What Is a Sheetrock Screw?

Description

• One of the most noticeable differences between a drywall screw and a wood screw is the thread spacing. Drywall screws usually have between eight and 16 threads per inch, whereas wood screws have more. Drywall screws have a bugle head, which means it is flat on top and rounded underneath, and the tip may have a sharp point or a drill point. The most common lengths are between 1 and 1-3/4 inches, and the shanks are typically narrower than those of wood screws. Drywall screws are made of tempered steel and are usually black.

Benefits

• Because they have coarse threads and narrow shanks, drywall screws sink quickly and make small holes in the drywall. When you sink a drywall screw to the correct depth, the bugle-shaped head depresses the drywall paper without tearing it and, because the head is relatively large compared to the shank, the screw holds the drywall securely to the framing. Drywall screws with sharp points bite easily into the paper surface and can be started with little effort, whereas those with drill points are self-tapping and will penetrate steel studs without the need to drill a pilot hole.

Screw Type and Length

• Drywall screws with a self-tapping point are called Type S screws, while those with a sharp point are Type W. When using Type S screws to attach drywall to metal studs, the threads should penetrate at least 3/8 inch into the stud, while Type W screw threads should penetrate 5/8 inch into the wood. One-inch screws are the standard for steel studs, with 1-1/4-inch screws standard for wooden studs when installing 1/2-inch drywall. Longer screws are available for attaching thicker drywall or for attaching multiple layers, such as when you need to hang a new sheet over an existing one.

Installing Drywall Screws

• Drive drywall screws just deep enough so the head makes a depression in the paper without breaking it. You can drive drywall screws with a conventional drill, but many builders prefer to use a screw gun with an adjustable stop that prevents the screw from going in too deeply. Screw spacing is important to ensure the drywall is securely fastened. Screws should be no farther than 16 inches apart on walls and 12 inches on ceilings. It's a good idea to draw lines on the drywall marking the positions of the studs to ensure you drive the screws in the right places.