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Betsy D. Vanderslice

Guide to Screws

The importance of using deck screws when constructing outdoor spaces


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Wood screws are perfect for indoor jobs or woodworking projects. However, some people mistakenly believe they are sufficient to use when constructing a deck. They are not. Deck screws have many additional features that make them essential to building a deck that will last for years. It is essential that you use these screws when building a deck.

Wood screws and deck screws share some features such as threads, which help them grab wood and glide in place easier. But you must remember the additional demands a deck screw needs to meet when designing your next job:

1. Deck screws must be able to withstand the weather without rusting

2. Deck screws must countersink (lay flat) on the surface once they are in place

3. Deck screws must have the ability to stay in place without working their way out of the wood over time

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a distributor of screws who will give bulk discounts


When your career is building the decks of people's dreams, you want to buy your industrial screws at the best price possible. Many screw vendors pass along savings when you purchase more screws.

I recommend: Aaron's General Store.com offers a wide variety of deck screws and gives discount rates if you order by the carton. Buy wholesale from Barnhill Bolt. They have been in business for 46 years.

Buy industrial screws custom made for the job


Perhaps you have a client who wants to use a certain type of wood with an unusual thickness or an odd color. Keep your customer happy by using custom screws to get the job done. They help you achieve the perfect outcome by allowing you get exactly what you need.

I recommend: Complete the custom/specialty form at Associated Fastening Products, Inc. for a free quote. Chicago Nut & Bolt specializes in specialty, non-standard screws. Contact them directly for more information.

Find the best industrial screw thread for durability in decks


Choose a screw thread with a shallower degree measurement. The threads spread out the force making it easier to put in but still difficult to pull out. That is important because screws may work their way out with the weight of foot traffic and other demands placed on decks.

I recommend: After you have determined the best thread size for the job, request a free quote from Hodell-Natco Industries or Fastener Solutions, Inc.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • The newest decks made of composite material require specially designed screws because the material has a tendency to mushroom around the countersinking head of standard deck screws. Make sure you buy the correct custom screw to avoid that problem.
  • Use the right finish for outdoors. Galvanized, ceramic-coated and stainless steel screws are a few which will not stain most types of wood.

The official source of Screws is the Screws page at Business.com


Featured Vendors

J.I. Morris Company: Miniature Screws
Manufacturer of miniature number/metric metal machine/self tap screws, nuts, washers, turn parts, taps & plug gages in stock and to order: 56-400TPI.
www.morris01550.com

Find Industrial Screw Manufacturers at IQS® Directory
Browse Our Comprehensive List of Leading Industrial Screw Manufacturers with Information, Preview Ads, Links and Request for Quote Tool.
IQSDirectory.com/Industrial-Screws

GlobalSpec.com: Screws
Provides database of suppliers for screws. Includes catalogs, technical information, and supplier contact information.
mechanical-components.globalspec.com

Ball Screws Resource
Find Ball Screws. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your local area now.
JustClickLocal.com

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