
Washer head screws are a type of fastener with a large diameter head and a built-in washer that extends beyond the circumference of the basic head diameter. They are commonly used in furniture and cabinet making, providing a maximum bearing surface and preventing overdriving in softwoods. Washer head screws are available in various lengths and materials, including steel, zinc, and bronze. They can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, such as roofing and drawer assembly.
What You'll Learn
Round washer head design
Round washer head screws have a raised pan head with a built-in washer that extends beyond the circumference of the basic head diameter. This design increases the head diameter and creates a larger bearing area, making it perfect for fastening soft materials. The flat bearing surface under the head prevents the screw from being countersunk.
Round washer head screws are considered one of the most versatile head designs available. They are commonly used in the furniture industry for attaching wood drawer guides and tops to side panels. In cabinetry, they are popular for mounting wall and base cabinets. The X-Tra Large or Super Round Washer Head is often used for attaching drawer fronts to the drawer box, as the extra-large head allows for an oversized hole to be drilled in the drawer box.
Round washer head screws are also useful for fastening almost any type of mounting bracket. They are perfect for mounting pictures, cabinets, and fixtures on walls, as well as for jig building and table-top attachment. The deep thread design holds well in both hard and softwoods, and the Extra Torque (XT) configuration makes these hardened steel screws suitable for demanding applications.
Black oxide plating on round washer head screws offers moderate corrosion resistance and a distinctive visual appeal. It is important to note that these screws have a standard thread length, with full thread for 1” and under, and 2/3 thread for over 1”.
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Wafer-head screw
One specific use case for wafer-head screws is in attaching the lid of a crate to the crate body. The wafer-head design eliminates the need for a finish washer on each screw, saving time and money by combining the screw and washer into one piece.
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Screw length
The general rule of thumb is for the screw to enter at least half the thickness of the bottom material. For example, when joining two boards, aim for at least 1 to 1-1/2 inches of the screw thread to be inserted into the receiving board. If the screw will be subjected to lateral or sheer pressure, such as two boards attached flat and sliding against each other, a thicker screw is recommended. On the other hand, if the forces will apply withdrawal pressure, pulling the boards straight apart, ensure that enough screw threads are inserted into the receiving board to prevent separation.
When working with brittle materials, including some hardwoods, be cautious to avoid splitting the material. In such cases, it is advisable to drill a pilot hole before screwing to prevent splitting. Additionally, consider using multiple screws to provide a stronger fixing if you are limited by the length of the screw.
The screw length will also depend on the grain orientation of the receiving board. When screwing into the end grain, longer screws are required compared to when screwing across the grain.
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External hex-washer head
The external hex-washer head screw is a self-piercing fastener with a sharp point that easily penetrates materials such as wood and thin-gauge sheet metal. It is a type of self-tapping screw with a twin-lead thread design, where one thread is rolled into the tip of the sharp point and the second thread rests just above it. When inserted and turned, the two threads work together to efficiently drive the screw through the material.
The external hex-washer head screw is equipped with a built-in washer at the screw head, which distributes weight and load over a wider area. This feature makes it suitable for a range of applications, including metal-to-metal fastening, light steel framing, sheet metal work, heavier gauge metal fastening, and solar panel installation.
The size of the external hex-washer head screw will depend on the specific application and the type of material being fastened. They are typically available in various sizes, such as #6, #8, and #10. The length of the screw will also vary depending on the application, with lengths of 1/2", 1", 1-1/2", and 2" being commonly used.
When choosing external hex-washer head screws, it is important to consider the material and finish of the screw. They are commonly made from sturdy 410 stainless steel, which provides strength and corrosion resistance. The screws can also be painted to match the material being fastened, with various attractive colours available.
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Pocket-hole screws
Selecting the Right Pocket-Hole Screw
When choosing pocket-hole screws, there are several factors to consider to ensure optimal strength and assembly for your project:
Screw Length and Wood Thickness:
- The most critical factor is the thickness of the wood you're working with. Refer to a pocket-hole screw chart to select the appropriate screw length that corresponds to the material thickness.
- Keep in mind that standardised wood dimensions are typically larger than the actual size, so always select screws based on the wood's actual thickness.
Type of Wood:
- The type of wood you're using—softwood, hardwood, or plywood—determines the recommended thread type:
- Coarse-thread screws are ideal for softwoods like cedar, pine, and fir, as well as sheet goods such as plywood and MDF.
- Fine-thread screws, on the other hand, are the preferred choice for dense hardwoods like cherry, maple, and oak.
Project Location:
- Consider whether your project will be used indoors or outdoors:
- Zinc screws are versatile and suitable for a wide range of indoor applications where moisture is not a concern.
- Blue-Kote screws are designed for damp or wet environments and are compatible with treated lumber.
- Stainless screws are reserved for extreme conditions with significant moisture and corrosive elements.
Pocket-Hole Screw Types:
Kreg pocket-hole screws come in several varieties, each optimised for specific applications:
Maxi-Loc Screws:
- Maxi-Loc screws are a versatile option suitable for most applications.
- They are used with standard drill guides in various project applications.
Pan-Head Screws:
- Pan-head screws are specifically designed for dense hardwoods and 1/2" thick stock.
- These screws require the use of micro drill guides in specific project applications.
By considering wood thickness, type of wood, and project location, you can select the appropriate pocket-hole screw type and length to ensure strong, durable joints in your woodworking projects.
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Frequently asked questions
Big washer head screws are used for wood-to-wood fastening where a low-profile head is needed. They are often used in the furniture industry for attaching wood drawer guides and tops to side panels. They are also used in cabinetry for mounting wall and base cabinets.
The round washer head design is considered the most versatile head design available. It combines the advantages of a pan head but has a built-in washer to increase head diameter and prevent overdriving in softwoods while providing a maximum bearing surface.
Some specific examples include the GRK Fasteners #8 x 2-1/2 in. Star Drive Low Profile Washer-Head Wood Cabinet Screw and the Simpson Strong-Tie 0.220 in. x 8 in. T40 6-Lobe, Washer Head, Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screw.
Big washer head screws can be purchased at various hardware stores such as Home Depot, as well as online retailers like McFeelys, Rapid Start USA, and Tacoma Screw Products.
Big washer head screws are typically made from steel or zinc-plated steel. Some screws are also made from type 316 stainless steel or coated with a material like bronze, black phosphate, or zinc.