DIY Builds
Photo by Karolina Grabowska Pexels Logo Photo: Karolina Grabowska

Why do carpenters prefer screws to nails?

Increased Strength Screws are, in fact, able to create a more secure hold when joining objects than nails because they have a threaded shaft. With that said, nails offer greater tensile strength. Screws are more brittle than nails.

Why do I hear tapping in my walls at night?
Why do I hear tapping in my walls at night?

Rats and mice are the most likely culprits for noises in your walls at night. Since rodents don't weigh much, you typically don't hear them until...

Read More »
How much should a woodworker charge per hour?
How much should a woodworker charge per hour?

As a point of reference, the shop rate for woodworking in the U.S. and Canada is between $35 and $85 per hour according to FDMC's Pricing Survey. I...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Nails and screws are the two most common types of fasteners. As you may know, the main difference between them is that the nails have a smooth shaft, whereas screws have a threaded shaft. The presence of exterior threading allows screws to create a stronger and more secure hold when joining two or more objects. Even with their increased security, though, nails are the preferred fastener in the construction industry. So, why do construction and carpentry workers typically use nails instead of screws?

Less Expensive

For starters, nails are less expensive than screws. While the number varies, it’s not uncommon for two-story residential homes to contain over 10,000 nails. Screws cost significantly more than mails, however. As a result, construction companies can save money by using nails. This is just one of several reasons why nails are the preferred fastener in the construction industry.

Increased Strength

Screws are, in fact, able to create a more secure hold when joining objects than nails because they have a threaded shaft. With that said, nails offer greater tensile strength. Screws are more brittle than nails. The exterior threading results in areas of thin metal that can easily break when exposed to stress or pressure. Nails don’t have a threaded shaft, so they aren’t as brittle as screws. And in turn, they offer greater tensile strength, making them desirable for construction and carpentry applications.

Easier to Install

Another reason nails are the preferred fastener in the construction industry is because they are easier to install. There are power tools available that can quickly and efficiently install both nails and screws. Nails, however, typically require less time to install. With the exception of self-tapping screws, most screws require the use of a pilot hole. Before a construction or carpentry worker installs a screw, he or she must first drill a pilot hole. Nails don’t require a pilot hole and, instead, can be driven directly into the respective objects. Furthermore, construction and carpentry workers can install nails with or without a power tool. All it takes to drive a nail into two or more objects is a hammer. To install a screw, on the other hand, a drill must be used.

Easier to Remove

Not only are they easier to install than screws, but nails are also easier to remove. If a building component needs replacing, a worker can easily remove a nail using a hammer or similar tool. To remove a screw, construction and carpentry workers must use a screwdriver, which generally requires more time and energy.

No tags for this post.

What is wrong with Barndominiums?
What is wrong with Barndominiums?

Barndominiums are typically more durable and affordable compared to standard homes. However, as with any home, barndominiums can still suffer from...

Read More »
Is 50 amps enough for a garage?
Is 50 amps enough for a garage?

As for basic lighting or low-load electronic devices, a 50- or 60-amp subpanel in a detached garage may suffice. You'll likely have to increase the...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

What is the most Command strips can hold?

Hang heavy items up to 10lbs with damage-free with Command Utility Hook. Command Hooks let you hang what you want, where you want, without the hassle of tools and nails.

Life is easier when everything has its place. Hang heavy items up to 10lbs with damage-free with Command Utility Hook. Command Hooks let you hang what you want, where you want, without the hassle of tools and nails. Command Strips hold strongly on a variety of smooth, finished surfaces, and these adhesive hooks remove cleanly with no sticky residue or damage left behind. Now you can organize your home or office just the way you want with Command Heavyweight Hooks. INCLUDES - Extra Large, White Command Utility Hook and Large Command Strips; 1 hook holds up to 10 lbs DAMAGE-FREE ORGANIZATION- Say goodbye to holes, marks, or sticky residue on your walls, doors, cabinets, or closets; Command Hooks by 3M are strong, easy to use and help keep your walls looking beautiful NO TOOLS REQUIRED- Hang heavy duty backpacks, ironing boards, stepladders, clipboards, brushes, dog leashes, kitchen utensils, and accessories where you want without nails or a hammer HANG HEAVIER*- Command 10lb Heavyweight Hook holds strongly on a variety of indoor surfaces including painted walls, painted cinderblock and concrete surfaces. *Compared to Command 7.5lb Jumbo Hook. REMOVES CLEANLY- Reorganize when inspiration strikes; These wall hooks leave no sticky adhesive behind; Perfect to use inside cabinets and closets, in your college dorm, apartment, home, and office

Holds 25% more weight (vs. Command 7.5lb Jumbo Hook)

Where is the happiest place to retire?
Where is the happiest place to retire?

the United Arab Emirates The study reveals that the United Arab Emirates is the happiest place to retire with an overall score of 7.76. ... Top 10...

Read More »
What do mice dislike the most?
What do mice dislike the most?

Peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, pepper and cloves. Mice are said to hate the smell of these. Lightly soak some cotton balls in oils from one or...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
How do I make my shed warmer?
How do I make my shed warmer?

How to Heat a Shed Without Electricity: 10 Practical Ideas and... Make Sure It's Well Insulated. Let Some Sunlight In. Build A Solar Window Heater....

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
How to make a storage shed climate controlled?
How to make a storage shed climate controlled?

Here are some HVAC options for your shed. The cheapest air conditioning solution is a window unit. They are inexpensive and will do the job in such...

Read More »