drywall tool

Essential Supplies for Drywall Contractors – Fasteners, Tools & More

Drywall contractors need all the tools of the trade to get the job done quickly and efficiently. With the right selection of fasteners and supplies, you can ensure quality results every time. Here’s a complete checklist of the most essential building materials for drywallers.

The Professional Drywaller’s Ultimate Checklist

If you’re a drywall contractor, it’s important to have the right tools and supplies on hand. Below is a list of all the necessities to keep in your toolbox.

Drywall Saw

A drywall (jab) saw is a straight-bladed hand tool that can be used to cut drywall. It’s ideal for making precise cuts around outlets and switches, but it’s also useful for cutting holes in drywall for electrical boxes and light fixtures. You’ll want to get a jab saw with an adjustable blade depth control so that you can make the depth of your cuts as shallow or as deep as you need them.

Utility Knife

A utility knife is a sturdy hand tool with a retractable blade that can cut through drywall easily and quickly. In addition, a good utility knife will have a sharp blade that can slice through multiple layers of drywall without getting dull or gummed up by bits of gypsum board, allowing you to work more efficiently while minimizing time spent on cleanup after each cut.

Drywall Knife

A drywall knife is a long-bladed hand tool with an angled tip that allows you to make smooth cuts into drywall sheets without damaging the surface below them (which could cause leaks in your home’s plumbing system). Typical sizes are 12”, 6”, and 4”.

Drywall Screws

Drywall fasteners are the most basic and essential construction fasteners for drywall contractors.

Drywall Screw Thread

  • There are two varieties of drywall fasteners: coarse-thread (W-type) screws for wood studs and fine-thread (S-type) screws for metal framing.

Drywall Screw Gauge

  • Most drywall projects will require either #6 (0.1380”) or #8 (0.1640”) drywall screws.

Drywall Screw Length

  • 1/4” drywall panels: Use 1-1/4” screws
  • 1/2” drywall panels: Use 1-3/8” screws
  • 5/8” drywall panels: Use 1-5/8” screws

(Most drywall installed in homes is 1/2” thick.)

Tip: The average 4×8 drywall board requires about 32 screws, but larger boards often need more.

Cordless Power Drill

A power drill is essential to any contractor’s drywall tool kit. You’ll need one with a clutch that lets you adjust the torque so that you don’t strip out the screw holes when driving in your screws. A 12-volt drill will work for most drywall projects, or you can opt for an 18-volt drill for more power

drywall power tool

T-Square

This drywall tool marks lines across the wall where you’ll begin measuring and installing screws — ensuring accuracy. You’ll also use this tool when cutting panels down to size before installation (if necessary).

Mud Pan and Pan Grips

When working with drywall compound (or “mud”), having a good pan and grips will keep everything neat while keeping your hands clean. You can also use these pans for mixing paint or staining woodwork if necessary.

Sanding Supplies

  • Pole Sander – The pole sander is a handheld tool used to sand drywall joints or seams between drywall sheets. It works by spinning a sandpaper pad against the surface of your drywall as you move it back and forth along the joint.
  • Hand Sander – Hand sanders are smaller versions of pole sanders designed to be held in one hand and used in small areas. Hand sanders are great for removing imperfections, especially in corners or edges with more buildup than on other parts of your project.
  • Sanding Sponges – Sanding sponges are used for drywall touch-ups. There are two types: abrasive (one rough side and one smooth side) and non-abrasive (completely smooth for wet sanding).
  • Sanding Screens and Papers – Your drywall project will likely need two types: coarse fiberglass mesh sheets (for sanding off larger drywall bits) and standard sandpaper sheets (for creating a smooth and polished finish).

Other Supplies

There are a few other construction accessories you need to keep yourself safe and secure on the job. Necessary PPE for drywallers includes goggles, thick work gloves, and a dust mask. A tape measure and outlet marker will also be useful to have on hand.

Crane Point Industrial Has the Fasteners and Tools You Need for Drywall Work

If you’re looking for the best drywall fasteners and tools, then Crane Point Industrial has you covered. We have a wide selection of products perfect for any drywall project, from small home repairs to large-scale construction projects. Our products are made from high-quality materials and designed to last, so you can be sure your drywall job will be done right the first time.

Contact a member of our team or visit our online store to shop now.