Screws are considered one of the most effective fasteners and are essential to any toolkit. Their versatility means that no matter what type of construction project you are undertaking, you will require them to help get the job done.

However, an issue that can often arise is knowing exactly which type of screw is best for your particular project. There are dozens of styles, each with its own properties, strengths, and purposes. One of the most popular types of screws, particularly for woodwork and carpentry projects, is the timber screw.

This article will explore exactly what a timber screw is and its primary uses. It will also highlight the different types of timber screws and when they are best used.

What is a Timber Screw?

As the name would suggest, a timber screw is a type of screw that has been specifically designed for woodworking and carpentry purposes. They are used to attach two pieces of wood together. They come in various lengths and materials so that you can use them for many types of wood, including MDF, chipboard, and hard and softwood.

They are usually designed with a flat head so that they can rest flush against the wood’s surface once installed. This is so they are less visible once the structure is complete, allowing them to be painted over or covered with wood putty. However, there are also round-headed varieties for you to select from.

The shank is tapered with aggressive threading so that as the screw is installed, it can bite firmly into the wood material and remain in place effectively. They are also designed with diamond points, meaning there is no longer a need to drill a pilot hole first.

Types of Timber Screws

As mentioned, there are countless types of screws out there, and even when it comes to just timber screws, there is still a variety to choose from. As well as the standard wood screw, you may wish to consider the following types depending on your project.

Deck screws

Deck screws are very similar to standard wood screws in their design. However, they are typically made from stainless steel or copper and coated with chemicals to prevent corrosion.

This is because, as the name suggests, they will most likely be outside facing the elements.

Deck screws usually have broader heads, longer shanks, and slightly more aggressive threading to ensure they can handle the heavier outdoor loads.

Pocket screws

Pocket screws are generally used as fasteners for more delicate woodworking. They are best used for attachments made close to the edge of the wood piece. A split in the wood here can impact the integrity of the entire construction piece, so pocket screws have self-drilling heads to reduce the risk of damaging the bottom piece of wood being connected.

Additionally, they have larger heads to ensure there is less chance of ruining the top piece of wood.

Lag screws

Also known as lag bolts, this type of screw is intended to connect heavier boards. As such, they will generally have longer shanks and much more aggressive threading.

They also have a different type of head than most other types of wood screws. Rather than a flat or rounded head, they have hexagonal-shaped heads. This is because they need to be tightened with a socket wrench to ensure the fastening is as secure as possible.

How to Choose the Correct Screw

For each type of timber wood, there are still several other considerations you will need to make when deciding exactly which screw is right for you, such as:

• Material - screws are made from several types of metal, including stainless steel, aluminium, and copper. Some materials are harder than others. Some are most resistant to corrosion. Some simply look nicer. Make sure you understand the properties of each material before deciding which is best for your project.
• Dimensions - screws come in all shapes and sizes. As a general rule, the longer and thicker the screw shaft, the higher the burden they will be able to manage. Carefully consider the requirements of your project to determine which size screw will be the most suitable.
• Head type - most timber screws come with a flat head. This is because they are intended to countersink into the wood to ensure maximum attachment and the potential to cover the screw with either paint or putty easily. However, there may be times when a round-headed timber screw is more suitable.
• Self-drilling - as mentioned, most timber screws come with diamond points, meaning they can enter the wood directly without needing a pilot hole. However, this can carry a risk to the wood. Additionally, some screw drive shapes on top of the screw are better than others when it comes to attaching more fragile wood pieces.

Which screw drive head type should I use?

There was a time when the only option for most timber screws in terms of the screw drive was the Phillips head screw (usually in the shape of a cross). However, there are now a few more options for you to select from.

Slothead

As the name suggests, this is a simple slot at the top of the screw. They can be inserted using a flathead screwdriver.

Square drive

These are usually found on pocket screws as they generally have the lowest risk of the driver slipping during installation. However, they can also be found on screws designed for much heavier attachments.

Starhead

These are also known as Torx screws and have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are able to generate more torque during the installation process and are generally considered to be easier to manage when it comes to removal.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right timber screw for your project can be a little overwhelming, particularly if you are new to DIY. Each type comes with its own advantages and disadvantages over others. The best way to be sure you are choosing the correct option is to know precisely what it will take to bring your project together and make the selection based on what you learn.

At Trade Warehouse, we have been selling top-quality trade goods and supplies to customers all across Australia for over ten years. Our partners are some of the most trusted manufacturers in the country, and we are committed to delivering a first-class service from order to delivery.

If there is a product that you cannot find in our catalogue, contact us today, and we will do our best to secure it. Additionally, why not check out our guide to metal screws.