Selection and calculation of self-tapping screws for drywall

Selecting the appropriate self-tapping screws is crucial when working with drywall to guarantee a stable and long-lasting installation. These screws are made especially to fasten drywall to wooden or metal frames, giving walls and ceilings the support they need.

Acchieving a polished finish requires not only choosing the appropriate screw type but also accurately estimating the quantity required. Insufficient screws could jeopardize the integrity.

What is the difference between a self-tapping screw and a screw?

When trying to distinguish between different fasteners, confusion frequently arises. Despite serving the same purpose, there are important distinctions between the two options:

  1. Screw. This is a product that is used to fasten parts together. Has a head and a shaft on which there is an external thread. It is due to this that an internal thread is formed in the selected fragment, which holds the parts.
  2. Self-tapping screw. This is where the most questions arise. The word is an abbreviation for "self-tapping", which refers to a screw with an external thread and a cap. Due to the design features, it is much easier to screw in such an element.

Both names are included in the list of concepts in GOST 27017-86 "Fasteners. Terms and Definitions," but they are separated out into separate regulatory documents for accuracy’s sake. Consequently, it is best to rely on GOST 11652-80, which outlines the properties of self-tapping screws, and GOST number 1147-80, which provides an overview of screws.

The primary variations amongst products for mending

  • Self-tapping screws can be screwed into various types of surfaces without special preparation due to the sharper and steeper located thread.
  • Working with a screw requires more effort, so in some cases, especially when it is necessary to screw the product into a dense base, preliminary preparation is needed. The technology involves forming a smaller hole.
  • For greater convenience, the screw is equipped with a special tip: it can be sharp, which ensures easy penetration, or in the form of a drill, cutting a passage in a solid structure.
  • Screws have a thread that occupies the entire rod or part of it. The empty area is needed to center the fastener.

Since there are currently many different types of self-tapping screws that are not covered by domestic regulations, the terms "self-tapping screw" and "screw" are frequently used interchangeably in everyday speech.

It’s crucial to concentrate on selecting the proper size and type of self-tapping screws for drywall when making your calculation in order to guarantee a tight, long-lasting fit without causing any damage to the material. A more professional finish and a smoother installation process can result from knowing the particular requirements for your drywall project, such as the screw length and thread type. This will help prevent common issues like overdriving or stripping.

Sizes and types of fasteners for gypsum board

Gypsum board sheets can be installed using a variety of products; however, it is advised to rely on the documentation that is already in place, specifically SP 163.1325800.2014. This standard includes a table that lets you select the best kind of fastener.

Typically, the following goods are utilized with gypsum board:

  1. TN screws. Have a countersunk head measuring 3.5 mm. The length of the rod is selected depending on the situation, the most popular options are 25, 35, 45 and 55 mm.
  2. TV screw. It has characteristics similar to the previous variety, it is preferable when it is necessary to screw thicker elements of the suspension system.
  3. LN screw. Has a convex head and a sharp penetrating end, the length of the rod is 9, 11 and 16 mm. Alternative – screw LB, which acts as a drill.
  4. Self-tapping screws with a press washer. Standard head size – 4.2 mm. When working with plasterboard surfaces, elements with a length of 13 to 25 mm are used.
  5. Butterfly dowel. The head diameter is from 3.5-4 mm, the rod – 5.5 mm.

You should pay attention to the unique designations in the name in order to make an informed decision fast.

What screws to use to fasten drywall to the profile?

The thread is most crucial when selecting fixing products for various materials.

Metal

Due to the good stability and rigidity of the resulting structure, lathing from such a profile is the most common. Because components are used, assembly is quick.

It is preferable to purchase self-tapping screws for galvanized drywall profiles from reliable manufacturers or well-known brands. Products of low quality might be fragile, misaligned, or come with the wrong screwdriver or drill socket.

Products of the following kinds are used to fasten gypsum board to a metal profile:

  • TN 25. This is a standard option used for single-layer sheathing, provided that the board thickness is no more than 15 mm. The material has corrosion protection, so it is suitable for fastening in rooms with high humidity.
  • TN 35–45. This variation is used when working with two-layer structures. The digital marking indicates the length of the rod in millimeters.
  • LN, LB and TEX 3.5×9.5. This type is used directly to connect the profiles together when installing the frame.

The fine thread pitch of fasteners for gypsum board surfaces sets them apart when they are positioned on a metal alignment system. This is the attribute that sets the product apart from competing offerings.

Wood

Special varieties are used for the process because wood requires a different approach and the elements mentioned above will not provide reliable fixation. The threads on the rod are located at a considerable distance, which is their primary distinction from self-tapping screws for metal. A larger step guarantees better retention without unscrewing and the preservation of the structure of potentially crumbling wooden elements.

It is considered that steel is required and that the product is phosphated. Corrosion is avoided in this way. These drywall screws can be installed with standard screwdriver attachments that have the necessary depth because they have a countersunk head with a Phillips slot.

It is decided to use products with dimensions of 3.5 * 35/45 mm to fix one layer of gypsum board. The screws need to be inserted deeper than the thickness of the sheet that is being installed.

Remember that wooden frame fasteners are distinguished by their gray-black color, though they can also be found in white and yellow.

How many screws are needed for a sheet of drywall

Determining the quantity of material needed is an essential step in the preparation process. You can employ a variety of techniques to get precise data:

  • Depending on how many fasteners are needed per square meter. For this, the consumption of screws per 1 m2 of drywall is determined. Many manufacturers indicate such data on boxes with fasteners. The standard rate for screws is 20-25 pieces. Based on this, the work area is measured, the area is determined and multiplied by the available indicator. So, with a wall area of ​​15 sq.m, approximately 375 pieces will be required. (15 * 25).
  • It is necessary to find out how many screws are needed per sheet of drywall. It is taken into account that the walls and ceiling require different quantities, depending on the selected step:
  • For vertical surfaces, a distance of 25 cm is most often chosen. Then, with a plate length of 250 cm, taking into account the 60 cm gap between the profiles (one profile is in the center of the sheet), 10 screws will be needed for one rack, and 30 for three. Since the width of the plasterboard is 120 cm, about 10 pieces will be screwed in at the top and bottom. If there are 3 levels of jumpers, another 15-20 pieces will be needed. Total: 55-60 screws.
  • The material should be fastened to the ceiling with a step of 15 cm with a distance between the profiles of 40 cm. If you apply the previous calculation algorithm, you will end up with about 106 screws.

The products are acquired with a reserve, regardless of the method selected. It is also considered that there may be up to 5 defective products out of 100 pieces.

Aspect Details
Type of Screw Fine-thread screws for metal profiles; coarse-thread screws for wood studs
Length 25-35 mm for single-layer drywall; 40-50 mm for double-layer drywall
Spacing 200-300 mm between screws; closer at edges

Selecting the appropriate self-tapping screws for drywall is essential to guarantee a stable and durable installation. You can choose screws that offer the best support without causing damage to the drywall by being aware of the different types and sizes that are available.

The size of the drywall sheets and the distance between screws should be taken into account when determining the required number of screws. By doing this, you’ll be able to estimate the quantity accurately and save money and time.

If you adhere to these recommendations, you’ll be okay.

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Veronica Gerasimova

Interior designer, author of books on the design of residential premises. I will help you make your home not only functional, but also beautiful.

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