Screw Length for 5/8 Drywall: The Right Size for a Secure Fit 🔩

When hanging drywall, using the correct screw length is critical for strength, safety, and a clean finish. Homeowners often ask: what’s the right screw length for 5/8 drywall? Choosing the wrong screw size can lead to loose boards, popped screw heads, or even damage to studs.

For 5/8-inch drywall, the standard screw length is 1 ¼ inches for wood studs and 1 ⅜ inches for metal studs.

In this article, we’ll break down screw length requirements, explain when what length drywall screws for 5/8 should vary, and why you should be cautious about using 3 inch drywall screws.

If you scuffed or punched through the wall, this step-by-step guide to fix a hole in drywall in 6 easy steps gets you from backing to paint-ready fast.

Why Screw Length Matters

The screw has two jobs: to penetrate through the drywall and to embed deeply enough into the stud (wood or metal) for a secure hold.

• Too short: The drywall won’t anchor properly and may sag.

• Too long: The screw may damage wiring or plumbing hidden behind studs.

Recommended Screw Length for 5/8 Drywall

Here’s the standard guideline most contractors follow:

• Wood studs: 1 ¼-inch drywall screws.

• Metal studs: 1 ⅜-inch drywall screws.

• Ceilings: Go slightly longer (1 ⅝ inches) for extra holding power.

Pro Tip: Always drive screws just below the drywall surface without breaking the paper layer—this ensures a smooth finish for mudding and taping.

What Length Drywall Screws for 5/8?

If you’re still wondering, what length drywall screws for 5/8 should I use? the answer depends on the framing material:

• Use 1 ¼-inch screws for wood studs.

• Use 1 ⅜-inch screws for metal studs.

• Use 1 ⅝-inch screws for ceilings or double-layer drywall.

This gives enough penetration into the stud (at least ⅝ inch) without going too deep.

What About 3 Inch Drywall Screws?

You may come across 3 inch drywall screws, but these are almost never used for standard drywall installation.

• They’re overkill for 5/8 drywall.

• They can pierce through studs or damage hidden systems.

• They’re typically reserved for heavy-duty framing or attaching multiple layers of material.

Using the right screw length saves you from future problems like cracks, bulges, or unsafe installations.

FAQ: Drywall Screw Lengths

What is the best screw length for 5/8 drywall?

1 ¼ inches for wood studs, 1 ⅜ inches for metal studs, and 1 ⅝ inches for ceilings.

What length drywall screws for 5/8 are most common?

Most professionals use 1 ¼-inch screws for standard wall applications.

Are 3 inch drywall screws okay to use?

No—they’re too long for drywall and can cause damage.

How far apart should drywall screws be placed?

Every 12 inches on walls and every 8 inches on ceilings for proper support.

Can I use the same screws for walls and ceilings?

Yes, but ceilings benefit from slightly longer screws for better grip.

Conclusion

The correct screw length for 5/8 drywall is 1 ¼ inches for wood studs and 1 ⅜ inches for metal studs, with 1 ⅝ inches recommended for ceilings. When asking what length drywall screws for 5/8 are best, stick to these sizes for secure, long-lasting results. Avoid oversized screws like 3 inch drywall screws, which can create more problems than they solve.

The right screws mean a smooth finish, a strong hold, and fewer headaches during your drywall project. ✅