drywall screws

Freds · Mar 19, 2006

I have a BUNCH of drywall screws left over after a project. It was cheaper to just buy the whole tub.
I have another little project coming up, building a coop, and I want to know if black drywall screws can be used without the heads rusting. Does anyone know if they retain their black coating in outdoor conditions? I don't want them to bleed rust.
I'd like to start my project shortly or I would set one outside and monitor it for a few months /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

Thanks for any feedback.

Egon · Mar 19, 2006

They will rust.

Egon

Cliff_Johns · Mar 19, 2006

What Egon said.

Cliff

hobbyfarm · Mar 19, 2006

(
They will rust.
Egon )

Ditto, what Egon said. The black oxide screws have their hands full for projects inside the house. In fact even the galvanized screws will rust and/or stain the project material.
Your best bet is stainless steel screws such as those from McFeely's square drive screws. If you decide that SS screws are way over budget, they have a No-Co-Rode galvanized type screw that hold up very well outdoors. These are way better than you can get at most local outlets. I've had these not only on projects outside, but living next to acid dipping tanks and they hold up very well.
Another screw type is from Screw-Products Inc. they also have very good quality screws. They are of the Torx head type.
In the end, it pretty much depends on the project type, wood type and expected life of the project. Something built out of redwood or teak and expected to be heirloom quality will require SS screws to achieve those expectations. However, a quick jig cobbled together out of pine, say, to help make rebar bends consistently will not be required to last for a long time, or will it be a disaster for the fastener to stain the wood. In the end, it will be your decision. Hope this helps.

EddieWalker · Mar 19, 2006

I love drywall screws for all sorts of projects. Interior use only.

To cut down, or eliminate the streaking on galvanized, you can caulk the screw heads and paint over them. If no moisture gets to them they won't rust.

Eddie

Bedlam · Mar 19, 2006

I really think they should be called universal screws. I use them for everything. Had a car with an all plastic front end. When my daughter came home with it hanging. I used some 4 inch long screws to hold it on.
They are also great with sheet metal.
Also, great for taking out slivers from a finger.
I use so many now I buy thm in bulk.But yes they do rust, and have a tendence to shear.

Egon · Mar 19, 2006

The drywall screws can be used for a lot of applications but be aware they are not a strong screw. Much easier getting the proper screws with the roberton's head. Easier to apply and don't cost much more.

Egon /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Cliff_Johns · Mar 19, 2006

( I really think they should be called universal screws. )

Indeed, drywall screws and duct tape (AKA Duck tape) have replaced chewing gum and bailing twine as the fix all twins.

Cliff

Freds · Mar 20, 2006

Thanks for the replies.
Looks like I'll have to add some type of fasteners to my buying list.... and find more indoor projects for all those drywall screws /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif