Wood screws are essential wood fasteners for countless projects from simple home repairs to large-scale construction. Using the right screw ensures a strong secure hold and a professional finish. Whether you are building furniture, hanging shelves or working on a deck, Ace has the right supplies for your project.
Wood Screw Materials and Coatings
Your screw's material is key to its performance, and we offer options to match the needs of any job.
- Stainless steel wood screws:Highly durable, these screws resist rust and corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor projects or high-moisture areas like kitchens.
- Brass wood screws:Offering a clean, decorative look, brass wood screws are corrosion-resistant and perfect for visible jobs like cabinetry and finishing work.
- Exterior wood screws:These feature special coatings to withstand the elements, providing extra rust and decay protection for outdoor construction. Find more options in our full selection of screws and anchors.
Understanding Wood Screw Sizes
Choosing the right wood screw sizes is key for maximum holding power without damaging your material. Here’s a quick guide:
- Length:Use short wood screws for thin materials or attaching hardware. Choose long wood screws to create strong joints in construction or when joining thick boards.
- Gauge:The gauge is the screw’s diameter. A higher gauge number means a stronger screw, but be sure to match it to the wood’s thickness to prevent splitting.
Common Head Styles for Wood Screws
The head of the screw determines how it will sit on the wood surface and what tool you’ll need. Driving these screws is easier with the right power tools like a reliable cordless drill for general use or an impact driver for bigger jobs.
- Flat head and countersink heads:These are the most common styles for woodworking. Flat head wood screws are designed to finish flush with the material’s surface creating a smooth look.
- Trim head:These have a very small head for a subtle appearance ideal for installing molding or trim.
- Bugle head:The head is curved to prevent tearing the top layer of softer materials like drywall.
- Washer head and round head:These heads remain above the surface and distribute pressure over a wider area which helps when fastening thinner materials.
- Truss head and maxi-loc head:These are oversized heads that provide a strong hold perfect for heavy-duty applications.
Self-Drilling vs. Non-Drilling Wood Screws
Understanding the difference between screw types can save you time and effort.
- Self-drilling screws:These screws have a small notch cut into the tip that acts like a drill bit. This allows the screw to cut its own threads as it is driven into the wood eliminating the need to drill a separate pilot hole.
- Non-drilling screws:Traditional wood screws require you to drill a pilot hole before installing the screw. This method can provide a bit more control and is often preferred for hardwood to prevent splitting.
Shop Wood Screws Near You at Ace Hardware
Find the right wood fasteners for your to-do list at Ace. Shop online and choose from convenient options like free in-store pickup or fast shipping right to your door. Or head to your neighborhood store to get helpful advice from our staff and find wood screws near you. For the toughest jobs, check out our full line of construction screws, deck screws and other essentials from brands like Hillman in the main hardware department.
