8 Drywall Tools You Need to Have in Your Collection

The right tools can make the difference between an easy, successful drywall project and a frustrating, error-filled trainwreck. Knowing which tools to add to your collection and understanding how to use them properly are both components of becoming a better home improver. Here are eight must-have drywall tools that can help equip you for anything your next project throws at you.

Jab saw

The jab saw is basically only useful for cutting drywall and is thus highly specialized within your collection – but when you need it, you really need it. It is essentially a serrated knife with a tip sharp enough to easily penetrate drywall but not so sharp that it will cut your finger when you apply light pressure. The jab saw is made for cutting holes in drywall and for cuts from six to eight inches in length.

Electric drywall saw

It is virtually impossible to replace the efficiency of an electric drywall saw. It’s ability to easily cut through a sheet of drywall makes it invaluable on large-scale projects. It may not always be needed, but when it is, its speed and precision make a tremendous difference. Some think a jab saw can substitute for an electric drywall saw on most occasions, but that’s simply not the case. When you need a fast, clean, powerful cut, you need an electric drywall saw.

Drywall knives in 12-inch and 4- or 6-inch sizes

Drywall knives are a highly specialized item, so other types of putty knives simply won’t work as a replacement. These are rather inexpensive and thus can be easily replaced when worn or damaged. The shorter 4- and 6-inch sizes are ideal for slopping mud into place and for taping, while the longer 12-inch size is used for feathering and final coats.

Cordless drill

Drywall used to be fastened almost exclusively with a hammer and nail. Today, screw guns provide much greater efficiency and are able to automatically load up the next screw when the job is ready for it. The increased power of an 18-volt drill (versus 12-volt) easily draws screws into wood studs without any concern of durability. A drill with a clutch helps the bit stop turning when screws are fully driven in and prevents stripping of the screw head. Cordless drills provide a torque-control advantage over their corded counterparts, as well.

Utility knife

There’s a good chance a utility knife is already a staple within your tool collection and can be a great asset to drywall work. Be sure to not use a utility knife with snap-off blades, but instead use one with interchangeable blades that set into a screw-down handle. This provides greater stability and safety throughout the job.

Abrasive and non-abrasive sanding sponges

It’s important to have one of both types of these sponges in your arsenal. An abrasive sanding sponge has both a coarse and a smooth side, while the non-abrasive sponge is smooth on both sides and is used for wet sanding. You shouldn’t rely on these handheld sponges for all your sanding purposes, but they are great for minor touch-ups.

Sanding pole

The sanding pole provides a larger and more versatile option compared to the sponges. Its reach and flexibility allows you to easily sand ceilings and corners and provides an even and consistent finish throughout the project.

Drywall screws

Drywall screws are now the fastener of choice – not nails – and come in both coarse-thread and fine-thread varieties. Coarse-thread screws draw easily into wood studs and are usable for a wide range of other home improvement projects, while fine-thread screws are best-suited for metal framing. A 5/8-inch screw is the most practical length for a typical drywall project.

For more than 30 years, Al’s Taping Tools has provided the highest quality and most extensive selection of drywall tools, parts, and accessories. We can proudly say we are the largest independently owned drywall tool supplier in the world – and that is all thanks to our customer loyalty and support. Contact us today for hands-on assistance on your next drywall project and let’s get working.