Power tools speed the fastening process.
Different construction materials require different methods with which to attach them to other building materials. Drywall, which is prefabricated wallboard made from compressed gypsum, is strong and smooth, but fasteners used with drywall must accommodate its tendency to crumble. Masonry, whether concrete, brick or block, is very hard, and masonry fasteners must withstand the high level of force required to penetrate the solid material.
Drywall Nails and Screws
Two basic fasteners are used to fasten drywall panels to wall and ceiling framing. Drywall nails feature a wide flat head that countersinks easily to form a "dimple" in the drywall panel when tapped with a regular hammer. Drywall screws, inserted with a drill or a drywall screw gun, feature tapered heads that countersink slightly without tearing the paper face of the drywall panel.
Drywall Anchors
Because its gypsum core is unstable, you can't use insert a regular nail or screw into drywall and hang a heavy picture on it. Items hung on drywall must be relatively lightweight, and you will need wall anchors, Molly bolts or toggle bolts that expand once inserted to "grab" the gypsum core for stability or that extend past the drywall and anchor themselves to the other side of the panel.
Hammer Drills for Masonry
Drilling a pilot hole is required to insert bolts and screws into concrete and other types of masonry. A hammer drill combines rapid impact force, or blows per minute (BPM), in combination with a powerful rotary action to drill holes and set concrete screws.
Anchor Bolts for Masonry
Anchor bolts are inserted into hard masonry as well as wet concrete before it sets. Anchor bolts come in many sizes and include nuts that attach to a threaded end for securing wood or steel to the masonry. For brick and block, drilling a hole is required before inserting the bolt.
Powder-Actuated Fasteners for Masonry
Some tools can speed up the process of inserting fasteners into masonry. A powder-actuated fastener tool resembles a hand-held drill, but it works on the same principal as a handgun. Like guns, these tools come with designations like "trigger-operated," "single-shot," "caliber," and "semi-automatic." A firing pin detonates a live powder load, which explodes, shooting the nail or pin into the concrete. Extreme care must be used when operating a powder-actuated tool, although safety mechanisms reduce the chances of accidental misfiring.
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