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Can You Reuse Drywall Screws?

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Pete Fazio | Last updated Feb 6, 2025 2:00 PM ET

Reusing drywall screws might seem like a practical way to save time and money, but it’s not always the best choice. These screws are specifically designed to work with drywall, and their thin, brittle construction can pose challenges when reused. So is it worth holding onto your drywall screws or should you start fresh instead?

Why Reusing Drywall Screws Can Be Risky

Reusing them is possible, but they might be less reliable, and certainly not usually worth the time. They're designed to penetrate drywall and framing materials without splitting them. While this makes them great for their intended purpose, it also means they are more prone to damage than sturdier screws.

Weakened Threads: Removing it from its original position can strip its threads, reducing its ability to grip securely when reused. The threads could also be clogged with compacted drywall dust lessening their ability to hold.
Brittleness: Drywall screws are made from hardened steel, which makes them strong but brittle. This brittleness increases the risk of breakage when reused, especially if they were overtightened
Rust Concerns: If the screws were exposed to moisture, they might have rust or corrosion, further weakening their integrity.

When Reusing Might Work

There are times when reusing them could be acceptable, but the circumstances are limited. If you’re unsure whether your reused screws will hold securely, err on the side of caution and opt for new ones. Consider these guidelines:

Dry, Undamaged Screws: If they show no signs of rust, bending, or stripping, they may still be usable for light-duty applications.
Temporary Projects: Reused screws can work for non-structural tasks, like hanging lightweight items or mock-ups.
Proper Tools: Ensure you have a power drill and the correct bit to reinstall the screws smoothly without over-tightening.

What's the final word on reusing drywall screws?

It's all a matter of common sense and time vs money. "Reuse" means you're doing demo on your house and rather than knocking down walls with a sledge hammer you're removing each screw from the drywall and saving them in your pocket. Not very likely that you're wasting all that time when a box of like 6,000 drywall screws is around $50. You'll have those forever if you're not a drywall installer. That being said, if I built Fido's doghouse with drywall screws (because I have 6,000 of them) and in 10 years I disassemble Fido's doghouse to a build one for Fifi, I'd most likely reuse the screws.

FAQ

Can I reuse drywall screws for wood projects?

Yes, could can be reused for wood projects in some cases. However, their thin construction makes them more prone to snapping under high stress, so they’re not the best option for structural woodwork or projects requiring heavy-duty fasteners.

What happens if a drywall screw breaks during removal?

If a screw snaps while you’re removing it, you’ll need to extract the remaining piece using pliers or a screw extractor bit on your drill. For screws that break flush with the surface, drilling around the broken piece or filling the hole with wood filler may be necessary to continue your project.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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