Is it better to screw or nail drywall?
While nails tend to be more flexible and hold up better against shear pressure—or lateral force—screws have much better grip and tensile strength, which ultimately keeps drywall from pulling away from the studs. When it comes to holding power, screws simply can’t be beaten.
What are the two most common fasteners for drywall?
There are two common types of drywall screw lengths: S-type and W-type. S-type screws are designed for attaching drywall onto metal. Their sharp points make penetrating the surface easier. W-type screws, on the other hand, are longer and thinner.
What is the nailing pattern for Sheetrock?
Drive first nails 12″ o.c. along framing in the field of the board and second nails about 2″ from the first. Fasten the perimeter 7″ o.c. for ceilings and 8″ o.c. for walls. Space screws a maximum of 12″ apart on ceilings, 16″ on walls and at least 3/8″ from ends and edges of panels.
Why are nails popping out of my drywall?
Nail pops are largely due to wood or drywall movement and often appear within a year of construction. After construction, as the wood slowly dries, the studs may shift or twist slightly. This can cause individual nails to move, and when a nail holding drywall moves, it loosens the joint compound covering the nail.
Will nails hold in drywall?
As versatile and durable as it is, drywall is relatively brittle and can’t hold weight on nails the way a wood, plaster, or brick wall can. A nail in drywall alone can hold only a few pounds at most, and even then, it won’t hold reliably.
What happens if you don’t use a drywall anchor?
The threads of a screw into only drywall, without an anchor, will NOT permanently hold in the drywall. It will just pull right back out sooner or later. Even though it may screw into the drywall and “feel” tight, when you hang a picture on it, it will pull out almost immediately. Especially if the picture is heavy.