Whether tackling home projects or working in the construction industry, you are going to need fasteners. There are so many different types to choose from, but these versatile little pieces of metal will be there each time.
It helps to know that you are choosing the right kind of screw, particularly for projects that are largely wood based. Read on to find out more about wood screws and you will become an expert on the matter.
What Wood Screws Are
Before you go searching for wood screws from a quality vendor like RS, it helps to know what you are looking for. Wood screws, as the name implies, are used in making a secure connection between two wooden materials. Wood screws come in a huge array of options as well.
If you are into home improvement or woodworking, you are going to need wood screws at your disposal. They come in different sizes and types, including ones with shanks, twin threads, and tips to avoid having to pre-drill holes. You can use a sizing chart in order to make the right selection, getting you started on your next project in no time at all.
Wood Screw Materials
There are a few important factors when choosing the right wood screw. Knowing the various options will help you to make the right choice when the time comes. Here are the most prominent types of wood screws you will run into.
Steel. Steel is quite common as well and can be fitted without the need to pre-drill a hole thanks to the sharp point at the end. Steel screws can be hardened or zin-plated as well, which provides corrosion resistance and are quite durable.
Stainless steel. Stainless steel can work for a lot of different things and just about all wood materials. Like the other types of wood screws out there, you will find different head types as well. Best of all, stainless steel screws can be used with screwdrivers, impact drivers, and combi drills. They also have great corrosion resistance, making them an ideal fit where moisture exposure is a regular thing.
Brass. Brass is attractive, making it the best choice where aesthetic value is concerned. Most of the time, these are going to be best used with acidic wood materials for optimal durability. Brass screws can have raised, round, or countersunk heads that apply to a litany of different applications. These are also great because they are corrosion-resistant, making them perfect for outdoor applications.
Wood Screw Head Types
As there are different material types, there are also wood screw head types. There are three types that you will probably run into at some point in your home improvement journey, so they will become the most relevant for your needs.
Hex head. Hex are becoming quite popular because they are versatile in terms of size and have excellent corrosion prevention. They are also versatile in terms of use, being perfect for landscaping, timber construction projects, and roofing. When it comes to fixing wooden materials in support of heavier loads, hex head is the way to go.
Countersunk head. Countersunk head screws are meant to be either flush with the surface or just below it. The head has a canonical-shaped hole, and the cross-section of the countersink will range from 60-120 degrees in diameter.
Round head. For the most part, you will find that round-head screws have double countersunk heads. These are best when using a carpenter’s screwdriver and are probably the easiest to install and drive. If you don’t need these to sit below the surface, round-head screws are great.
