Drywall screws
Drywall screws are black phosphate-coated bugle-head screws designed to attach gypsum drywall panels to wood or metal framing. The bugle head shape allows them to dimple the drywall face paper without tearing it.
Coarse thread vs fine thread
| Thread type | Code | Use | Stud material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coarse thread (W) | W-type | Into wood studs and joists | 2×4, 2×6 lumber |
| Fine thread (S) | S-type | Into metal studs and tracks | 25–20 gauge steel framing |
Using coarse-thread (W) screws in metal studs causes thread stripping. Using fine-thread (S) screws in wood results in poor holding and potential pull-through. Match the thread type to the framing material.
Common lengths and uses
| Length | Panel thickness | Use case |
|---|---|---|
| 1-1/4" (32mm) | 1/4" or 3/8" panel | Thin panels, ceiling patches |
| 1-5/8" (41mm) | 1/2" panel (standard) | Most common — single layer interior wall |
| 2" (51mm) | 5/8" panel (Type X) | Fire-rated assemblies |
| 2-1/2" (63mm) | Double layer | Laminated drywall, soundproofing assemblies |
| 3" (76mm) | Double layer (thick) | Commercial multilayer assemblies |
What drywall screws are NOT for
- Structural framing — brittle under shear load; use structural screws or nails for framing connections
- Deck and outdoor use — phosphate coating is not weather-resistant; will rust rapidly
- Wood-to-wood general joinery — they work, but the brittle hardened steel snaps under impact loads; purpose-made construction screws are more appropriate
Phosphate coating
The matte black finish is manganese phosphate, which improves corrosion resistance in dry indoor conditions and helps the screws grip drywall compound. It is not equivalent to zinc plating or galvanizing and is unsuitable for any outdoor or humid environment.
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