Skip to Content

Are Drywall Screws Strong?

are drywall screws strong

If you need to fasten a full drywall or a portion of it to a ceiling hoist or any other similar element, a drywall screw is the best thing to use.

If you are a DIY enthusiast, you probably know a little about drywall screws.

However, if you don’t know about drywall screws or their suitability for various woodworking projects, we will be discussing how strong these screws and the different uses they can be put to.

Also, we will talk about what length and thread of drywall screws are suitable for different purposes.

Furthermore, we will compare these drywall screws to the traditional wood screws and examine their respective characteristics.

Length

The length of drywall screws determines the thickness of drywall it can be used for.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links which will take you to online retailers that sell products and services. If you click on one and buy something, I may earn from qualifying purchases. See my Affiliate Disclosure for more details.

However, unlike some other walls and building materials, drywalls have common standard thicknesses.

For these different drywall thicknesses, there are different drywall screw lengths suitable.

If you have a ¼-inch drywall, then 1-inch to 1 ¼- inch drywall screws should be used.

For 1/2-inch drywalls, you can use any between 1 ¼  screws and 1 ⅝ drywall screws.

Finally, if what you have is a ⅝ inch drywall, use 1 ⅝ inch drywall screws or 2 inch drywall screws.

It is very important that you use the appropriate length of screws for any thickness of drywall you have, if you want the screws to perform their function properly.

Drywalls are quite easy to install, and if you are quite handy you should find them easy to install.

However, make sure you use the appropriate length of drywall screws for the right thickness of drywall.

Threads

This is another factor that affects the functionality of drywall screws, and you have to consider this when buying them.

They come with two different thread types – coarse and fine.

Because screws with coarse threads are self-threading, they work better with metal studs. Screws with fine thread, on the other hand, are best for wood studs.

The thread type doesn’t necessarily determine the strength of a screw, but it does affect the type of stud you use it for.

Just like you need to use the right length for the right thickness of drywall, you must use the right thread for the right stud type.

A coarse thread is not really suited for wood studs and likewise, a fine thread is not the best option when you have a metal stud.

Gauge

This refers to the diameter size of a drywall screw.

There are two common classifications in terms of gauge when it comes to drywall screws; #6 drywall screws and #8 drywall screws.

The smaller gauge number (6) has a smaller diameter, while the higher gauge one (8) has a larger diameter.

To be precise, 6 gauge screws have a dimension of 0.1380-inch, while the 8 gauge screws have a diameter of 0.1640-inch.

Are Drywall Screws Strong?

are drywall screws strong strength

In all fairness, this is a relative question.

However, drywall screws can be functional when used for the specific purpose for which they are made.

Now, what are drywall screws used for?

They are used to fasten either full or partial drywalls to studs (wood or metal).

These screws are not designed to be used for serious construction work as they are highly unsuited fit that.

Instead, they are better suited for repairs and attaching sheets of drywalls to metal studs and wooden studs.

Most especially in old houses, it is common to experience some circular bumps on the walls, these screws are perfect for nailing these bumps back into place.

To answer the question on whether drywall screws are strong; yes, they are when used for the right purpose.

However, you should know that they are very brittle and can break easily.

Unlike some other nails and screws, drywall screws can snap easily instead of breaking, and when you use them for heavy construction purposes, they will most likely break.

When the head of the screw breaks, it leaves the shaft embedded in the wood with no way to remove it.

Typically a screw extractor is used to remove screws, but if the head breaks off, an extractor would not be enough to remove it.

Drywall Screws or Traditional Screws

Among DIY enthusiasts, drywall screws have become very popular.

How do they really fare when compared to traditional screws?

Traditional screws are the best type of screws for holding two pieces of wood together, so in general, it is best to use the traditional ones for woodworking.

Wood screws are not threaded right under the head like drywall screws.

This makes them more effective in holding two pieces of wood together.

Also, these wood screws come with different head types whereas drywall screws come with a bulge or flat head.

When it comes to the ease of use, drywall screws are easier to use than wood screws, as they only require  a cordless drill and a countersink drill bit to install.

Furthermore, they are  self-starting as a result of the sharp pointed tips; this makes them easier to screw in than most wood screws that require you to make a pilot hole before fixing the screw.

They are also more suitable for simple indoor and outdoor projects that do not require much security, and they will remain functional as long as they are properly installed.

Try to avoid drywall screws when engaging in serious construction work.

Conclusion

Drywall screws are not too strong, instead, they are quite brittle and they can break quite easily.

However, when you use them for simple construction tasks, they can be very functional. To answer the question “are drywall screws strong?”

The answer is yes, they are strong, but only when used for the right purposes.

When you use them for serious construction work, they won’t be able to hold wood together and they will break easily.

You should also know that when driving drywall screws, you need to be careful.

A cordless drill that has adjustable speed and a clutch can easily do this job.

You don’t necessarily have to get a dedicated drywall screwgun.

Here are some good dry wall screws that are a great option (Amazon link).