Drywall screws or nail: Two things are used most often when hanging drywall, and these are nails and screws. Both of these have been used for many years to frame buildings, but they’re not the same. Most professionals would now use screws instead of nails.
The following is why, in greater detail and easier words.
1. Holding Strength- Drywall screws:
Screws hold better than nails. When you set a screw in a wall stud (the wooden structure behind the drywall), it grips snugly and never moves. Nails tend to loosen after some time, particularly if there’s wall or house movement (such as from vibrations, doors banging, or settling).
- Screws: Remains tight, minimizes movement, keeps sagging away.
- Nails: May pop out over time, leading to noticeable bumps referred to as “nail pops.”
Nail pops are a frequent issue in older homes, where you might notice small circles or bumps under the paint or drywall. They occur due to nails beginning to back out of the wall.
2. Drywall Damage:
Drywall is constructed of a soft substance known as gypsum, which has a paper coating. If you’re not cautious, it’s simple to crack or dent the drywall by driving in a nail, particularly if you strike it too forcefully. Screws are simpler to manage and insert more cleanly.
- Screws: Less likely to damage the drywall.
- Nails: Can create cracks, dents, or even break the drywall if used improperly.
This matters because compromised drywall requires more patching prior to painting or finishing the wall.
3. Installation Convenience:
Nails tend to be faster to install when you’re utilizing a hammer or nail gun. That’s the reason why before power drills came into use, nails were preferred. But these days, screws are easier to install than ever with electric drills or screw guns.
- Nails: Quicker by hand or nail gun but more difficult to remove or set.
- Screws: Slightly slower but more precise and simpler to correct if you goof.
With screws, you can back one out and reset it without harming the drywall. With nails, removing one usually rips the drywall surface.
4. Long-Term Durability:
Houses settle a bit over time. Screws work better under such circumstances. Nails are more yielding, and sometimes this makes them loose.
- Screws: Remain in place even after years.
- Nails: More likely to work themselves out.
That is why contractors use screws for long-term effects.
5. Ceiling Installations:
When applying drywall to ceilings, screwing becomes even more essential. Drywall installed on the ceiling must counteract gravity, and nails would have a high probability of spreading out and allowing the drywall to sag or drop eventually.
- Ceiling screws: Tighter grip, secure, durable.
- Nails for ceilings: Nail pops and sag risk.
6. Combination Usage:
Other times, individuals will use a combination of the two. They will nail only to hold the drywall momentarily in place and then screw into it to make it solid. This can do the job faster without losing integrity.
Final Thoughts:
Historically, the norm for hanging drywall was nails. But now, screws are obviously the way to go. They’re better at holding, don’t damage as much, are quicker to repair if you screw up, and won’t work themselves loose hundreds of times sooner.
Nails can still be used in certain situations, such as for temporary fixes or small-scale work. However, for all but the most minor drywall jobs—particularly ceilings or permanent installations—drywall screws are the smarter, more modern choice. They can take a bit longer to fit, but it’s worth it: smoother walls, less repair work, and a more professional finish.
FAQ For Should You Use Drywall Screws or Nails?
Q: Are nails or screws preferable for drywall?
A: Screws are better because they hold tighter and less likely to pop out in the long run.
Q: Better to hang things with screws or nails?
A: Screws are better for hanging things—they’re stronger and hold better, especially in walls.
Q: What are the benefits of drywall screws?
A: Drywall screws hold better, do less damage, remain in longer, and are easier to remove or adjust.
Q: Is it preferable to drive screws into studs or drywall?
A: Always drive screws into studs if possible—they’re more secure and can support heavier weight than drywall alone.
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