I really REALLY love the John Sterling Fast Mount Shelving system. I use it all over my house.
Presently I have been using #8 2-1/2" drywall Screws to attach the wall standards to the wall.
As of yet, I have had zero issues. I use these shelving systems for everything. My desk, bookshelves for my roleplaying book collection, wood storage, everything.
As I said, no issues… However, I have recently learned that these are not the best screws to use for this application considering the amount of shearing forces that this system places on the screws.
What would be a better alternative? I know that John Sterling sells a screw pack for these standards but they are overpriced and nearly impossible to find. I would like whatever suggestion I can get.
Also, learned that these standards use #10 screws not #8. So yeah Thank you in advance.
Here is a link to the standards on Menards so you can see what I am talking about.
John Sterling Fast Mount Wall Standards
And here are the screws that John Sterling sells for them.
John Sterling Fast Mount Wall Standard Wall Mounting Screws
Basically, I am looking for a readily available alternative to these screws to replace the drywall screws I am currently using.
EDIT: I am driving the screws into the studs. Just a clarification.
Best Answer
The factory screws look like #10 sheet metal screws with a flat head, just eyeballing it. You will want screws the same size so that the head fits just-right in the hole, too big and they won't sit flush. Sheet metal screws will be stronger than drywall screws, but wood screws or construction screws will be stronger than sheet metal screws.