Collection: Construction, Decks & More
The Right Drill Bit Size for Wood Screws to Prevent...
The size of the hole for wood screws for pilot holes should be smaller than the minor diameter (the size without the threads) of the screw for softwoods. For hardwoods, use a larger bit for pilot holes.
The size of the hole for wood screws for clearance holes should be the same size or slightly larger than the major diameter (the size with the threads) of the screw.
You can know what drill bit to use by “eyeballing” it or using a caliper. For beginners (and people with bad eyesight), the easiest way is to buy a wood screw gauge on Amazon. Just slide your bit or your screw into the slot for the type of wood you’re using, and you’re done.
Always use pilot holes for stainless steel wood screws. Always drill clearance holes when joining two pieces of hardwood.
Prevent Rust on Screws in Humid Areas for Long-Lasting Outdoor...
We are timber construction specialists. With decades of building and fixing in real weather, we learned how to keep screws from rusting in humid areas so outdoor wood structures last.
Rust needs three things: oxygen, moisture, and a metal surface. In hot, sticky weather, once relative humidity climbs past roughly 60%, a thin film of water can sit on screw heads and in tiny crevices.
If heat and humidity are the drivers, the fix is straightforward: choose corrosion-resistant screws, block the moisture path, and seal the joint.
The best screws for outdoor use are stainless steel from Eagle Claw Fasteners and coated screws from Simpson Strong-Tie. Waterproof exterior screws by sealing the penetration so water can’t sit under the head or wick down the threads. Doing proper maintenance keeps water out and can prevent minor issues, but it cannot turn a poor screw into a good one.
Tips for Constructing a Long-Lasting Deck Using Stainless Steel Fasteners
As professional deck builders, our top advice when people ask us how to build a strong deck is to use stainless steel fasteners. Still, a lot of folks hesitate because of myths they’ve heard.
The truth is that most horror stories come from using the wrong grade, mixing metals, skipping pilot holes in dense boards, or over-driving with a worn bit, and not from stainless itself.
When constructing a long-lasting deck, first figure out if your location is better off using 304 or 316 stainless steel, use the proper driving technique, always predrill into the wood, only use stainless steel hangers with stainless steel screws, and do not use deck cleaners that can be abrasive to stainless steel.
The Best Way to Reinforce a Wooden Structure with Structural...
We’ve seen great-looking decks and garden beds start to wobble, feel unsafe, or even fail due to weak joints or low-quality fasteners. That’s why we created this guide to show what it really takes to keep your structures safe, strong, and reliable.
Reinforcing a wooden structure comes down to two key principles: using the right structural screws and applying proper bracing. Structural fasteners like the Simpson Strong-Tie SDWS and SDWH are tested and ICC-certified to replace lag screws in critical connections. They offer superior load strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability. Along with that, bracing techniques like diagonal bracing, V bracing, or mid-span blocking lock joints in place and prevent sway, racking, and movement from wind, shifting soil, or daily use.
Whether you're working on a deck, pergola, dock, fence, or garden bed, we show you how to reinforce each one the right way. From choosing the best structural screws for your environment to cutting and installing braces for real support, this guide brings together everything we’ve learned from decades in the field.
Coated Wood Screws: Benefits and Ideal Timber Applications
Coated wood screws come in so many colors, finishes, and coatings, which can make it difficult to choose the right one for your project. The color doesn’t always mean much in terms of rust resistance or durability, especially for a coastal deck. Choosing the wrong fastener can cause your hard work to go to waste, as the screws will start rusting after just a couple of months.
The most common coatings include zinc, ceramic, and epoxy, with each providing different levels of protection against the elements. For instance, ceramic-coated screws are the most durable for outdoor use, while epoxy-coated screws are great for treated lumber and areas with high moisture.
When using screws for timber construction, especially outdoors, it's important to select the right coating for the job. Zinc-coated screws are ideal for indoor projects, but hot-dipped galvanized screws work better outdoors in applications like decks and fences. For treated lumber, stainless steel or ceramic-coated screws are highly recommended due to their superior corrosion resistance. Choosing the right screws will save you from costly replacements and ensure your structure stays strong and intact for years.
Comparing the Best Deck Screw Brands: Eagle Claw & Simpson...
Not all deck screws are the same. Choosing the right screws for outdoor use depends on the wood type, how easily you want to drive them into the wood, and the brands that most experienced deck builders trust. Eagle Claw Fasteners and Simpson Strong-Tie are among the most trusted brands, each known for making some of the best deck screws on the market.
Eagle Claw Fasteners are ideal for projects where rust-proof reliability is key. Their 304 stainless screws are best for standard residential decks in non-extreme climates, while their 316 stainless screws are better suited for decks near pools, in coastal areas, or exposed to high humidity. Simpson Strong-Tie offers a wider variety of screws designed for different types of wood, deck size, and budget, with specialized fasteners for all deck-building needs.
In terms of pricing, Eagle Claw Fasteners provide better value for stainless steel deck screws due to the combination of performance and cost-efficiency. Simpson Strong-Tie offers a wider range of deck screw options, making it easier for builders to select the right product for different project requirements. Both brands offer decking screws that are easy to drive, with Simpson’s Quik Drive® system being ideal for larger decks.
