The primary difference between decking screws and normal screws lies in their design, material, and use. Decking screws are specifically engineered for outdoor use, offering superior corrosion resistance, holding power, and aesthetic appeal compared to normal screws. In this blog, we will explore these differences in detail, providing a guide to help you select the right screw for your needs.
Design and Material
Decking Screws
Decking screws are crafted from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or galvanised steel. They feature a sharp point and a threaded shank that allows for easy penetration and a strong grip on decking boards. The design includes a self-countersinking head, which ensures a flush finish with the deck's surface, preventing any protrusions that could cause tripping.
Normal Screws
Normal screws, while versatile, are generally made from less robust materials such as plain steel. They lack the specialised coatings that prevent corrosion. Their design varies widely depending on their intended application, but they often require pre-drilling and may not offer the same ease of use or strength as decking screws.
Corrosion Resistance
Decking Screws
Decking screws are specifically treated to withstand the elements. Their corrosion-resistant coating, whether galvanised or stainless steel, ensures they do not rust or deteriorate when exposed to rain, snow, and varying temperatures. This makes them ideal for outdoor applications where longevity and durability are crucial.
Normal Screws
Normal screws are not typically designed for outdoor use and therefore do not have the same level of corrosion resistance. While some may have basic rust-resistant coatings, they are generally not suitable for environments where they will be exposed to moisture and harsh weather conditions. Using normal screws outdoors can lead to rusting and weakening of the structure over time.
Holding Power
Decking Screws
The holding power of decking screws is one of their key advantages. The deep threading and sharp point ensure a tight, secure hold on decking boards, reducing the risk of boards loosening or shifting over time. This is particularly important for maintaining the integrity and safety of a deck.
Normal Screws
Normal screws, while sufficient for many indoor applications, do not offer the same holding power as decking screws. In high-stress environments like decking, normal screws can loosen and fail, leading to potential safety hazards and a shorter lifespan for the structure.
Installation
Decking Screws
Decking screws are designed for easy installation. Their sharp tips and self-drilling capabilities allow them to penetrate hardwoods without the need for pre-drilling. This saves time and effort during construction, making the process smoother and more efficient.
Normal Screws
Normal screws often require pre-drilling, especially when used with harder materials. This adds extra steps to the installation process, making it more time-consuming and laborious. They may also be more prone to splitting the wood if not used correctly.
Decking Screws from BS Fixings
Timber Frame Construction & Landscaping Screw Hex Head (Box of 50)
Designed as a modern alternative to traditional coach screws for timber-to-timber connections, these screws feature a patented multi-layer corrosion-resistant coating that endures 1,000 hours of salt spray testing, making them perfect for external applications. These screws are perfect for heavy-duty applications in timber frame construction and landscaping, providing exceptional performance and durability for outdoor use.
Deck-Tite Outdoor Decking Screw - Green Net-Coat® Protection (Box of 200)
Deck-Tite® screws feature a unique thread pitch to core size ratio, offering the perfect balance between ease of insertion and pull-out retention, while increasing core shear strength. The Tri-Lock thread forms, rather than cuts, a thread in the material, expanding the wood which then relaxes back around the screw, ensuring a tight and locked fix. Once driven in, the screw remains secure for good.
Investing in quality timber deserves the best fasteners. Inferior screws can compromise your hard work, but Deck-Tite® screws provide reliability and durability. Key features include the Net-Coat® corrosion resistance, a specially developed coating that combats the effects of galvanic corrosion. These screws are ideal for pressure-treated timbers such as decking, fencing, and other outdoor builds.
Performance Decking Screws (Tubs)
Our High Performance Decking Screws are available in boxes of 300 or 500, making them ideal for both small and large decking projects. These screws feature a Pozi Square Head, allowing for versatile application with multiple driver bits. The self-countersinking ribs ensure a flush finish and excellent countersinking, while the serrated thread cuts into wood, reducing torque and avoiding splitting. The locking thread ensures a tight lock between the screw and the decking board. Additionally, the ACQ corrosion-resistant coating offers a minimum of 1000 hours on a salt spray test, providing exceptional durability. The Type 17 cut point reduces the need for pre-drilling and minimises the risk of splitting the wood.
Understanding the differences between decking screws and normal screws is essential for selecting the right fasteners for your project. Decking screws, with their superior corrosion resistance, holding power, and aesthetic appeal, are the optimal choice for outdoor applications. Normal screws, while versatile and suitable for many indoor tasks, lack the specialised features needed for decking.
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