect for leaks or moisture issues to prevent water damage.

If you're experiencing drywall issues, professional repair services can help restore your walls and ceilings to their best condition. Addressing problems early can prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of your home or business space.


Have drywall problems? We can help!


Submit a request or give us a call: 262-235-0639

 
 
 

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