Using Self-Tapping Screws

In any type of construction job, knowing the different kinds of screws available is essential. Certain projects require specific fasteners and self-tapping screws are one of the many options you can use. These fasteners have cutting threads on their shanks and sharp-pointed or drill pointed tips that allow them to drive into a material and cut their own mating threads unlike a machine screw which requires a nut. Many contractors love using these fasteners because they make attaching materials like wood so much easier. 

Understanding screws and their uses lets you work faster and more efficiently. At All Points Fasteners, we distribute a variety of self-tapping screws and our knowledgeable team is always happy to provide information on how to use our products. Whether you’re working on HVAC jobs, installing gutters or roofing a house, we’ve got the fasteners you need to get the job done.

What Is a Deck Screw?

Deck screws are a type of wood screw with a specific coating on them for working with treated wood. Other fasteners can react to the natural resins in lumber, causing stains over time. Using deck screws helps prevent this reaction thanks to the chemical makeup of their outer layer. These fasteners are ideal for protecting the integrity and appearance of your wood decking.

Projects where wood screws are useful include:

• Putting together decks
• Building cabinets or furniture
• Making assemblies with plywood

True wood screws typically have an unthreaded area of the shank below the head, which allows for a tighter grip since the screw can spin freely in the outer layer of material and impart more tension at the bottom.  Wood screws are self-tapping as well, tapping their own thread into the wood, making them perfect for any woodworking job. 

A type 17 point, also known as an auger point, is a feature on many wood screws which eliminates the need to drill a small pilot hole before inserting your fastener.  This allows the threads to begin cutting without having to displace material to accommodate the shank’s diameter. Power drills, rather than impact drills, are best  to install these fasteners. 

All Points Fasteners has a variety of self-tapping wood screws to choose from. Our reliable customer service representatives know how to assist you in finding what you need. 

Self-Drilling Screws for Wood 

Many people use the terms self-tapping and self-drilling interchangeably, but these labels have different meanings. Self-drilling screws are fasteners with drill bit tips, manufactured mainly for metal to metal applications.  Their threads ALSO make them self-tapping screws since their threads tap their own mating threads into the material.  There are only two type of self drilling screws that are designed to be used with wood.

• reduced points – very small drill bit tips that drill smaller diameter holes than the outside diameter of the screw.  This allows the larger outside thread to tap in to the wood.  Normal drill bit tips will drill a hole basically the same width as the diameter of the outside thread of the screw, which will allow the screw to pull out of the material since the thread can’t tap.
• reamer tek screws – wood to metal screws.  These screws have small ‘wings’ above the tip of the self-drilling screw which will ‘ream’ out the wood so that the threads of the screw won’t get bound up by the wood before the screw hits the metal.  Once the screw starts drilling through the metal, the ‘wings’ will break off.

Buy Self-Tapping Wood Screws in the Quantity You Need

Whether you’re looking for self-drilling wood screws or another type of self-tapping screw, All Points Fasteners can help you find what you need with our large selection. We will work diligently to build a relationship with you throughout your experience with us. 

You can fill out our contact form today to get a customized quote for the fasteners you need.  

MaryLouise Eckman

Head Screw Lady Since 1986! Specializing in breaking down the language barrier between suppliers and end users. During her 35 years working in the fastener industry, MaryLouise has worked directly with end users, contractor’s, OEM’S and DIY, as well working within the import industry, working with fastener manufacturers and distributors. This has given her the unique perspective of having the technical knowledge needed to perform in the fastener world but also be familiar with the needs of end users who don’t necessarily know the fastener jargon or applications to know exactly what they need for their jobs.