Construction, Decks & More
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.
Best Screws for Raised Garden Bed in 2025
If you're looking to build a raised garden bed that’s cheap and easy to build, but also durable and safe for your soil and vegetables or flowers, then choosing the right raised bed screws is essential.
The best screws for raised garden beds in 2025 are stainless steel deck screws. Eagle Claw Stainless Steel Deck Screws are affordable and have the same quality as more expensive alternatives, made from 304 and 316 stainless steel, which won't rust, tarnish, or harm your soil and vegetables.
Deck-Drive™ DSV Deck Screws (Coated) are perfect for preservative-treated wood, with their Quik Guard® coating offering rust protection, and Type-17 points making installation smooth. Strong-Drive® DWP Stainless Steel Wood Screws are another option, providing a sharp point and Torx heads that make them easy to install without stripping.
In 2025, stainless steel deck screws are the best choice because they won’t leach harmful chemicals into the soil, and their corrosion resistance ensures your garden bed lasts for years.
DIY Nail, Screw, Drill Bit, and Power Drill Storage Organizer
If you’ve ever spent too much time digging through cluttered boxes to find the right screw, drill bit, or power drill, this guide is for you. It provides multiple DIY solutions to help you organize your hardware, whether you're repurposing jars, Altoid tins, or creating custom wooden organizers. These methods will ensure your tools and fasteners are easy to find and store efficiently.
From organizing small screws and nails in containers like Altoid tins or plastic gum containers, to using sturdy bins like Akro Mils and Stanley organizers, this guide covers it all. We’ve also included ideas for organizing drill bits with wooden blocks, pegboards, and even tackle boxes, making it simple to store bits of all sizes for quick access when you need them.
Lastly, we cover the best ways to store your power drills, including how to maintain them and keep them protected. By following these practical solutions, you’ll not only get your workspace organized, but you’ll also ensure that your tools and fasteners stay in top condition, ready for any project that comes your way.
Maintenance of Screwdrivers and Power Drills: Tips to Make Them...
Maintaining your screwdrivers and power drills is essential for ensuring they last longer and perform effectively. If you find yourself replacing tools every few months due to wear and tear, it's time to rethink your maintenance routine. Regular care and maintenance of screwdrivers, whether it’s cleaning, sharpening, or protecting the metal, can prevent delays and extend their lifespan.
For screwdrivers, using products like Tub O Wipes, Maguire’s Plastex, and Ballistol helps keep handles clean and metal parts rust-free. After each use, clean off sawdust and dirt, polish out scratches, and protect the metal from corrosion.
When it comes to power drills, regular maintenance involves blowing out the motor with compressed air to remove debris, cleaning plastic components with mild detergent, and using compressed air for the battery compartment. Always avoid harsh chemicals or water, which can damage internal components.
Taking the time to properly care for your tools ensures better performance, fewer delays, and longer-lasting tools. By maintaining your screwdrivers and power drills, you are also protecting your investment in quality fasteners from ATC Construction Fasteners, making sure that everything stays securely fastened
