Many common botched DIY projects from wobbly shelves to falling mounted TVs aren’t the result of measuring or cutting errors, but instead the result of using the wrong screws. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference – certain types of screws are designed for certain materials and applications, so it’s important to know your screws. This post explains the difference between five common types of screws and when to use them.

Wood screws

Wood screws should be your go to for furniture assembly, timber framing or general carpentry. They have a sharp point and tapered body designed to penetrate timber without causing it to splinter. Use softer, thinner screws for light jobs like trim, and use thicker, stronger ones for structural connections. In many cases, it’s advisable to drill a pilot hole first to stop the wood splitting. This video explains how to drill a pilot hole. 

Drywall screws

If you’re fixing plasterboard to studs, you’ll need drywall screws. These are thin, hard and quite sharp with a distinctive bugle head that allows the screw to sit flush without tearing the paper surface. Beyond drywall, it’s possible to use these screws for lightweight woodworking tasks like fixing loose floorboards, however they’re typically not strong enough for more heavy-duty structural applications.

Decking screws

Most screws will corrode if used outdoors, however decking screws can resist rust as they’re typically made from stainless steel or have a protective coating. The most common usage for them is clamping down deck boards, but they’re also a good choice if you’re assembling outdoor furniture, building a wooden shed or constructing raised beds. Decking screws come in different lengths, depending on the thickness of the wood you’re working with. For composite decking, use specialised composite decking screws that prevent mushrooming. 

Masonry screws

Fixing shelves or brackets to a brick or concrete wall? For this task, you’ll need masonry screws. These are made from hardened steel and have special threads that help them grip the material firmly. Be prepared to drill a pilot hole first using a masonry drill bit. Clean all dust from the hole before inserting the screw, and make sure to drive in the screw at a low to medium speed to avoid it snapping. Use longer and thicker screws when hanging heavier things (like large TVs or kitchen cabinets) and smaller and shorter screws for light tasks (like hanging pictures). 

Self-drilling screws

Also known as ‘tek screws’, these screws are the best solution for metal: roofing sheets, metal studs and steel sheds. As the name ‘self-drilling’ implies, they act like a tiny drill bit due to their very sharp tip, and so you don’t usually need to make a pilot hole first. While you can buy self-drilling screws with slotted or Phillips heads, they also come with different heads like hex and pan which can help minimise slippage when inserting or unscrewing them. 

Think before you screw

Don’t just use whatever screws you have available – take your time to match your screws to the application, and the results will be more sturdy and clean. You can buy all these different types of screws online or find them at your local DIY store.

This is a collaborative post.