Renovation has long been an important part of our life. We are constantly equipping, repairing, improving something. I would like the walls that surround us to be beautiful, functional and reliable. Reliability is ensured by the use of quality materials, not the least of which is high-quality fastening to a profile or wall. How reliable the fastening of the elements will turn out depends on the reliability of the structure completely, and therefore on the safety and ease of use. An important place in the long list of fasteners is occupied by self-tapping screws for drywall, with which the sheet is attached to the wall (GKL). Their types and sizes, the distance between them and the quality of their manufacture - and the theme of this material. Drywall has long won the fame of practical and convenient finishing material, and the technology of its application requires the use of special self-tapping screws - GKL.
Self-tapping screws for metal and wood
Depending on how it is attached to the wall gypsum plasterboard, and there is a choice of the required type of self-tapping screws. If you intend to use metal profiles, then use gypsum plasterboard for metal, and for fixing drywall to the wooden lathing of the wall - plasterboard for wood. You can easily understand the purpose of a particular self-tapping screw by its outward appearance, more precisely, by the differences between them in the form of a thread. For wood, the thread pitch is sparse, and for metal, it is frequent. To fasten drywall to a reinforced profile with a thickness of up to 2 mm, it is worth using self-tapping screws with a drill, which will eliminate the need to pre-drill the sheet and significantly reduce the time for attaching drywall to the wall, even despite the small distance between the screws. All types of self-tapping screws for drywall, regardless of their specifics (when choosing between wood and metal), have a number of similar features:
- black color. This is an indicator that the screws have received an oxidized or phosphated coating, which serves as a reliable barrier against corrosion;
- thread in the form of a pointed spiral, which greatly facilitates screwing a self-tapping screw into almost any surface;
- the presence of a carob-type head, which, when screwed in, is completely recessed into a drywall sheet and does not interfere with its further finishing (plaster, wall painting, wallpapering);
- Phillips cross slot PH-2, which makes it equally easy to screw the self-tapping screws into the sheet either by hand using a screwdriver or with screwdrivers. And the cross-shaped nozzles for this slot can be selected between options from the price category, or resistance to stress.
Possible sizes
The industry produces self-tapping screws for a drywall sheet of various lengths. This is due to the variety of tasks that these fasteners face. It is far from always necessary to simply attach a drywall sheet to a profile or to a wall. It happens that you need to screw two sheets at the same time or do, and then you need a longer self-tapping screw, the choice of the length of the self-tapping screw may depend on the density of the tree to which you need to attach or on the distance to it (and it can be very significant). Therefore, self-tapping screws of different lengths are produced for different tasks. The length of the screw can be determined by eye (if the eye is developed), but it is much easier to do this by marking. For example, if you see that it is written 4.2x76, this means that in front of you is a self-tapping screw with a diameter of 4.2 millimeters and a length of 76 millimeters. When deciding how long the self-tapping screws need to be bought, remember that the gypsum board is recommended to be sunk into drywall to a depth of 1 mm. Consider this moment when deciding on the length.
Types of self-tapping screws for profiles How to make the right choice
An inexperienced craftsman who decides to independently perform simple repairs must first decide not only what length of screws he plans to fasten the sheet to the wall, but also with their number, that is, decide how many screws to buy.
So that the consumer does not recruit for the future without overpaying, many stores pack up batches of self-tapping screws that come from the factory in industrial packages of several thousand pieces (and the smallest 3.5x16 can be up to 25 thousand pieces in a box) in small containers. Some sellers have screws packaged per piece - small by 500 or 1000 pieces, large (4.8x92 or 4.8x127, 100-200 pieces each), while others, to speed up the packing process, the screws are laid out in boxes by weight. And if it is possible to calculate the flow rate by the piece, knowing approximately the volume of work, then some difficulties may arise with weight lots. Therefore, if it is really important for you not to buy self-tapping screws for future use, ask the seller how many approximately (or exactly) self-tapping screws of this type are in the package - when packing, the store must calculate the number of self-tapping screws per unit of weight, and will willingly provide you with such information.
And the consumption of self-tapping screws when working with drywall can be easily calculated, knowing the required distance between the points of attachment of the sheet to the profile or to the wall, as well as the type of drywall sheet, the type of profile used and the volume of the room.
