DIY Builds
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya Pexels Logo Photo: Ksenia Chernaya

Why don't you use screws to build a house?

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.

How wide is a normal door?
How wide is a normal door?

One of the most common front door sizes in American houses is 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall, and almost 2 inches thick. However, not all doors...

Read More »
What is Britain's national animal?
What is Britain's national animal?

The lion The lion is the national animal of England, and the unicorn represents Scotland; both of which are part of the British empire. May 31, 2019

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 »

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.

Is it better to split wood wet or dry?
Is it better to split wood wet or dry?

Dry Wood Is Typically Easier to Split Normally, though, you'll find that dry, seasoned wood is easier to split than wet wood. Regardless of the...

Read More »
Can you put vinegar in a dehumidifier?
Can you put vinegar in a dehumidifier?

Take a spray bottle and mix one part vinegar with one part water. Spray the mixture in the dehumidifier tank. Allow the spray to sit for a while...

Read More »

How can I speed up drying firewood?
How can I speed up drying firewood?

10 Hacks for Drying Firewood Super Fast: Seasoning your Firewood Quickly Make your wood the right length. ... Split the wood. ... Leave lots of air...

Read More »
What do Brits call a highway?
What do Brits call a highway?

motorway freeway British vs American Vocabulary British English ↕ American English ↕ motorway freeway, expressway motorway highway, freeway,...

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 »
What is a saltbox roof?
What is a saltbox roof?

In its simplest form, a saltbox roof is a gable roof with asymmetrical planes, one long and one short side. The short side typically has a low...

Read More »
Should you spray water on new concrete?
Should you spray water on new concrete?

Properly curing your concrete improves strength, durability, water tightness, and resistance for many years. The first 7 days after installation...

Read More »