Whether you are an industry professional or a homeowner carrying out a DIY project, choosing the right size and length of a wood screw is very important.
From the type of project you are undertaking to the type of wood you want to use, there are quite a few considerations you need to keep in mind.
We at Buy Woodscrews have outlined some tips for choosing the right size of wood screws. Read on:
Clearly Identify the Goals of Your Project
Before you go on choosing the size of the wood screw, you need to define the goal of your project.
For instance, you might be working on hardwoods. For this, you would not want a screw that is so small that it does not hold the two boards together. You also do not want it so big that its tip protrudes through the backside.
Consider the Type of Wood Screw Being Used
When it comes to wood screws, there are generally two types – stainless steel wood screws and utility wood screws.
Stainless steel wood screws have thicker structures. This makes them suitable for indoor woodworks, such as furniture.
Utility screws, on the other hand, are generally used for outdoor woodworking projects.
When choosing screws for them, lengths and gauge numbers (thickness of screw shaft) need to be taken into account.
The gauge numbers for utility screws is generally 8 or 10. Steel wood screws come in many varieties of gauge diameters.
Lateral or Withdrawal Loads – Consider the Kinds of Forces that Will Be Applied
When choosing the size of the screw, it is important that you consider the loads that will be applied during the course.
If lateral pressure will be applied, you might want to go for a thicker screw.
On the other hand, if withdrawal pressure is to be applied, you should make sure that around 1 to 1-1/2 inches of thread is inserted on the receiving board. Again, length of the screw should not be such that it comes out through the other side of the board.
Take Grain Orientation into Account
Finally, when choosing the length of the screw, grain orientation of the receiving board should be considered.
The screws that are responsible for combining the two boards should not be too long. The screws that will be etched on the end grain should be slightly longer.
We at Buy Woodscrews have got a wide variety and sizes of best wood screws. From low torque screws to rust resistant screws, we have got many options. Shop with us!