Photo Gallery

Unlike plaster, drywall has a seamless paper covering that rarely cracks or splits. When a crack appears, it is usually on a seam where two drywall sheets meet, and it is easily fixed. 

Outer drywall corners are reinforced with metal or plastic edging, called corner bead. Although this bead is damage-resistant, a sharp knock can cause the drywall compound that covers it to crack or chip off, and a strong enough shock can dent or bend the corner bead. Usually, the damage is confined to a short section that can be cut away and replaced 

If the crack extends through the seam’s paper tape or if the tape has pulled loose from the wall, use a razor knife to cut the tape about 6" to 12" from both ends of the damage (Images 1 and 2). Remove the tape but be careful not to tear away the drywall’s paper covering. Scrape away any loose compound and use a razor knife or drywall saw to expand the crack through the wall surface into the stud cavity (Image 3). Avoid removing solid, well-adhered compound beyond the crack itself. 

Drywall damage that extends across one or more wall studs requires more extensive reinforcement and repair.

We use an electronic stud finder to mark the studs behind the damaged drywall, then use a drywall saw or reciprocating saw to cut away the drywall. Our techs are careful not to cut into or through the studs. Remove as much drywall as needed until we reach studs beyond both sides of the damaged area. Discard the drywall and remove all exposed drywall nails or screws.

A common drywall problem, especially in newer homes, is “nail pops,” or nail heads that pull away from the wood studs and protrude through the drywall tape or paint. This is usually caused by warped wood that was inadequately dry when installed. Although the drywall is rarely in danger of falling off the wall, the bumps are visible and unsightly.