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## **The Most Common Things That Stick Out of Ceilings**
Before assuming the worst, let’s look at the most likely explanations—many of which are completely harmless.
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### **1. A Nail or Screw Popping Through**
One of the most common culprits is a **nail or screw** that has slowly worked its way down.
This can happen due to:
* House settling
* Temperature changes
* Vibration from footsteps above
* Aging construction materials
Continue reading…
Over time, gravity and movement can cause fasteners from flooring or framing above to push downward until they finally break through the drywall.
**Good news:** This is usually not dangerous.
**What to do:** Avoid touching it until you know whether it’s supporting something above.
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### **2. Drywall Anchor or Old Hardware**
If your home previously had:
* Light fixtures
* Hanging plants
* Ceiling-mounted hooks
* Smoke detectors or alarms relocated
You might be seeing leftover hardware that was never properly removed or patched. Sometimes these objects slowly loosen and become visible years later.
They often look strange because they weren’t designed to be seen from below.
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### **3. A Ceiling Joist Marker or Construction Remnant**
In some homes—especially older ones—builders left behind:
* Chalk marks
* Wire ties
* Small metal tabs
* Temporary fasteners
These were never meant to remain visible but can emerge over time as drywall shifts or thins.
They’re harmless but confusing.
