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What are the different types of screw?
The most common types of screw include:
Lumber screws have pointed ends and are designed to drill into wood to secure it.
Deck screws are a type of long lumber screw used to fasten large pieces of wood.
Machine screws have flat ends and precise threading and are designed to fasten threaded metal parts in machinery.
Self drilling or self-drive screws are tipped with a sharp bit that lets you drill into hard surfaces without creating a pilot hole.
Drywall screws are designed and sized to pierce through drywall and drill in quickly and firmly to secure drywall to studs drilling in too deeply.
How do I know which size screws to buy?
For most lumber screws, you'll want a length that fastens two materials together without penetrating through. For machine screws, you might need to measure or refer to manuals to ensure you have the right size.
What else might I need for a project involving screws?
You'll need a screwdriver or power drill with the correct bits that match the screws you'll be using. Some self drilling screws have hexagonal heads and work best with an impact driver.