Choosing the right one is essential in every application. Each size has its uses. Generally, choose a thickness that can enter at least half of the material.
Incorrect material and grade
Each type has a distinct property appropriate for a specific application. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, while grade 316 stainless steel has higher resistance from corrosion. It makes it excellent for saltwater applications.
Reactive materials
Putting two or more reactive metals together will weaken their integrity. Putting stainless steel and aluminum together in salt water will make an unstable balance, weakening the material and leaving it susceptible to rust.
Mixing metric and imperial sizes
Always check the sizes before installing or purchasing your materials. Do not mix metric readings with imperial readings or vice versa because these will create inaccuracy and confusion with your measurements.
Wrong driver size
Using the correct driver size reduces deformation chances and over-screwing. A loose driver increases the chances of stripping and camming out.
The following are the common ones available in the market.
#6
Gauge #6 is not the smallest diameter in the market but is common among small objects. It has a thread size of 0.13 inches and a length ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches. The typical applications are toys, drawer slides, light fixtures, and hinges.
Recommendation – SG TZH #6 Self-Tapping Wood Screw
Pros
- Strong and durable, will last a long time.
- We like the precision threads.
Cons
- The screws arrived in a small plastic bag squeezed into a box.
[amazon box=”B09C5GLFTB” title=”SG TZH #6 Self-Tapping Wood Screw” description = “You have plenty of options to choose from.”]
#8
Gauge #8 is the most common size in the market. It has a wide application, making it common in several wooden objects. Items such as cabinets, furniture, and other light constructions use the #8. These have lengths ranging from 0.625 to three inches.
Recommendation – Bolt Dropper #8 Stainless Steel
Pros
- The package arrived quickly.
- Highly resistant to rust.
Cons
- The screws left stains on our hands.
[amazon box=”B079SMYBMC” title=”Bolt Dropper #8 Stainless Steel” description = “Coated with Black Oxide.”]
#10
Gauge #10 are for larger and heavier objects, which you will find in many construction jobs. Moreover, you will also find it on the patio and outdoor furniture. These have a thread diameter of 0.19 inches.
Recommendation – Deck Plus #10
Pros
- Affordable price.
- Easy to install with the star-drive feature.
Cons
- Some screws had their heads deformed.
[amazon box=”B0100IDA9O” title=”Deck Plus #10″ description = “The best screws with a 4-layer epoxy coating.”]
#12
Gauge #12 works great on woodworking projects, specifically when connecting two or more points. The one we recommend below is 100% stainless steel, which is resistant to rust.
Recommendation – LIONMAX #12 Woodworking Kit
Pros
- Wide application.
- You can save drilling time with the self tapping point.
Cons
- There is no customer support available.
[amazon box=”B09V5DFCGT” title=”LIONMAX #12 Woodworking Kit” description = “You will save lots of time with these self-tapping screws.”]
#14
Gauge #14 is excellent for outdoor and indoor use. The stainless steel material prevents corrosion from building up around the shaft.
Recommendation – Bolt Dropper #14 Stainless Steel
Pros
- Corrosion resistant feature makes them ideal for external applications.
- Pure stainless steel without coatings.
Cons
- You need specific screwdrivers for these screws.
[amazon box=”B07D1KXF7Q” title=”Bolt Dropper #14 Stainless Steel” description = “Screws that you can depend on.”]
6/32
It has a black phosphate coating, enabling higher resistance to corrosion and rust. Ideally, we recommend using it in renovations and fixing wooden flooring. It also works with plastic and soft metals.
Recommendation – MR SCREWS #6-32 Stainless Steel Self-Tapping
Pros
- We used these screws for many applications.
- The black phosphate coating is an unique feature.
Cons
- We didn’t receive 330 screws in our package.
[amazon box=”B099RRQ5MV” title=”MR SCREWS #6-32 Stainless Steel Self-Tapping” description = “High-quality screws coated with black phosphate.”]
8/32 screw diameter
These have sharp tips but are not corrosion-resistant. We recommend using it indoors and away from moisture and direct contact with water.
Recommendation – Snug Fasteners #8-32 Black Phillips Truss Head
Pros
- Superior quality.
- They have a sharp point.
Cons
- Not ideal for outdoor use.
[amazon box=”B089PTHNFX” title=”Snug Fasteners #8-32 Black Phillips Truss Head” description = “Besides being practical, these screws also look cool.”]
4/40
The 4-40 size is ideal for different applications. It includes chipboards, fiberboards, hardwoods, and softwoods.
Most manufacturers make these using a single thread, allowing for easier and quicker insertion. It is also not limited to wooden applications because it works with metal or plastic. Those using zinc coating or a stainless steel material are unlikely to rust.
10/32
The 10-32 has 32 threads per inch (TPI). It roughly translates to a diameter of 0.1875 inches. We recommend using the 10-32 in indoor and outdoor woodworking of:
- shelves
- tables
- benches
- door hinges
- and fence panels.
You can use it outdoors if you have a corrosion-resistant screw. Otherwise, we recommend staying away from moisture and water.
2/56
The 2-56 has around 56 threads per inch (TPI). This type is not very common in woodworking. However, you will rarely find it in small objects or items.
10/24
The 10-24 diameter is for general woodworking purposes. Some manufacturers produce corrosion-resistant items that you can use in wet and dry applications. Please check with the manufacturer before taking further action.
A flat-head type will work great in furniture because of its flushed design. We also recommend using it in fences and decks.
Recommendation – Hillman #10-24 Galvanized Wood Screw
Pros
- Excellent corrosion protection.
- We love the galvanized exterior of these screws.
Cons
- Some of the screws were bent during delivery.
[amazon box=”B00MEWLXFS” title=”Hillman #10-24 Galvanized Wood Screw” description = “With 750 pieces included in the package, you will never run out of screws again.”]
M3
The M3 size is excellent for woodworking jobs and do-it-yourself projects. These are typically corrosion-resistant, durable, and secure. The deep threads you will find here prevent stripping and provides a good hold.
Recommendation – Erioctry M3 Stainless Steel Wood Screw
Pros
- Great for DIY projects.
- Made with high-quality stainless steel.
Cons
- Package took a long time to arrive.
[amazon box=”B06ZY34BXJ” title=”Erioctry M3 Stainless Steel Wood Screw” description = “Deep threads on these screws will help you get the job done faster.”]
M4
The M4 size is common among assembling wood pieces, such as:
- chairs
- tables
- and furniture.
We recommend drilling a small hole before tapping.
