This may seem like an easy task for DIY, but if you don't know what screws to use and the best methods for inserting, then you could end up with a disaster on your hands.

To help you avoid any unnecessary repair expenses (or becoming immensley frustrated with the task), we’ve created an easy how-to guide for screwing into plasterboard for beginners.

You’ll be hanging up your new shelves or picture frames like a pro in no time!

Why is plasterboard so tricky to work with?

The problem with plasterboard lies in how it’s made; it’s essentially a gypsum core wrapped in paper.

Now, if that doesn’t already tell you everything you need to know about screwing into plasterboard, we don’t know what to tell you. Unlike brick or timber, if you attempt to fix something directly onto it, you’ll end up with a hole in the wall or screws that fall out.

Unless you’re anchoring into a stud (which isn’t always conveniently placed), the board alone can’t offer much support. You also never know what you’re going to drive into; there could be pipes, wires, or studs lurking behind it.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

So, when it comes to screwing into plasterboard, the key to success is all about making sure you’re using the right tools for the job.

Screwdriver or drill (use a drill for a quicker job)
Suitable screws (ones which can handle the weight of the fixture)
Wall plugs or anchors (provide extra grip)
Stud finder (helps locate the wooden studs behind the plasterboard)
Measuring tape and pencil (for accurate placement)
Spirit level (to ensure your item hangs straight)

Don’t forget! Always wear PPE, such as a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy boots, when working with power tools or flying debris.

What screws do I need?

Most of the time, homeowners will need to use a coarse thread screw with a bugle head for typical home DIY improvements.

These are so popular because they sit flush with the surface, creating a sleek finish. They often come with special coatings to prevent rust and corrosion. Self-drilling plasterboard fixings are also a great choice, as they provide a better grip than standard screws.

Spring or butterfly toggles are also great fasteners for hanging medium or heavy objects. These open up behind the board to spread the weight across a wider surface area to prevent the board from tearing under the pressure.

How to screw into plasterboard

Once you’ve gathered all of your tools and found the right screws for the job, it’s time to dig into the process.

Don’t forget your PPE!

1. Measure twice, mark once

Before installing any screws, you’ll need to mark and locate where they need to go. Use a pencil and spirit level to add your marking and make sure everything is straight and centred.

If it’s a shelf you’re installing, double-check it lines up with others nearby. For people adding multiple pictures or artwork, lay out the design on the floor first to get the spacing and placement right, then transfer the positions onto the wall.

2. Check for studs and hidden pipes

The worst thing that can happen is accidentally driling into a pipe or wire and paying the cost for that mistake.

To avoid this disaster, use a stud finder to help locate the timber battens for extra support. Studs usually run at regular intervals (every 400mm or 600mm centre-to-centre), so if you find one, chances are others are nearby.

If you don’t have a stud finder, use the old technique of knocking on the wall with your knuckles. A hollow sound means you’re between studs, while a duller, more solid sound means you’ve likely hit one.

For those worried about hidden pipes and wires, use a multi-scanner to detect metal and live wires behind the plasterboard.

3. Pick your fixing and drill a pilot hole

Depending on what fixing you’re using to drill into your plasterboard, you’ll need to prepare for each one differently.

Self-drilling plasterboard fixings can go straight into the board with a screwdriver.
Spring toggles and metal anchors may need a pre-drilled hole, usually around 10–14mm depending on the fitting.
GripIt fixings require a flat-blade drill bit (supplied in their kits), followed by a gentle tap to lock them in.

When drilling into plasterboard, you’ll need to be more careful than you would for a brick. Adding too much pressure when drilling could lead to tears in the wall (for this reason, avoid using the hammer setting).

4. Insert the wall plug

If you’re using plasterboard screws, it’s best to insert a wall plug beforehand to provide a more secure grip (plasterboard needs all the help it can get).

Wall plugs come in different lengths and thicknesses, so make sure it matches the requirements of the screws you’re using for a tight fit. You can find ones designed specifically for plasterboard.

Once your hole is drilled (and the dust brushed away), push the wall plug in gently. It should slide in with a firm push. If it feels too tight, twist it slightly or widen the hole by a millimetre.

5. Insert your screw/ fixing

Make sure that you’re positioned straight to avoid the fixing going in at an angle (trust us, it happens more than you think). You can use a manual screwdriver or a drill to drive your screw into the plasterboard, but keep it on a low torque setting to avoid damage.

The fixing should bite the board as you turn it into position without coming loose or tearing the surface. The initial resistance indicates that it is beginning to take hold. When it's flat against the wall, stop rotating; this is where many people make the mistake of overtightening.

If you're using spring toggles or metal cavity anchors, insert the fixing into the pre-drilled hole and tighten the screw slightly to ‘open’ the mechanism behind the board.

For gripIts’, tap the fixing into place lightly with a hammer and use a flat-head screwdriver to turn the locking wings behind the wall. Once they’re locked in place, pop in the screw.

What Can I Hang on Plasterboard (And What Shouldn’t I)?

It may be tempting to just throw anything at your plasterboard and hope it’ll stick (but please refrain if you want to keep your walls intact).

Just so you’re not left scratching your head, we’ve included some common hangings and whether or not they’re compatible with plasterboard.

Go for it:

Picture frames
Coat hooks
Wall clocks
Towel rails
Lightweight shelves

Think twice or use heavy-duty fixings:

TVs
Large mirrors
Kitchen cabinets
Pull-up bars

If in doubt, aim for the studs or choose a stronger fixing system.

Ensure a successful installation with high-quality plasterboard

The installation is only as good as the materials you’re using. Without great quality plasterboard, you’ll be left with more loose screws and holes to fix than you can count.

Luckily for you, we stock a full range of high-quality plasterboard built to handle whatever your project throws at it. From insulated boards to moisture-resistant plasterboard, we’ve got something for every DIY expert and professional builder.