If you plan on building a deck, you need to have more than a plan, and you need to know what tools will be the most suitable for your project. Decking requires the use of screws, and the options available are innumerable.
So, if you are a novice, figuring out the different types of deck screws, let alone which are ones are suitable for your project, can be a challenge. The first step should be to educate yourself about deck screws and the available different kinds.
To start you on your journey, here are some different types of deck screws and their benefits.
Wood Deck Screws
Wood decking screws are often used for fastening deck boards. They are tough and durable, and easy to work with. They don’t split or rust, and they can be used on almost any type of wood.
They are the most commonly used screws for decking. They are easy to work with, and some of them are self-drilling.
Composite Deck Screws
These deck screws are used for fastening composite deck boards. Made from high-grade steel, they are durable and corrosion resistant.
These screws are engineered for torque performance, and they feature an auger tip for fast drilling and reverse threads to prevent mushrooming.
Structural Screws
Structural screws are extremely hard and rugged lag screws that feature a flat head with a star, square, or Torx head drive. They have auger tips and threads for easy and quick drilling.
They don’t snap off or slip. They are made from stainless steel, and some come coated. This makes them extremely durable and resistant to rust or corrosion.
Structural screws are typically used fastening structural framings.
Hidden Deck Board Fasteners
These screws are the most visually attractive of deck board fasteners. They are used for fastening grooved boards, and the reason they are so popular is that they leave a clean look.
However, they are not strong as other deck screws, and therefore, should be used together with other much stronger screws.
How to Choose the Best Screws for a Deck
With a huge array of deck screws to choose from, it can be difficult figuring out which ones are the best for your deck project. So, here are some helpful tips to help you out.
Type of screw
Deck screws vary in size and design. Depending on the deck board’s thickness, this should help you determine what type of screws to buy. Some prefer to use nails instead, but the advantage of deck screws is that they are stronger than nails. They are also coated to make corrosion-resistant.
Easy to install
If you are constructing a deck from scratch or repairing it, use screws that are easy to install. This particularly important if you have worked on a deck or build one before.
Budget
Some deck screws are more expensive than others. Your budget is going to be determined by the type of screws your decking project requires. The good thing is that most deck screws are quite affordable. The one thing you should avoid is using them improperly to avoid damaging them. Otherwise, if you handle them poorly, you’ll end up buying new ones.
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