How do I consistently drive drywall screws to the correct depth? [solved]
Is there a special technique or tool for consistently placing drywall screws correctly?
I'm using a standard Dewalt DWD115K (with no auto-stop mechanism) so I'm usually paranoid of going too deep with screws... which results in stopping the screw before it's completely set in -- and then having additional trouble properly sinking it after that.
I thought maybe a screw guide might help but it didn't... Is this just something where practice makes perfect?
Buy a $5 drywall dimpler, the bit will slip off the screw head when the screw is at the appropriate depth.
Certainly you will get better with practice.
Also, as drywall (plasterboard in the UK) is quite soft you'd have to have the clutch on a low setting anyway. I find that if I don't get the screw at quite the right depth the first go I can usually just add an extra couple of twists by hand to get it bedded in to my satisfaction. Just make sure you get a screwdriver that fits the screw head quite tightly.
Just take it steady and don't worry too much.
The Dimpler® attachment is a good idea if you're doing a small area. If you're doing a whole room or more either rent or buy a screw gun.
It'll make life a lot easier.
You're doing it just right. The biggest mistake you can make when screwing in drywall is to drive the screw too deeply, tearing the paper outer layer. The paper is what's holding the plaster inside together enough to be screwed down in the first place, so keeping it intact is the key to a secure connection. You want the screw head to be just below the surface, just dimpling the paper so it can be later filled with compound and hidden. A clutch isn't going to help you with this because you'll find each screw will require different torque to get to the right depth. And I've tried the auto-stop drivers that chuck into your drill and found them to be inconsistent at setting the screw to just the right depth, and consequently slower than just using a regular drill driver and my own eyes.
My technique is similar to what you've been doing, stopping the driver at what I think is the right spot, but being careful to err on the side of not going deep enough. Then I run a finger over it to make sure it's dimpled, and if not I'll just use the drill driver as a manual screwdriver, turning the whole thing by hand to get that last 1/4 or 1/2 turn. As a final check before starting my first mud coat, I'll quickly run my 6" knife over all the screws and if I hear any clinks, I know I've got to drive that screw in a little deeper.
Practice makes perfect, but I'd recommend a drill with a clutch if you can scrounge one up. It's not fool proof, but it helps.
If you're going to be doing a lot of drywall projects then your wish list should have something like this gun. It's great for decking too. Only a framing nailer is faster in my experience for putting stuff together.
Most Don't Know DeWalt Drill Tool: Drywall Screw Setter
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