Difference Between Wood And Metal Screws

The various types.

Difference between wood and metal screws.

Deck screws have coarse threads corrosion resistant coatings and sharp points and they hold up well to outdoor use. The smaller the gage number the smaller the screw diameter opposite of nails and wire diameter. A gage number like 6 is the diameter and the length is the length of the screw that goes into the wood not inclusive of the head unless it s a flat head. Hopefully this gives you a better understanding of the differences between metal and wood screws.

To recap metal and wood screws share several common characteristics. Screws are amazingly versatile and powerful fasteners. This is used to attach pieces of wood together and they come in different shapes and sizes. A wood screw is a general term that is used to describe a metal screw with a sharp point and a flat head.

Typically the threads extend from tip to head. They are driven using the same tools. You can find them in the same sizes. While a sheet metal screw can be used to securely fasten wooden pieces a wood screw with a smooth shank portion won t create a tight joint in sheet metal and fully threaded wood screws may hold poorly.

Sheet metal screws are generally manufactured to a higher standard than ordinary wood screws. As per the name deck screws secure pressure treated lumber used in decks fences and other outdoor structures. Over time the fragile connection between wood and metal deteriorates as these different materials move in different ways. Although this is some times called a wood tapping screw it is basically a sheet metal design.

Many people carry a notion that screws are all the same. And they are even available in the same materials. Basic difference between metal screws and wood screws. Be sure to drill an adequate body hole in the first board to prevent a jaced joint.

Both types of screws are readily available in lengths between 1 4 inch and 3 inches adequate for just about any household fastening job. Fasteners such as screws are extensively used in hardware industries and they are available in huge varieties and patterns so as to meet various industry requirements. The basic concept is a threaded cylinder that is used for holding all sorts of things together including wood plastic and metal. Seasonal wood movement can eventually crumble the fragile interface between the wood and the threads of the screw enlarging the hole like a clamp a screw isn t really a permanent fastener.

Different types of screws have been developed to maximize efficacy for particular applications. For the best quality stainless steel screws of any variety pay a visit to marsh fasteners. Wood screws are tapered and thread count is not part of the description. If you are unable to visually tell the difference between wood and metal screws your hardware dealer or fastener supplier will be able to tell you.