1 Cost: Drywall Nails vs Screws Installation Speed: Drywall Nails vs Screws 3 Strength and Holding Power: Drywall Nails vs Screws Pops: Drywall Nails vs Screws 5 Final Thoughts There are two choices available for drywall fasteners: drywall screws and drywall nails.
If this is your first task, it could be difficult for you to decide which option is best for your project.
The truth is that screws typically outperform drywall nails in this situation. Even though drywall screws are a little more expensive, certain building rules demand them since they grip better and don’t pop like nails.
Think about the following.
DRYWALL NAILS VS SCREWS: COST
Drywall nails are less expensive than screws package to package. A one-pound box of drywall screws costs about $5, compared to about $3 for a one-pound box of drywall nails.
However, drywall screws can be spaced every 16 inches on the wall, whereas drywall nails must be used every 8 inches. Given this, their prices are comparable.
On the other hand, all you need is a hammer to put drywall nails. More expensive tools are needed for screws.
Going with nails may be less expensive when you account for the cost of a drywall screw gun, cordless drill, or screw setting dimpler.
Conclusion: The cost of drywall screws and nails is comparable. Nails are a more affordable alternative if you don’t have a cordless drill or don’t have the money to buy one.
DRYWALL NAILS VS SCREWS: INSTALLATION SPEED
Installing screws is much quicker than pounding nails since drywall screw guns are battery-powered and feature magnetic tips. Additionally, using a screw gun eliminates the risk of hammering your hand.
A drywall panel needs twice as many nails as screws to be fastened to a wall, even if you are faster with a hammer than a drill.
The winner is dry wall screws, in our opinion.
DRYWALL NAILS VS SCREWS: STRENGTH AND HOLDING POWER
Numerous techniques exist for gauging strength. Although nails unquestionably have more shear strength, grip strength is what counts when it comes to drywall.
Screws have extremely strong gripping power because of their threads.
The panels are fastened to the wall with drywall screws because of their superior grip, which prevents them from sagging or popping out.
Final judgment: Screws come out on top.
DRYWALL NAILS VS SCREWS: POPS
If you’re not familiar, wall pops occur when a screw or nail slips and emerges from the stud. You see a ding in your wall when this occurs.
Sadly, nail pops occur significantly more frequently than screw pops. This is so because screws have stronger gripping powers and are therefore more likely to remain in place when exposed to high humidity levels or shifting foundations.
In conclusion, screws are preferable since they pop less.
LAST THOUGHTS In practically every manner, screws are superior to drywall nails. They are not only comparable in price, but they can be installed considerably more quickly and have a lot stronger grip.
While the majority of drywall contractors now only use screws, a small number continue to work with both screws and nails. Choose screws if you’re installing drywall as a home repair project.
