Screws vs. Nails

Screws vs. Nails hardly sounds like a boxing match–but these two ways of doing repairs around the home need some attention.  On a recent bathroom remodel I decided to use drywall nails instead of drywall screws to hang the new drywall in the bathroom.  Two nails later I stopped.  Why? the force needed to drive the nails was forcing old drywall nails out of the existing walls in the next room!  Great, now I get to patch and paint a room not even part of the existing job.  There is a better way, using screws.  When you go to the hardware store, they have screws for every situation and every job.  With the exception of working with metal or working outside I use one type of screw for every job I have; be it wood, drywall or other.  The secret tool in my tool box?  Lots of different sized drywall screws.  Why drywall screws?  They have a #2 Phillips slotted head–meaning the driver bit isn’t going to slip out, they come in coarse and fine threads–my preference is coarse, and they come in all kinds of different sizes–1, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1 5/8, 2, 2 1/2, 3, 4, and 6 inches screws.  Exterior screws of similiar make come in fewer sizes.  You can get more information at:  www.grip-rite.com.  Although the interior screw is not protected for outside use, it can be used outside.  Drywall screws are part of a great solution when combined with brackets even if the head of the screw doesn’t sit flush with the bracket.  The screws can be easily reversed at a future date but have sufficient holding power–especially the coarse thread–to keep any home project connected for years to come.  I think the Screws have delivered a knock out blow to the Nails!

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