Here’s How to Choose the Best Screw for Your Project

When it comes to home improvement projects and DIYing, screws literally hold it all together. These essential fasteners come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, each with their own dedicated purpose. Here is a comparison of these essential building materials, so you can zero-in on the best ones for your next home repair or project.

Common Household Screws Buying Considerations Common Screw Drives

Common Household Screws

All screws have four basic parts: the head, the drive (a.k.a. “screwdriver slot”), the threaded shank and the point. There are different types of each, so it’s important to know what will work best for a particular job. The material and coating also play a role. Here’s a quick rundown to help you choose.

Buying Considerations

A screw’s shape, size and material all impact its utility and durability. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right screw for your next home improvement project.

Screw Heads

There are two basic types of screw heads. Generally, a countersinking screw is ideal for drywall or decking because its head sits flush with or just below the material being fastened. Non-countersinking screws sit slightly above a surface and are commonly used for metal. Variants include truss heads, washer heads and wafer heads, which provide a larger contact area under the screw head.

Screw Threads

There are also two basic types of screw threads. Coarse-threaded screws have more space between threads and are usually used with softer materials, like wood or drywall. Installation and removal are quick and easy. Fine-threaded screws have less space between threads and are usually used with nuts or pre-tapped holes in metal

Screw Materials & Finishes

The most common material for screws is steel. Bright (unfinished) steel screws are ideal for interior use, as are decorative finishes, like chrome, brass or nickel plating. Other materials include stainless steel, bronze and aluminum. The best outdoor screws are steel with a zinc- or hot-dipped galvanized coating to protect against corrosion.

Screw Anatomy

Each screw consists of four basic parts: the head, the drive (aka “screwdriver slot”),the threaded shank and the point. Here’s why each factor matters

	Screw Drive	The drive is the recessed area on the top of the screw head that is shaped to accept a screwdriver, known as the “screwdriver slot.”
	Screw Heads	The head is the uppermost surface of the screw. A counter sinking screw head sits flush or below the material being fastened for a clean surface which can be covered if desired, while a non-countersinking screw has a head that sits slightly above the materials being fastened
	Screw Shanks	The longest part of the screw, the shank connects the materials being fastened. The threaded portion bites into the materials, to ensure a snug, secure fit
	Screw Points	The point of a screw mat be sharper or duller depending on its intended use. The sharp points of self-piercing screw are designed to penetrate surfaces, while the blunt point of a tek screw is compatible with pre-drilled holes

Common Screw Drives

Screws are often categorized by their drive, which is the recessed area on the head that is shaped to match a screwdriver. Each drive type has its own unique application. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common drive styles.

Philips Screws

The cross-shaped pattern of this drive shape evenly distributes torque to ensure the screw is driven in straight. It’s ideal for high-speed, low-torque applications, like drywalling.

Flat Head Screws

Also known as a slot head screw, the single flat slot on this drive makes it fine for simple tasks, but does allow for easy camout (slippage from the slot), potentially damaging the screw or surface.

Hex Screws

Also known as an Allen screw, the hex screw features a hexagonal ridge on the screw head and is installed using a hex wrench or Allen key.

Robertson Screws

This screw drive features a square, tapered hole that resists slippage, allowing for higher torque to be applied. It is the most resistant to cam-out.

Torx Screws

Also called a star screw, this drive type features a six-pointed recess to resist cam-out and allow for greater torque.

Double Hex Screws

This drive type features two pairs of hexagonal ridges for even greater torque.

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