Signs of a high-quality self-tapping screw
Experienced workers know that the consumption of self-tapping screws on a drywall sheet can increase many times if a defective batch is found. Sometimes this happens due to a simple oversight, which can be completely avoided, knowing what to look for when buying self-tapping screws:
- appearance of self-tapping screws. All screws must be the same size. Thickening or thinning, various curvatures are not allowed; (Conclusion - the self-tapping screw was made in violation of the technology, a significant decrease in its strength characteristics is possible);
- the hole for the slot on the self-tapping screws must be clearly visible and located in the very center of the self-tapping screw head. No sagging, distortions or bulges of fasteners are allowed. (Each case of a poor-quality slot at least will not allow you to tighten the self-tapping screw, and as a maximum, it will spoil the screwdriver bit);
- self-tapping screws should have an even black or gray-black color, the same for the entire batch, which confirms that the manufacturer has performed high-quality phosphating or oxidation of the product, which means that they are not afraid of corrosion; (conclusion - any increase in humidity will lead to the appearance of rust spots, including under the wallpaper, which are then extremely difficult to remove).
Important: a manufacturer with a name whose product quality is stable and always on high level, marks its self-tapping screws.
Even without the manufacturer's packaging in hand, they can be easily identified by the letter on the head of the screw. This, for example, X, T, W, G, Z or any other. In this case, it does not matter which letter is on the screw, it is important that the manufacturer does not hide himself openly and is ready to be responsible for the quality of the product. Although the letter X is preferred, it is OMAX, one of the the best manufacturers fastening products.
Methods and options for attaching a drywall sheet to the wall
When starting with the installation of drywall sheets to the profile, it is important to remember some rules for working with this building material... Before starting the installation, it is worth making preliminary marks on dry plaster, which will then show where the holes are needed. This will help create an even, neat row of bindings instead of a chaotic scattering. In addition to a purely aesthetic effect, this order will also increase strength characteristics the entire structure, since the load due to the even distribution of the screws over the drywall sheet will also be evenly distributed. The standard consumption of self-tapping screws per sheet is 70 pieces (with a generally accepted pitch between two fasteners of 35 cm).
How to properly attach self-tapping screws to cardboard 
Correct fastening drywall It is more convenient and faster to install drywall sheets using a screwdriver with an attachment for the corresponding slot of the self-tapping screw. They begin to screw in at the maximum speed, and, having screwed in the self-tapping screw by half, reduce the speed to the minimum in order to be able to accurately control the depth of the fastener entry into the drywall. It is important not to allow the self-tapping screw to tear the sheet and go into profile. If this still happened, you need to unscrew the self-tapping screw and putty the hole, and screw in a new self-tapping screw at a distance of 5 cm from the hole.
After all the screws are screwed in, you can check with a spatula if which of them is not screwed in fully, in order to immediately fix it by drowning it, like all the others, into the sheet at a distance of up to 1 mm.
Approximate consumption
We offer a table from which you can find out the consumption of materials for work.
It is very important when visiting construction or hardware stores or when ordering via the Internet, not to miss anything, so that later you do not have to make a second purchase. And if, when buying self-tapping screws for drywall, it is almost impossible not to buy the drywall itself, and the screwdriver is completely implied, the nozzles-bits are offered by experienced sellers of fasteners to all buyers of self-tapping screws, but even experienced workers sometimes forget about the means of protection. First of all, we are talking about hand protection - protective gloves. The technology for the manufacture of self-tapping screws allows the appearance of the smallest sharpened metal particles on them, practically invisible, easily piercing the skin of the hands, and capable of causing infection. When working with self-tapping screws, do not ignore protective equipment, especially protective gloves.
Types of fasteners for drywall: self-tapping screws, screws, anchors
Drywall has become a popular building material. After all, it is easy to work with him if you have everything you need. One of the main elements plasterboard structures is the fastener. If you choose the right screws for drywall, then the structure will be strong and durable.
What fasteners are used in drywall structures
Plasterboard structures include several materials - gypsum plasterboard (gypsum plasterboard), metallic profile, wooden spacers (if necessary, reinforcement). In addition, the structure itself must be attached to load-bearing wall... It can be wooden or concrete (brick). The variety of materials used entails the need to use different hardware.
Fasteners for gypsum board
Before installation, it is necessary to determine with what screws to fasten the drywall to the profile. It depends on the material of the frame to which the sheets will be attached.
Self-tapping drywall screws for metal are a screw with a cone-shaped rod, pointed at the end. They are used for attaching hl to a metal profile. If the thickness of the metal exceeds 0.7 mm, then profile screws with a drill at the end are suitable, instead of the usual sharpening. They are used for profiles with a wall thickness of 07-2.2 mm.
1 - for metal; 2 - for wood
Self-tapping screws for wood are analogous to self-tapping screws for metal. Their difference is the thread pitch. Self-tapping screws for wood have a larger thread pitch, compared to screws for metal, and are used to attach hl to a wooden structure.
