Types of Nail and Screw Fixings and Their Uses

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just trying your hand at DIY, it is always important to use the correct materials and tools for the job. There are many different types of fixings, and they can be used in different ways. Here are just a few basic pieces of information on nail and screw fixings to get you started with your first project.

Nails

With so many types of nail and screw fixings, it can be confused when knowing which ones to use. Within the category of nails, there are many different variations, made of various materials that are appropriate for different uses. Stainless steel nails are a common choice, as they are durable, suitable for outdoor use as they don’t corrode, and can be used on cedar and larch cladding. UPVC nails are also ideal for outdoor use, as they are made of stainless steel and have a large plastic head. The plastic head can also come in different colors to allow it to blend it, and it won’t fade as it is UV resistant.

Screws

One of the primary differences between nails and screws is the way in which they are driven into the material you are working with. Nails are smoother and driven using force, whereas screws have threads that allow them to be turned and screwed using a screwdriver. There are many different types of screws that are suitable for different purposes and materials. Wood screws come in a range of sizes and types, and some are even designed to remove the need for predrilling, which can save you a lot of time and effort. Predrilling is the process of drilling a hole in the material before inserting the screw to help prevent the material from splitting.

Bolts

Nuts, bolts, and washers are all components that are combined to create very versatile fasteners for different structures. For larger projects, coach bolts are commonly used as they are more durable than other bolt types available. They come in different materials, which means there are options for interior and exterior use and are commonly used for joining wood to wood or wood to metal. Nuts are typically used when the bolt has been pushed through a hole and are screwed onto the bolt, securing it in place. Washers are much thinner than nuts and are not always required, but they are put onto the thread before the nut for different reasons, include corrosion protection, spacing, or as a locking device.

Collated Nails

Collated nails are held together on a strip or coil and are designed to be used in nail guns. This makes the tool loading time much faster, allowing you to work at a much quicker pace. They are held to the strip using a variety of materials such as glue, paper, wire, or plastic. Not all types work in every nail gun, so it is important to make sure your tools are compatible. You can also get collated screws and staples.