20/09/2024 12:00 AM
What Screw is Best for Decking
When installing new decking, the type of screw you use is integral to the overall integrity.
We recommend a 60mm stainless steel decking screw for decking installations. Screws are 5.5mm x 60mm which is ideal for decking as it has a smaller rounded head, which is designed to sit slightly lower than the surface of the decking boards, reducing any chance of it protruding and creating a trip hazard. The part thread eliminates deck to joist parting during insertion. Screws are self-countersinking, which makes it easier to drive into the decking.
Using a stainless-steel screw will ensure longevity against rust and corrosion ensuring the decking is held firm throughout its life. Using stainless steel screws in decking is particularly important because it is a horizontal surface - often there will be water sitting on top of the deck and pooling in the holes created from the countersunk screws. When lower quality screws are used, screws will rust causing rust marks across the deck but rusting also affects the strength and integrity of the fixing.
Available in quantities of 200 (code: 809902) and 500 (code: 809905)
Top Tip : Decking screws should not be used for other purposes
The combination of a thicker shank and point rather than self-drilling tip will increase the chances of splitting certain types of timber. In addition, the smaller head is much more likely to be buried or be pulled through, increasing the chance of splits or imperfections and may also be hard to access and undo in future (often required if a panel needs to be removed from posts).
What screw is best for Fencing
We recommend 60mm stainless steel screws for securing garden fence panels. The screw features a drill point at the end, removing the need for a pilot hole as the screw can cut its own thread, which reduces the chance of splitting timber. It also has a large head that helps pull two pieces of timber together and reduces the chance of it burying itself.
Available in quantities of 200 (code: 809900), 100 (code: 809911) and 20 (code:809912).
Why use stainless steel screws?
We only use stainless steel screws when manufacturing our fence panels. This is because we produce products that will be used outside and therefore need protection against the elements.
Here's why stainless steel screws are great for decking and fencing
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel screws resist rust and corrosion, even in harsh environments such as near saltwater or in consistently damp conditions.
Durability: They can withstand a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions without degrading, making them ideal for outdoor projects.
Strength: Stainless steel is strong and less likely to bend or break under pressure compared to some other materials.
While there are other options for outdoor use, such as hot-dipped galvanised and ceramic-coated screws, we believe that stainless steel screws are the best choice for the installations we provide to our customers.
Other size stainless steel screws
We also supply stainless-steel screws in different sizes. These can be found on our fencing screws page and are available in lengths of 40mm, 45mm, 50mm, 75mm and 90mm.
It's important to note that screws designed for other purposes, like bright zinc-plated screws meant for indoor use, should not be used for installing fencing. Over time, these screws will begin to rust, causing unsightly stains and potentially damaging nearby materials as the rust spreads.
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