Materials and Screw Types
Some screws, thanks to their different qualities, are better suited to different materials.
Here’s our ultimate guide for construction and building materials, and the right types of screws they will need!
Hardwood
Twin thread screws are the best to use on hardwood thanks to their easy start up and driving abilities. For internal use, the best type would be zinc plated twin threads, or brass screws for outdoor use.
Soft Wood and Chipboard
Single thread screws are best for soft wood due to their strength and high pull out retention – they wont cause as much damage if they need to be removed. Countersunk screws, preferable zinc plated, are the best to use for this.
MDF
Single thread screws with a twin thread start are suited to MDF materials – the twin thread start makes the first “biting” twist easy.
Metal
Self tapping screws are recommended more often than not for use with metal. Self tapping screws cut their own thread and make their own hole as they’re drilled into. The ideal materials would be stainless steel or zinc plated screws for this use.
Plasterboard
Drywall screws are best used with plasterboard thanks to their sharp piercing point and bugle head for a flush finish.
Decking
For decking, sharp point single thread screws with a countersunk head are recommended to be used. They’ll pierce the surface of the decking, minimise jacking and splitting and provide a flush finish.