What is the most commonly recommended maximum distance between fasteners when installing drywall without adhesive?

When installing drywall without adhesive, the most commonly recommended maximum distance between fasteners is 12 inches. This guideline helps ensure that the drywall remains securely attached to the framing, preventing sagging and maintaining a smooth surface. Fastening drywall at this interval allows for adequate support and minimizes the potential for joints to crack over time. Proper spacing of fasteners is critical in the installation process to ensure structural integrity and longevity of the drywall installation.

In comparison, other distances such as 8 inches or 16 inches might be used in specific scenarios but are not the standard for regular drywall installation without adhesive. For instance, while 8 inches may provide extra security, it can lead to unnecessary labor and material costs, as well as increased time for installation. Similarly, 16 inches is often used for installations where additional structural support is not as critical, yet it does not align with the common practice for non-adhesive installations.