Choosing the best screws for Hardie board ensures strong, moisture-resistant, and long-lasting installations for cement backer boards commonly used in tile, countertop, and exterior siding projects. Below is a summary table of top-performing products selected for their quality, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with Hardie board and other cement boards.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Jake Sales #10×1-1/4″ Cement Board Screws | Jake Sales | Sharp point, ceramic coated, corrosion resistant, fits all cement boards |
| Rock-On 9×1-1/4″ Serrated Head Screws | Rock On | Serrated head, star drive, sharp serrated thread for immediate pick-up |
| Jake Sales #10×1-5/8″ Drill Point Cement Screws | Jake Sales | Drill point, ceramic coated, corrosion resistant, for metal studs |
| Goldblatt Cement Board Tape & Screws Kit | Goldblatt | Includes fiberglass tape, rust resistant screws, T-25 star drive |
| Hard-to-Find Fastener #8×1-1/4 Steel Screws | Hard-to-Find Fastener | Steel construction, #8 diameter, 1-1/4 inch length |
Jake Sales #10×1-1/4″ Cement Board Screws
These cement board screws from Jake Sales feature a sharp point designed for fast and effective fastening of cement or tile backer boards like Hardiebacker, WonderBoard, and PermaBase DuRock to wood. Manufactured from high-quality heat-treated steel, they offer excellent corrosion resistance through a ceramic coating. The Torx T-25 star head allows for increased torque transfer and reduced cam-out, improving installation speed and durability. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects requiring strong, moisture-resistant fastening solutions.
Rock-On 9 x 1-1/4″ Serrated Head Star Drive Screws
The Rock-On serrated head screws provide a secure flush seat when fastening cement boards, reducing surface damage. Their sharp-pointed, serrated hi-low threads promote immediate grip on materials, making them highly effective for penetrating Hardie board and underlying wood studs. The star drive with a T-25 bit eases one-handed installations, minimizing driver slippage. These zinc-coated screws combine ease of use with corrosion protection suitable for wet and high-moisture environments.
Jake Sales #10×1-5/8″ Drill Point Cement Board Screws
This variant of Jake Sales cement board screws features a drill point designed specifically for attaching Hardie board to metal studs. Made from heat-treated steel and ceramic coated for corrosion resistance, they provide durability in heavy-duty applications. The Torx T-25 star head ensures reduced stripping and firm grip during installation. Ideal for contractors or DIYers working with metal framing, these screws excel in fastening boards securely while minimizing material splitting and surface crack risks.
Goldblatt Cement Board Tape and Screws Set
The Goldblatt set combines alkali-resistant fiberglass mesh tape with 150 rust-resistant concrete screws to address both fastening and joint reinforcement needs for cement board installations. The self-adhesive tape reduces taping time and resists tearing and shrinkage, offering long-term durability. Its screws feature a sharp point for immediate pickup and a star drive for easier installation, making this kit perfect for showers, backsplashes, countertops, and floors where moisture is prevalent. This all-in-one solution simplifies repair and installation projects.
Hard-to-Find Fastener #8×1-1/4″ Cement Board Screws
The Hard-to-Find Fastener cement board screws are straightforward steel screws sized #8 by 1-1/4 inches. While simpler than some coated options, they provide sufficient strength and reliability for securing Hardie boards to wood studs. Ideal for those who prefer basic, uncoated screws with proven performance, they are suitable for dry interior applications where corrosion is less of a concern. Their sharp points enable easy penetration into backer board and framing members.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Screws for Hardie Board
Screw Type and Point Design
Selecting screws designed specifically for cement board is critical. Sharp or drill point screws facilitate easier penetration through dense boards, reducing the risk of cracking and splitting. Drill point screws are favored when fastening to metal studs, while sharp point screws work well for wood framing.
Material and Coatings
Corrosion resistance is essential since cement boards often install in moisture-rich environments such as bathrooms and exterior siding. Screws coated with ceramic, ceramic zinc, or rust-resistant finishes prolong lifespan and prevent rust stains or failure over time.
Drive Type
Star drive (Torx T-25) heads are the industry standard for cement board screws. They reduce cam-out and stripping compared to Phillips heads, enabling faster and more secure installation with minimal screw head damage.
Thread Design
Serrated or hi-low thread screws provide better grip and pullout resistance. This feature helps maintain board stability even under stress or vibration. Serrated heads also help countersink screws flush to the board surface.
Length and Diameter
Common screw sizes for Hardie board range from 1-1/4″ to 1-5/8″. Longer lengths are necessary when fastening to metal studs or through thicker boards for a solid hold. Diameter #8 or #10 are typical, balancing strength and ease of driving.
Intended Application
- Wood framing: Choose sharp point screws with corrosion-resistant coatings.
- Metal studs: Use drill point screws capable of penetrating metal.
- Joint reinforcement: Consider kits with fiberglass tape and compatible screws.
- Outdoor/wet areas: Prioritize rust-resistant coatings for durability.
Overall, the best screws for Hardie board combine durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation to ensure your cement board projects remain strong and moisture resistant for years.