Self-tapping screws for metal profiles
Self-tapping screws for drywall profiles, due to their small size, were nicknamed "bugs", "fleas" or "seeds". They have dimensions: length from 9.5 to 11 mm, diameter from 3.5 to 3.9 mm. The shape of the head is a hemisphere or a half-cylinder with a cross recess.
If the thickness of the metal does not exceed 1.2 mm, then you can use a self-tapping screw for a drywall profile with a pointed end; for a greater thickness, use a screw with a drill at the end. Such screws successfully drill holes in the profile, up to 2 mm thick.
Fasteners for fixing the frame to the wall
The dowel-nail is used to fasten the elements of the frame of the structure to concrete or brick wall. Optimal size: diameter 6 mm, length 37 mm.
The anchor bolt has the same purpose as the dowel-nail, but is used in cases where it is necessary to achieve a stronger and more durable fastening.
Wood screws are used to fasten the frame of the structure to wooden walls.
Differences of self-tapping screws for drywall
During the purchase of fastening material, you may encounter a problem - how to choose self-tapping screws for drywall. After all, modern building materials are made taking into account the smallest factors. To solve this problem, you need to familiarize yourself with technical characteristics fasteners.
Classification of self-tapping screws for hl:
The screw material can be identified by the color:
Cutter - an alternative to screws
The elements metal frame under hkl structures are usually fastened with self-tapping screws "bugs". This method is robust but takes a relatively long time to screw in the screw. This problem was resolved with the introduction of the cutter.
The cutter is a mechanism that works on the principle of ordinary scissors, but instead of blades, it has a spike that pierces the metal. To fasten two elements of the frame, it is necessary to superimpose them on top of each other, set the cutter in the desired place and press the levers. Fastening occurs due to the fact that the metal bends into the hole and wedges.
When using a cutter, you do not need to think about which screws to fasten the profile for drywall, because they are completely absent there.
- fast bonding;
- does not require electricity;
- lack of protrusions in the attachment points.
- the strength of the connection is inferior to self-tapping screws, but sufficient to erect the hl of the structure;
- there are many low-quality fakes on the market that quickly fail.
Types of fasteners to drywall
To attach an element to a structure made of gypsum plasterboard, various dowels or drywall anchors are used.
The plastic dowel has a threaded body with a drill at the end. It is screwed into hl without pre-drilling. Then a metal screw is screwed into the plastic, which will secure the element to be installed.
The metal dowel has the same principle of operation as the plastic one, but it is more durable.
The dowel "butterfly" is inserted into the hole in the hl, and when the screw is screwed in, the dowel expands in the space behind the sheet.
The molly dowel for drywall works on a similar principle to the butterfly. However, it is made of metal, so it can withstand heavy loads. To install the "molly" dowel, you need to insert it into the hole in the drywall, screw in the screw all the way - this will entail its opening, then unscrew the screw and attach the element to be installed.
The main types of screws, dowels, fastening methods that are used when working with drywall were listed. All of them differ in the principle of operation, technical and performance characteristics... Undoubtedly, there are many alternative, maybe even more reliable and convenient technologies. If you have one of these techniques, you can tell us about them in the comments - it will be useful information for beginners, and maybe for professionals.
What self-tapping screws are needed for a profile and drywall, and how much
Renovation has long been an important part of our life. We are constantly equipping, repairing, improving something. I would like the walls that surround us to be beautiful, functional and reliable. Reliability is ensured by the use of quality materials, not the least of which is high-quality fastening to a profile or wall. How reliable the fastening of the elements will turn out depends on the reliability of the structure completely, and therefore on the safety and ease of use. An important place in the long list of fasteners is occupied by self-tapping screws for drywall, with which the sheet is attached to the wall (GKL). Their types and sizes, the distance between them and the quality of their manufacture - and the theme of this material. Drywall has long won the fame of a practical and convenient finishing material, and the technology of its use requires the use of special self-tapping screws - GKL.
Self-tapping screws for metal and wood
Depending on how the plasterboard sheet is attached to the wall, the required type of self-tapping screws is selected. If it is supposed to use metal profiles, then use gypsum plasterboard for metal, and for fixing drywall to the wooden lathing of the wall - plasterboard for wood. You can easily understand the purpose of a particular self-tapping screw by its appearance, more precisely, by the differences between them in the form of a thread. For wood, the thread pitch is sparse, and for metal, it is frequent. To fasten drywall to a reinforced profile with a thickness of up to 2 mm, it is worth using self-tapping screws with a drill, which will eliminate the need to pre-drill the sheet and significantly reduce the time for attaching drywall to the wall, even despite the small distance between the screws. All types of self-tapping screws for drywall, regardless of their specifics (when choosing between wood and metal), have a number of similar features:
- black color. This is an indicator that the screws have received an oxidized or phosphated coating, which serves as a reliable barrier against corrosion;
- thread in the form of a pointed spiral, which greatly facilitates screwing a self-tapping screw into almost any surface;
- the presence of a carob-type head, which, when screwed in, is completely recessed into a drywall sheet and does not interfere with its further finishing (plaster, wall painting, wallpapering);
- Phillips cross slot PH-2, which makes it equally easy to screw the self-tapping screws into the sheet either by hand using a screwdriver or with screwdrivers. And the cross-shaped nozzles for this slot can be selected between options from the price category, or resistance to stress.
Possible sizes
The industry produces self-tapping screws for a drywall sheet of various lengths. This is due to the variety of tasks that these fasteners face. It is far from always necessary to simply attach a drywall sheet to a profile or to a wall. It happens that you need to screw two sheets at the same time or do, and then you need a longer self-tapping screw, the choice of the length of the self-tapping screw may depend on the density of the tree to which you need to attach or on the distance to it (and it can be very significant). Therefore, self-tapping screws of different lengths are produced for different tasks. The length of the screw can be determined by eye (if the eye is developed), but it is much easier to do this by marking. For example, if you see that it is written 4.2x76, this means that in front of you is a self-tapping screw with a diameter of 4.2 millimeters and a length of 76 millimeters. When deciding how long the self-tapping screws need to be bought, remember that the gypsum board is recommended to be sunk into drywall to a depth of 1 mm. Consider this moment when deciding on the length.
Types of self-tapping screws for profiles
How to make the right choice
An inexperienced craftsman who decides to independently perform simple repairs must first decide not only what length of screws he plans to fasten the sheet to the wall, but also with their number, that is, decide how many screws to buy.
So that the consumer does not recruit for the future without overpaying, many stores pack up batches of self-tapping screws that come from the factory in industrial packages of several thousand pieces (and the smallest 3.5x16 can be up to 25 thousand pieces in a box) in small containers. Some sellers have screws packaged per piece - small by 500 or 1000 pieces, large (4.8x92 or 4.8x127, 100-200 pieces each), while others, to speed up the packing process, the screws are laid out in boxes by weight. And if it is possible to calculate the flow rate by the piece, knowing approximately the volume of work, then some difficulties may arise with weight lots. Therefore, if it is really important for you not to buy self-tapping screws for future use, ask the seller how many approximately (or exactly) self-tapping screws of this type are in the package - when packing, the store must calculate the number of self-tapping screws per unit of weight, and will willingly provide you with such information.
And the consumption of self-tapping screws when working with drywall can be easily calculated, knowing the required distance between the points of attachment of the sheet to the profile or to the wall, as well as the type of drywall sheet, the type of profile used and the volume of the room.
Signs of a high-quality self-tapping screw
Experienced workers know that the consumption of self-tapping screws on a drywall sheet can increase many times if a defective batch is found. Sometimes this happens due to a simple oversight, which can be completely avoided, knowing what to look for when buying self-tapping screws:
- appearance of self-tapping screws. All screws must be the same size. Thickening or thinning, various curvatures are not allowed; (Conclusion - the self-tapping screw was made in violation of the technology, a significant decrease in its strength characteristics is possible);
- the hole for the slot on the self-tapping screws must be clearly visible and located in the very center of the self-tapping screw head. No sagging, distortions or bulges of fasteners are allowed. (Each case of a poor-quality slot at least will not allow you to tighten the self-tapping screw, and as a maximum, it will spoil the screwdriver bit);
- self-tapping screws should have an even black or gray-black color, the same for the entire batch, which confirms that the manufacturer has performed high-quality phosphating or oxidation of the product, which means that they are not afraid of corrosion; (conclusion - any increase in humidity will lead to the appearance of rust spots, including under the wallpaper, which are then extremely difficult to remove).
Important: a manufacturer with a name, whose product quality is stable and always at a high level, marks its self-tapping screws.
Even without the manufacturer's packaging in hand, they can be easily identified by the letter on the head of the screw. This, for example, X, T, W, G, Z or any other. In this case, it does not matter which letter is on the screw, it is important that the manufacturer does not hide himself openly and is ready to be responsible for the quality of the product. Although the X is preferred, it is the mark of OMAX, one of the best manufacturers of fasteners.
Methods and options for attaching a drywall sheet to the wall
When starting with the installation of drywall sheets to a profile, it is important to remember some rules for working with this building material. Before starting the installation, it is worth making preliminary marks on dry plaster, which will then show where the holes are needed. This will help create an even, neat row of bindings instead of a chaotic scattering. In addition to a purely aesthetic effect, this order will also increase the strength characteristics of the entire structure, since the load due to the uniform distribution of self-tapping screws over the drywall sheet will also be evenly distributed. The standard consumption of self-tapping screws per sheet is 70 pieces (with a generally accepted pitch between two fasteners of 35 cm).
How to properly attach self-tapping screws to cardboard 
Correct drywall fixing
It is more convenient and faster to install drywall sheets using a screwdriver with an attachment for the corresponding slot of the self-tapping screw. They begin to screw in at the maximum speed, and, having screwed in the self-tapping screw by half, reduce the speed to the minimum in order to be able to accurately control the depth of the fastener entry into the drywall. It is important not to allow the self-tapping screw to tear the sheet and go into profile. If this still happened, you need to unscrew the self-tapping screw and putty the hole, and screw in a new self-tapping screw at a distance of 5 cm from the hole.
After all the screws are screwed in, you can check with a spatula if which of them is not screwed in fully, in order to immediately fix it by drowning it, like all the others, into the sheet at a distance of up to 1 mm.
The scheme of screwing self-tapping screws into a galvanized profile
Approximate consumption
We offer a table from which you can find out the consumption of materials for work.
Four main principles - how to attach drywall to a profile
Having understood the principle of fastening drywall, it will be easier to create complex structures from this material If the profile could just be bought, and that's it - I assembled it according to the instructions, fixed the sheets to it, and you're done! But one cannot do without subtleties in this matter - the profile has to be cut and, conversely, lengthened, connected, and observe all the parameters of the future frame. And even when this is done, the question arises - how better drywall, and through what distance to do it?
The first principle - ways of fixing the profile
Almost no one can do without frame structure, so it is without connecting two or more profiles in a straight line.
- Build-up... For example, you are missing a standard three-meter profile, then using a special connector you fasten it to the second profile or its segment. The ends of the two connected profiles are inserted into the connector, they are fixed with short self-tapping screws with a press washer (the so-called bugs).
- T-joint... It happens with the help of a "crab", but first the excess part of the part is cut off.
- Cruciform connection... Used in the design of ceiling frames. Four profiles are inserted into the "crab" with their ends, after which they snap into it, and the antennae of the connection are bent 90 degrees, and are fixed to the sides of the profiles with "bugs".
In the latter case, you can also do without "crabs". Fastening can be done like this: cut along the fold transverse profiles, bend the sides. Apply them to the longitudinal profile, and you can attach them with the same "bugs". Both options are quite simple, the main thing is to do everything technically correctly.
Also read the materials:
Almost no frame structure is complete without connecting two or more profiles in a straight line.
The second principle - fastening with self-tapping screws
As a standard, you can fix drywall to the profile with self-tapping screws (for metal), while you will also need a drill or screwdriver from the tools. If you decide to do with the latter, then it should be with an adjustable number of revolutions.
The drywall sheet is first cut out, and only then fixed to the profile. Having fixed one sheet, you cut out the second, etc. A maximum of three sheets can be joined at one point, and they are attached correctly with an offset, that is, the seams will be T-shaped.
Principle three: distance between profiles
A certain distance between the profiles during fastening must be maintained. The strength of the entire structure depends on this.
Step (distance) between profiles :
- Since the width of an ordinary plasterboard sheet is 120 cm, the profiles are located at a distance of 40 or 60 cm between the axes, parallel. It turns out that two sheets are attached to one extreme profile.
- The fastening of the suspensions takes place strictly on one line, without deviating from it. The line is marked in advance.
- GKL is attached to each rack, allowing a step of 30 cm.In this case, a smaller step can be taken, and a larger step will call the strength of the structure into question.
A certain distance between the profiles during fastening must be maintained
It remains only to figure out how to mount the suspensions.
Principle four - how to attach a profile to suspensions
The profile can be fixed to straight hangers with short self-tapping screws with a press washer.
If we are talking about suspensions with traction, fastening can be done either with self-tapping screws, or simply by snapping on special projections.
Suspensions are attached to the ceiling exclusively with self-tapping screws, the distance between the axes of the sheets is the same - after 40-60 cm.
By the way, if there are no suspensions, you can work with scraps of the PS-profile. They just need to be cut along the sides, bent with the letter G and fixed on the wall. Such a profile fastener for a drywall sheet will save on suspensions.
How to attach drywall to a profile (video)
Fastening drywall is a simple, but very responsible process. The aesthetic appearance of the future surface will depend on the correct installation of the sheets. In the process of installing drywall, it is necessary to use a number of tools, as well as fasteners. Today, their choice must be taken responsibly, because the assortment is wide, and choosing a really high-quality product is problematic.
What is needed for fastening
When you decide to take up the installation of drywall, then besides standard set tools, it is necessary to prepare self-tapping screws for the guides and the guides themselves.
What are needed for the guides
For installation works for installing drywall sheets, two types of self-tapping screws are used: metal for metal and for wooden base... The first option of fasteners creates a reliable fastening for the profile and allows it to hold the sheet on itself for a long time. The tip of the fastener for metal is sharp, so it quickly plunges into the sheet. The dimensions of the self-tapping screw are 3.9 x 9.5 mm.
In the photo, self-tapping screws for drywall guides
If we talk about metal screws for wood, then they fit perfectly into wooden base and create a secure fit. The dimensions of the self-tapping screws are 3.8 x11 mm.
When choosing a self-tapping screw, you need to pay attention to such important parameters as the thickness and length of the fastener. On which products to choose, it's up to you. In addition to metal profiles, the role of the frame can be played by wooden blocks... Within the framework of this question, it is useful to read about which ones are used in modern construction.
Although there are a number of "contraindications" to their use:
- the tree dries up;
- rots;
- when the humidity in the room rises, the entire structure cracks or warps;
- are used only for temporary structures or when performing necessary requirements humidity and temperature in rooms.
On video self-tapping screws for drywall guides:
What guides are needed
If you have never worked with drywall sheets before, then first you need to familiarize yourself with the basic types of guides that are necessary to create a rigid frame. Their assortment is so wide that when choosing a novice master, certain difficulties may arise.
There are the following types of surfacing:
- Guides for assembling the frame(MON) or (UW). They have the following standard sizes: depth - 40mm, width - 50mm, 75mm or 100mm. The width depends on how thick the wall will be. This type of guide is a kind of rail, the basis for further fastening of ceiling and rack-mount guide profiles.
In the photo there are guides for assembling the frame
- Ceiling guides(PNP) or (UD). These elements have similar functions and are used for fixing the ceiling frame for plasterboard finishing. This variety is simply irreplaceable for installation multilevel ceilings suspended type.
On video ceiling guides
- Ceiling(PP) or (CD). Their installation to the ceiling surface is carried out using straight hangers or anchor clamps. It is this type of guide that forms the ceiling base directly.
On photo ceiling(PP) or (CD)
- Rack(PS) or (CW). It is used to install the frame of future partitions or drywall walls. They are fastened directly to the guide profile.
On a photo rack (PS)
- Beacon... This profile view is used to create a flat wall surface. During the installation process, it is necessary to adhere to the PM level. Another beacon profile is called a rail profile, because the rule follows it. It is very convenient in the process of applying plaster to the walls.
On the photo - beacon guide
- Angular view of the guides... Its role is to make corners even and solid.
On photo corner type of guides
How to attach metal rails
The installation process of the metal frame is carried out both on the wall and on the ceiling surface. As an example, it is worth considering the installation method ceiling structure with guide profiles. You will also have to stock up on ceiling and guide profiles for drywall.
The procedure is as follows:
- The first step is to carry out the markup... And we are talking not only about the markup for the structure itself. Do not forget electrical wiring... It will be impossible to correct mistakes in the future, so you need to do the work carefully and accurately.
- Find the lowest coal, measure the required distance vertically... It should be equal to the height of the structure.
- Using laser level, mark the lines on which the guide profiles for drywall sheets will be installed.
- Using a puncher, make holes in the wall with a step of 1.5 m. Install dowels in them. Attach metal guides for plasterboard sheets with self-tapping screws. Perform such actions around the perimeter of the entire ceiling surface.
- Next comes the marking and installation of ceiling profiles. To begin with, draw longitudinal lines with a step of 0.6 m. According to them, mount the suspensions and fix the ceiling profiles. First, there are longitudinal, and behind them are transverse.
- The base for attaching the sheets is ready. Next, it is necessary to carry out the direct installation of the drywall itself, carry out the processing of the seams and the final cladding. Thanks to the guides used for the gypsum board sheets, you can shorten the duration of work, increase the reliability of the installed structure.
Carrying out the described work plan, do not forget about safety. Self-tapping screws are quite sharp products, so you need to wear gloves when installing them, otherwise there is a possibility of injury to your hand. Always wear safety glasses when drilling. For work, use only a serviceable electric tool... But how to use a molly dowel for drywall is described in great detail here
Drywall has become a popular building material. After all, it is easy to work with him if you have everything you need. One of the main elements of plasterboard structures is fasteners. If you choose the right screws for drywall, then the structure will be strong and durable.
What fasteners are used in drywall structures
Plasterboard structures include several materials - gypsum plasterboard (gypsum plasterboard), metal profile, wooden spacers (if necessary, reinforcement). In addition, the structure itself must be attached to the load-bearing wall. It can be wooden or concrete (brick). The variety of materials used entails the need to use different hardware.
Fasteners for gypsum board
Before installation, it is necessary to determine with what screws to fasten the drywall to the profile. It depends on the material of the frame to which the sheets will be attached.
Self-tapping drywall screws for metal are a screw with a cone-shaped rod, pointed at the end. They are used for attaching hl to a metal profile. If the thickness of the metal exceeds 0.7 mm, then profile screws with a drill at the end are suitable, instead of the usual sharpening. They are used for profiles with a wall thickness of 07-2.2 mm.
1 - for metal; 2 - for wood
Self-tapping screws for wood are analogous to self-tapping screws for metal. Their difference is the thread pitch. Self-tapping screws for wood have a larger thread pitch, compared to screws for metal, and are used to attach hl to a wooden structure.
Self-tapping screws for metal profiles
Self-tapping screws for drywall profiles, due to their small size, were nicknamed "bugs", "fleas" or "seeds". They have dimensions: length from 9.5 to 11 mm, diameter from 3.5 to 3.9 mm. The shape of the head is a hemisphere or a half-cylinder with a cross recess.
If the thickness of the metal does not exceed 1.2 mm, then you can use a self-tapping screw for a drywall profile with a pointed end; for a greater thickness, use a screw with a drill at the end. Such screws successfully drill holes in the profile, up to 2 mm thick.
Fasteners for fixing the frame to the wall
The dowel-nail is used to fasten the elements of the frame of the structure to a concrete or brick wall. Optimal size: diameter 6 mm, length 37 mm.
The anchor bolt has the same purpose as the dowel-nail, but is used in cases where it is necessary to achieve a stronger and more durable fastening.
Wood screws are used to fasten the frame of the structure to wooden walls.
Differences of self-tapping screws for drywall
During the purchase of fastening material, you may encounter a problem - how to choose self-tapping screws for drywall. After all, modern building materials are made taking into account the smallest factors. To solve this problem, you need to familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the fasteners in more detail.
Classification of self-tapping screws for hl:
- According to the material, the bonds are for wood or metal. Their main difference is the thread pitch.
- To size. Each screw is marked with two numbers. The first number is the diameter of the screw, the second is the length of the rod. For drywall, self-tapping screws 3.5x25 are used in one layer, 3.5x35 in two layers.
- The screw head can be countersunk, spherical or hemispherical. For fixing hl, screws with a countersunk head and a Phillips recess are used.
- Manufacturing material: there are steel, brass and steel with a protective coating (zinc and phosphate). Steel - strong, but susceptible to corrosion. Brass - resistant to corrosion, but have low mechanical strength. Coated steel - durable and resistant to corrosion.
The screw material can be identified by the color:
- White ones are brass or galvanized steel.
- Yellow - oxidized (stainless).
- Black - hardened steel.
Cutter - an alternative to screws
Elements of a metal frame for hl construction are usually fastened with self-tapping screws "bugs". This method is robust but takes a relatively long time to screw in the screw. This problem was resolved with the introduction of the cutter.
The cutter is a mechanism that works on the principle of ordinary scissors, but instead of blades, it has a spike that pierces the metal. To fasten two elements of the frame, it is necessary to superimpose them on top of each other, set the cutter in the desired place and press the levers. Fastening occurs due to the fact that the metal bends into the hole and wedges.
When using a cutter, you do not need to think about which screws to fasten the profile for drywall, because they are completely absent there.
The advantages of the cutter:
- fast bonding;
- does not require electricity;
- lack of protrusions in the attachment points.
Its disadvantages:
- the strength of the connection is inferior to self-tapping screws, but sufficient to erect the hl of the structure;
- there are many low-quality fakes on the market that quickly fail.
Types of fasteners to drywall
To attach an element to a structure made of gypsum plasterboard, various dowels or drywall anchors are used.
The plastic dowel has a threaded body with a drill at the end. It is screwed into hl without pre-drilling. Then a metal screw is screwed into the plastic, which will secure the element to be installed.
The metal dowel has the same principle of operation as the plastic one, but it is more durable.
The dowel "butterfly" is inserted into the hole in the hl, and when the screw is screwed in, the dowel expands in the space behind the sheet.
The molly dowel for drywall works on a similar principle to the butterfly. However, it is made of metal, so it can withstand heavy loads. To install the "molly" dowel, you need to insert it into the hole in the drywall, screw in the screw all the way - this will entail its opening, then unscrew the screw and attach the element to be installed.
