15 · Power Tools

Drywall Driver

Also called Screw gun · Drywall screwdriver · Collated screw gun

A screw gun with a depth stop that sets drywall screws to exactly the right depth, every time, at speed.

Electric (corded)

Overview

A drywall driver drives screws until a nose cone reaches the board, then disengages the clutch. The screw ends up set just below the paper surface without tearing it.

That consistency is the point: a screw left proud shows through the finish, and one driven too deep has no holding power.

It runs much faster than a normal drill-driver over a wall full of screws, and will not round the screw heads.

Set the depth on an offcut before starting the room.

Best uses

Hanging drywall and plasterboard
Ceiling board
Any job with hundreds of screws at one depth

Not suited for

General screwdriving in wood or metal, where a drill-driver is more flexible

Troubleshooting

Find a symptom

Screws go straight through the paper

Checks to try, in order

Back the depth stop out a little and test on an offcut.
Hold the gun square to the board.
Check the bit is not worn — a rounded bit slips and tears.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Screws sit proud of the surface

Checks to try, in order

Wind the depth stop in a little.
Check you are hitting the stud squarely — a screw that misses the stud will never set.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Tripped GFCI or breaker
Lock-off button
Damaged cord
Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Circuit overloaded
Undersized extension cord
Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

Stop and unplug the tool.
Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Safety

Check for cables and pipes behind the board before screwing off a wall.
Eye protection — screws snap and bits shatter.

For electric (corded)

Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.