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Switched my drywall screws and mud hasn't popped since
I been using the same coarse thread screws for years. Had a job in Austin last month where the mud kept popping on a new build. Old timer I was working with told me to try fine thread screws for the 5/8 board. I laughed it off but tried it on one wall. That was 6 weeks ago and not a single pop on that wall while the rest needed touch ups. Fine thread holds better in the metal studs I guess. Any of you guys seen a difference with screw threads on different thicknesses?
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noahmartin1mo ago
I read a article in Fine Homebuilding a few years back that tested this exact thing. They found fine thread screws grab better in metal studs because the threads cut into the steel instead of just mashing against it like coarse threads do. The coarse threads are made for wood studs where they need to bite into the fibers. That old timer you worked with probably learned that trick from years of trial and error. I switched to fine thread for all my metal stud work after reading that. It makes sense when you think about it, the fine threads have more surface contact with the metal.
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kellyjones1mo ago
You know what, I used to be totally convinced coarse thread was the only way to go. I figured if it worked on wood it had to work on steel. But reading this and seeing what that old timer proved out, it really does change my mind. The idea that fine threads actually cut into the metal instead of just squishing against it makes so much sense. Plus the part about more surface contact just clicks. I've been doing this a long time and hate being wrong, but I'd rather be wrong and have less callbacks. Gonna grab a box of fine threads for my next metal stud job and see how it goes.
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