How to Use Screws in Drywall

Although drywall installation is not difficult, careful attention must be paid to the installation of drywall screws. Improperly installed screws can cause "pops" on the surface of the wall or ceiling after the drywall has been finished and the painting has been completed. The keys to proper drywall screw installation are to make sure that the screws are the correct length and are installed at the proper depth. Also, buy high-quality screws and tools to ensure that your project has the best chance of success.

Things You'll Need

• Drywall screws
• Drywall panels
• Screw gun
• Drywall knife

Instructions

1. Choose which screws you will use based on the thickness of the drywall panels you are hanging. For example, if you are adding a layer of drywall over pre-existing walls, you will need longer screws. For standard installations directly over wood studs, the most commonly-used screw length is 1-1/4 inch.

2. Buy or rent a screw gun. It is vital that drywall screws are installed at the proper depth, so a screw gun is necessary. It will allow you to quickly adjust the installation depth as you work.

3. Mark the locations of the studs. This is not a problem for standard installations over wood studs, as the studs are visible as you hang. In other situations, make sure that you know and clearly mark the location of the studs in order to operate more efficiently and with fewer mistakes.

4. 

   Lift the board carefully into place. It helps to have someone hold it while you use the screw gun.

5. Hold the screw gun over the location of the studs and install screws every 10 to 12 inches. Make sure the heads of the screws do not break the paper surface of the drywall. If they do, they need to be removed and reinstalled properly.

6. Make sure all the screw heads have formed a small dimple. If they have not penetrated far enough, turn them in slightly more. A quick way to check this is to run a drywall knife over the installed screws. If the flat blade clicks against the screw heads, then they are poking out too far.

References

• Habitat for Humanity Guide to Drywall Installation

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish