How to Choose the Right Screw or Nail for Wood, Brick, and Plasterboard

Not all fixings are created equal. If you’ve ever had a screw pull loose or a nail bend halfway in, chances are you were using the wrong fastener for the job. Whether you’re hanging a shelf, fixing skirting, or mounting something heavy, choosing the right screw or nail for the material is crucial. Here’s a practical guide to help you make the right choice for wood, brick, and plasterboard.

1. Fixings for Wood: Go for Grip and Precision

Wood is one of the most common materials used in DIY and construction. It’s strong and flexible, but it requires the right fixing to avoid splitting or weak joints.

Best fixings:

• Wood screws – Designed with sharp threads to grip and hold securely.

• Nails (common, brad, or finishing) – Ideal for speed and when shear strength is needed.


Top tip:
Pre-drill a pilot hole when using screws in hardwood to prevent splitting.

Best use cases:

• Use screws for furniture assembly, cabinetry, and joining planks.

• Use nails for fencing, decking, and quick frame construction.


Recommended sizes:

• Screws: 3.5–5mm diameter, 25–75mm length depending on wood thickness.

• Nails: 40mm for general use, brads for finishing touches.


2. Fixings for Brick: Anchors Are Essential

Brick and masonry are tough but brittle — driving a screw or nail directly into them won’t work. You need fixings that can expand within the material for a secure hold.

Best fixings:

• Wall plugs (rawl plugs) and masonry screws

• Frame fixings for heavy loads like door frames or external piping

• Nails (masonry nails) only for light-duty, non-load-bearing jobs


Top tip:
Always drill a pilot hole with a masonry bit and insert a wall plug before screwing into brick.

Best use cases:

• Shelves, curtain rails, and wall brackets

• Outdoor fixtures like hose reels and signage


Recommended sizes:

• Plugs: 6–10mm diameter depending on screw size and load

• Screws: Length should be at least 40mm for light items, 70mm+ for heavy loads


3. Fixings for Plasterboard: Light and Fragile

Plasterboard (drywall) is light and hollow, which makes it tricky to fix to. Standard screws or nails won’t hold — you need hollow-wall or specialist fixings.

Best fixings:

• Plasterboard screws for direct-to-stud fixing

• Cavity wall anchors, toggle bolts, or spiral plugs for hollow spaces


Top tip:
Avoid over-tightening screws in plasterboard — it can strip the hole or damage the board.

Best use cases:

• Hanging mirrors, picture frames, curtain poles

• Wall-mounted storage or TV brackets


Recommended types:

• Light loads: Plastic spiral plugs

• Medium loads: Spring toggle or self-drill anchors

• Heavy loads: Mount directly into wall studs if possible


Conclusion

Matching the right screw or nail to your material is key to building things that last. Here’s a quick recap:

• Wood: Wood screws or nails, depending on load and speed.

• Brick: Use plugs and masonry screws; never screw directly into brick.

• Plasterboard: Use specialised hollow-wall fixings unless you’re screwing into a stud.


By taking the time to choose the right fixing, you’ll save yourself from failures, frustration, and repeat jobs. Your projects — and your walls — will thank you.