Drywall projects are among the most common home improvement jobs. But to get the job done right, it's important to have the right tools on hand. Whether renovating an entire wall, putting up a new shelf, or simply hanging a picture, it’s important to use the right type of screws.

Professional contractors know that the right type of screw is essential for achieving optimal results in drywall projects.

If you want to know everything about the screws that are most suitable for drywall jobs, you’ve come to the right place. This article will help you understand the difference between drywall screws and construction screws, as well as discuss why the latter may not be your best choice.

What Are Drywall Screws?

Drywall screws are designed to attach drywall to wood or metal studs. Made from hardened steel with a corrosion-resistant coating, they feature bugle heads that sit flush with the surface and fine or coarse threads for a secure grip. Coarse threads are best for wood studs, while fine threads suit metal framing. They’re typically installed using a Phillips head drill.

What Are Construction Screws?

Construction screws, also called decking or general-purpose screws, are heavy-duty fasteners used for structural tasks like building decks, fences, or framing. They have thicker shanks, deeper threads, and flat or hex heads for strength. Often coated to resist rust, they’re not ideal for drywall, as they can tear the material or sit unevenly.

What’s the Best Screw Type for Drywall?

As the name implies, the screws used for drywall are known as “drywall screws" due to their technical characteristics and design. These screws can come in various sizes and diameters to suit multiple applications.

Drywall screws are designed with threads that bite into the wallboard better than other screws, such as construction screws. This makes them ideal for drywall installation because they are self-piercing and won’t damage the material.

They also feature a bugle head, shaped like the end of a trumpet, designed to leave a smooth, flush surface with the mushroom effect. This prevents the drywall from being damaged when the screw is pulled tight.

Drywall Screws vs. Construction Screws: What’s The Difference? 

When choosing screws for drywall projects with steel framing, professional contractors typically opt for specialized self-drilling drywall screws. These screws are designed to be self-tapping and provide superior holding power.

Typically, they have a bugle head with fine threads and a sharp self-drilling point that helps penetrate the drywall without splitting it.

Drywall screws usually range from 1-1/4 inch to 2-1/2 inch in length with a #6 or #8 diameter. 

Construction screws (decking screws) typically have sharper points and deeper threads than drywall screws, making them better suited for outdoor projects such as decks or fences where extra holding power is needed.

We can also use them for woodworking projects such as cabinetry or furniture building since their deep threads help better grip hardwoods like maple or oak.

Finally, construction screws typically come in 1-1/2 inch to 4-inch lengths with either #8 or #10 diameter heads. 

How Many Screws Per Sheet of Drywall?

The number of screws needed per drywall sheet depends on the sheet size and whether it's being attached to walls or ceilings. A standard 4’x8’ drywall sheet typically requires:

• Wall installation: About 32 screws (every 16 inches on each stud along the edges and in the middle).
• Ceiling installation: Around 36–40 screws to prevent sagging (every 12 inches along the joists).

Make sure to follow local building codes or drywall manufacturer recommendations to ensure proper support and alignment.

How to Install Drywall Screws 

1. Mark Studs: Use a stud finder to mark stud locations.
2. Position Drywall: Fit the drywall sheet against the wall or ceiling.
3. Load Screws: Use a cordless drywall screwdriver, ideally with an auto-feed system.
4. Drive Screws: Space screws every 12–16 inches along studs, applying steady pressure.
5. Set Flush: Screws should sit just below the surface without tearing the paper.

A cordless drywall screwdriver ensures fast, accurate, and consistent installation.

Find the Best Construction Fasteners With Us

At Fastener USA, we offer top-quality construction complements at unbeatable prices — including our selection of professional-grade drywall screws. Our products come in various sizes and coatings, so you can find exactly what you need for any project! We offer fast shipping on all orders in the USA so you can get your project done quickly and efficiently.

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Can I use construction screws for framing?

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