Screws vs. Glue & Screw: The Best Way to Hang Drywall (And Why Nails Don't Belong Anywhere Near It)
When it comes to drywall installation, the fastening method you choose can make the difference between a flawless, long-lasting finish and a wall that constantly needs repair. For decades, contractors have debated the best approach: should you stick with screws alone, or go with a glue and screw combination? And while both of those methods have merit, there's one option that doesn't belong in any modern jobsite — drywall nails.
This article breaks down the pros and cons of screws versus glue & screw, explains why nails are obsolete, and provides practical tips for getting the best possible results.
Drywall Screws Only
Pros
Screws are the industry standard for a reason. They provide a secure mechanical hold directly into studs, are readily available at any supply house, and are easy to drive with cordless drills or screwguns. They also allow for precision — if you need to back one out and adjust, you can do so without damaging the drywall panel. For most general drywall hanging, screws alone get the job done reliably.
Cons
The downside of relying on screws only is that they put all the stress on individual fastener points. Over time, this can contribute to screw pops, especially if the installer misses the stud slightly or drives the screw too deep. Using screws alone also tends to require more fasteners per sheet, which can slow installation compared to glue & screw methods.
Additional Considerations for Screws
Thread type matters: Use coarse-thread drywall screws for wood studs and fine-thread screws for metal studs. This ensures proper bite and holding power.
Depth control: Avoid relying on cheap screw dimplers for cordless drills. They can be inconsistent and often leave fasteners set either too shallow or too deep.
Modern screwguns: Today's cordless screwguns, like adjustable-torque models, provide precise depth control and speed. They virtually eliminate the guesswork and reduce the chance of surface damage or pops later on. With the right tool, screw-only installation is faster and more consistent than it used to be.
Glue & Screw Combination
Pros
Adding construction adhesive to the studs before fastening drywall is widely considered the premium approach. The glue distributes the load across the panel, reducing stress on each screw and dramatically cutting down on the risk of fastener pops. With glue holding much of the load, you can also use fewer screws per sheet without sacrificing strength. The adhesive also provides better sound dampening and reduces vibration — a clear benefit in commercial or multifamily construction.
Cons
The glue and screw method does require more upfront effort. Applying adhesive is an extra step, and if not done neatly, it can get messy. The materials add a small cost, and once the glue sets, adjusting panels becomes difficult. It also demands careful alignment right from the start — there's less room for error.
Still, when quality and durability are top priorities, glue & screw often pays for itself by reducing callbacks for nail pops, screw pops, or sagging panels.
The Case Against Nails
Drywall nails were once the go-to fastening method, but in today's construction environment, they're little more than a shortcut. Nails are notorious for popping, losing hold, and damaging the drywall face. Even when driven properly, the cyclical expansion and contraction of studs practically guarantees nail pops over time.
Simply put: nails create unnecessary repair work. They offer no speed advantage over screws, and with modern tools, screws install just as quickly. Professional contractors have long since abandoned nails, and for good reason. If quality is your goal, nails shouldn't even be on the table.
Choosing the Right Method
So which should you use?
- For budget-conscious projects: Screws alone are simple, cost-effective, and perfectly acceptable when installed correctly with modern tools.
- For higher-quality, longer-term results: Glue & screw provides the best finish, the fewest callbacks, and a quieter, sturdier wall.
- For professional contractors: Nails are out. They represent an outdated practice that only leads to headaches down the road.
Conclusion
In drywall installation, the fastening method makes all the difference. Screws are reliable and versatile, especially with the precision offered by today's cordless screwguns. Glue & screw, while requiring more effort upfront, delivers the strongest, most durable finish. Nails, on the other hand, are a relic of the past and should be avoided altogether.
Whether you're hanging a single room or a large commercial project, choosing the right method ensures a better result — fewer pops, fewer repairs, and happier clients. In short: screws work, glue & screw works better, and nails don't belong at all.
