Screws and Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are self-explanatory. They are used to drive in and remove screws. Too often they are wrongly used - for chipping, punching holes, scraping, prying, and so forth.

The Philips head is a common screw and screwdriver. Its design reduces blade slippage from the cross-shaped slot and lends itself to driving with a power bit. The conventional screwdriver has a single blade and is used with screws of matching heads.

Screw types include the wood screw for when stronger joining than a nail is needed, or for when other materials must be fastened to wood. This screw is tapered to help draw the wood together as the screw is inserted.




Remember, when choosing screw length, that the screw should penetrate 2/3 of the combined thickness of the materials being joined. Consider as well moisture conditions and the makeup of the materials being fastened, to avoid corrosion. Use galvanized or other rust-resistant screws where rust could be a problem.

Tips on Screwdriving

  1. Lubricate screws with soap or wax for easier installation.
  3. To remove a screw with a damaged slot another slot can be cut with a hacksaw blade if the head is exposed enough.
  4. A pilot hole (usually 2 sizes smaller than the shank of the screw) should always be made before driving a screw. This is especially crucial in hardwoods or when driving a screw near the end of the board. When working with screws of larger diameter, a pilot hole of the same diameter as the shank of the screw should be drilled into the wood to a depth of 1/3 the length of the screw.