The main types of screws, dowels, fastening methods that are used when working with drywall were listed. All of them differ in the principle of operation, technical and operational characteristics. Undoubtedly, there are many alternative, maybe even more reliable and convenient technologies. If you have one of these techniques, you can tell us about them in the comments - this will be useful information for beginners, and maybe for professionals.
Drywall is a very common building material. Walls and ceilings are sheathed with it, partitions, all kinds of niches, arches and other decorative elements are made of it. In order to ensure the convenience and quality of installation work, you need to choose the right fasteners for drywall.
All fasteners used when working with drywall can be divided into three groups:
- Used for attaching the gypsum board to the frame, which can be made of wood or a metal profile.
- Necessary for fixing parts of the frame to walls or ceilings.
- Used for fixing various items on drywall: finishing elements, lamps and other interior details.
Fastening drywall to the frame
V recent times The most common fastening element has become self-tapping screws, or, as they are often called, self-tapping screws. Depending on the material of the frame, it is necessary to choose screws for wood or metal. They are easy to distinguish by the thread pitch: for metal screws, it is much smaller.
For fastening to a profile with thick walls, more than 0.7 mm, it is advisable to use special self-tapping screws that have a mini-drill at their end. Using them for fixing drywall will greatly facilitate the work.
How to choose the right screws for drywall? There are several nuances to consider:
- For the installation of gypsum board, screws with a countersunk head are used. The fasteners are slightly recessed in the sheet, after which these holes are putty to get a perfectly flat surface. For this reason, hardware with a spherical or hemispherical head cannot be used.
- Choose the right type of self-tapping screw depending on the material of the frame.
- The size of the screws depends on the thickness of the coating: for gypsum board laid in one layer, self-tapping screws 3.5 × 25 are usually used; in two layers - 3.5 × 35. The first number indicates the diameter of the screw, the second - its length.
- Screw material. They can be easily distinguished by their color: yellow - steel with anti-corrosion coating, white - brass or steel (galvanized), black - hardened steel. The most common are the latter, despite a very significant drawback: they are susceptible to corrosion, therefore, over time, with poor-quality finish on the wall, rust stains at the location of these screws.
When using hardened self-tapping screws, you can face another problem. Sometimes they are overheated, as a result of which, with significant effort during tightening, their head breaks off. It is quite problematic to unscrew the part of the screw remaining in the material in order to screw in a new one in its place. Therefore, it is better to pre-test the purchased hardware in order to avoid installation problems.
Self-tapping screws for metal profiles
The drywall profile requires its own fasteners. Usually use small self-tapping screws with a hemispherical head, popularly called "bugs", "fleas" or "seeds". They have a cross-shaped slot on the head, are from 9.5 to 11 mm in length and 3.5 to 3.9 mm in diameter.
"Fleas" with a miniature drill at the end are marked with the letters "lb", with a simple sharp end- "ln".
With the help of such screws, individual elements of the metal frame are fastened together, and direct suspensions are attached. During the installation process, care should be taken that the self-tapping screws do not interfere with the tight fit of the gypsum board to the profile.
Fastening the frame to a wall or ceiling
With this type of installation work, you can use dowel-nails, and if you need to get a particularly strong fastening, for example, with a heavy frame, then you can use anchor bolts.
The dowel-nail is the simplest element that allows you to securely attach a metal profile to a concrete or brick wall: a hole is drilled in the wall required diameter, after which a plastic dowel is inserted through the hole in the profile and a metal screw is driven in with a hammer. The cross-slot on the head is used to unscrew the screw if necessary, but it is almost impossible to pull out the dowel itself.
A similar algorithm is used when working with anchor bolts, only they are not driven in, but screwed into the metal tube of the dowel with a wrench, expanding it and ensuring reliable fastening.
Fastening additional elements to the drywall surface
If on plasterboard ceiling you need to hang a lamp, mirror or something else, then you cannot do without special fasteners. Do not hope that an ordinary self-tapping screw screwed into the gypsum board will be able to provide reliable fastening.
- Dowels of the "Driva" type. For them, pre-drilling is not required, since this part has small drills at the end. A plastic or metal dowel is screwed into the gypsum board, where it is held by a special thread with a rare pitch. The screw screwed into it serves to fix the attached element.
- Dowel type "Molly" is somewhat reminiscent of a "butterfly", but has more complex structure and is able to support more weight. It is also inserted in advance drilled hole, after which, by screwing in the bolt, the opening of special "shoulders" is carried out, ensuring fixation. In the future, the bolt is unscrewed, and in its place you can place an eyelet, hook or screw necessary for mounting the attached product.